Using Neuroscience to Manifest a Kinder, Better World | Dr. James Doty

May 15, 2024

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For decades the practice of manifestation has been widely dismissed as self-involved, materialistic pseudoscience.

Today, neuroscientist and founder of the Center for Compassion at Stanford, Dr. James Doty is back on the podcast for the 3rd time.

This time to discuss what he calls an antithesis to this popular narrative around manifestation, which narrowly emphasizes outward success and individual benefit.

During our conversation, and in his new book: Mind Magic The Neuroscience of Manifestation and How it Changes Everything, he will invite us into a deep conversation about how our brains work, and what happens when we pair their full power with the intention for a kinder, better world.

What I appreciated so much about this book, and the work Dr. Doty has done over his career is that he continues to offer evidence-based practices that can change the structure of our brains by harnessing the power of attention, meditation, visualization, and compassion.

He argues that over time and with dedication they can support us in moving through the world in ways that help us see clearly—reclaiming our agency, realizing our dreams, and reaching out to help others along the path.

In today's episode James will share:

Why it’s important to reflect on what you have been manifesting in your life already (as a starting point).
Ways to shift what you’re manifesting if you’re not finding the fulfillment and meaning you've been yearning for.
Some of his story of learning to manifest, including how and why his initial way of practicing, which yielded a lot of material success, ultimately left him feeling empty and unfulfilled.
Insight into manifesting with an open heart and practices that support doing so.
Highlights from the neuroscience of manifestation including why cultivating calm and setting a compassionate intention lead to our brain networks working at their full potential.
Insight about ways to work with mental barriers that can arise in the manifestation process such as fear, shame, and doubt.
How childhood experiences can influence our ability to practice manifestation
Why manifestation isn’t a quick fix, and why it’s important to start small
A brief guided practice for manifestation.

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More about James:

James R. Doty, MD, is a neurosurgeon, neuroscientist, adjunct professor at Stanford University, and the director of the Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE). He serves on the board of a number of nonprofits and is the former chairman of the Dalai Lama Foundation. He is the host of the Into the Magic Shop podcast, which is also the title of his beloved and bestselling first book. His new book titled Mind Magic: The Neuroscience of Manifestation and How It Changes Everything is out now. You can find it wherever books are sold. For more, please visit jamesrdotymd.com.

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