10% Happier with Dan Harris Can Meditation Improve Politics? Chris Ruane and Jamie Bristow
Jun 12, 2019
Chris Ruane, a British MP since 1997, and Jamie Bristow, Director of The Mindfulness Initiative, discuss the integration of mindfulness in politics. They reveal how mindfulness training has transformed interactions in the UK Parliament, fostering decorum and understanding among legislators. Ruane shares personal stories of its impact on decision-making and political discourse. They highlight the need for mindfulness to tackle societal issues and contrast intrinsic vs. extrinsic values, advocating for a shift toward deeper human connections in political systems.
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Chris Ruane's Mindfulness Journey
- Chris Ruane, a Welsh MP, began meditating 32 years ago after learning relaxation techniques during a stressful school inspection.
- He later discovered mindfulness and listened to hundreds of podcasts from Spirit Rock, ultimately bringing mindfulness to the UK Parliament.
Jamie Bristow's Path to Mindfulness Initiative
- Jamie Bristow, initially an advertiser, rediscovered meditation to cope with stress and later worked at Headspace.
- He became involved with the Mindfulness Initiative after volunteering with the parliamentary mindfulness group, eventually becoming its director.
Mindfulness in Parliament: Initial Reactions and Recruitment
- Despite initial skepticism, 250 parliamentarians and 350 staff members received mindfulness training.
- Ruane tailored his approach based on individual needs, emphasizing stress reduction, personal growth, or policy relevance.
