Mind & Life Quinn Conklin – Mind-Body Connection
Oct 17, 2024
Quinn Conklin, a health psychologist and meditation researcher, dives into the intriguing interplay between mind and body. She discusses how stress affects telomeres and aging while highlighting the role of meditation in health and well-being. The conversation spans her experiences with silent meditation retreats, the impact of personality on meditation outcomes, and the complexities of oxytocin in social connections. Quinn also reflects on adapting research during the COVID-19 pandemic and the importance of inclusivity in contemplative practices.
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Early Influences
- Quinn Conklin grew up in diverse communities, sparking her interest in how people exist in different contexts.
- Her early academic interests included biology, psychology, and the integration of mind-body interactions.
Shifting Academic Interests
- Conklin's initial interest in neuroscience waned after exploring graduate programs focused on EEG and fMRI.
- A plant research stint shaped her understanding of how organisms encode environmental information to guide behavior.
Path to Meditation Research
- Conklin's first meditation class in New Zealand provided a sense of peace during personal distress.
- A series of chance encounters and introductions led her to connect with Cliff Saron, her PhD mentor, at a contemplative studies symposium.