The Wisdom Podcast

Cortland Dahl: Mahamudra and Daily Life (#184)

Apr 19, 2024

Scientist and meditation teacher Cortland Dahl discusses the Healthy Minds App, blending science and spirituality, integrating mindfulness into daily life, and using technology for mindfulness. They explore different forms of meditation, the power of environment in Buddhist practice, and dive into the tradition of Mahamudra with Tilopa and Naropa. The intersection of meditation and science is also explored, touching on unconditioned space, different spiritual paths, and upcoming Buddhist teachings.

01:13:26

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Episode guests

Cortland Dahl

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

The Healthy Minds app offers a holistic approach to well-being beyond mindfulness, emphasizing kindness, compassion, and wisdom based on scientific principles.

Integrating Dharma practice into daily life enables individuals to merge spiritual insights with everyday routines, fostering meaningful connections and transforming interactions.

Utilizing technology, like phone alarms and digital reminders, enhances mindfulness practices by infusing daily routines with moments of awareness and spiritual connection.

Deep dives

The Healthy Minds App and Scientific Framework

The podcast discusses the Healthy Minds app and its unique scientific framework focusing on four dimensions: awareness, connection, insight, and purpose. This app provides step-by-step training in practical skills beyond mindfulness, such as kindness, compassion, and wisdom based on scientific principles, published in a prominent scientific journal. The app offers a comprehensive approach to well-being beyond traditional mindfulness practices.

Introduction

2min

Exploring the Healthy Minds App and Well-being Dimensions

10min

Exploring Different Forms of Meditation

30min

Exploring the Power of Environment and Symbolism in Modern Buddhist Practice

3min

Exploring the Tradition of Mahamudra with Tilopa and Naropa

23min

Exploring the Concept of Unconditioned Space and Different Spiritual Paths

2min

The Intersection of Meditation and Science: Exploring Conditioned Reality and Conceptual Breakdown

2min

Upcoming Programs and Experiential Learning in Buddhist Teachings

2min

This episode of the Wisdom Podcast features Cortland Dahl. Cortland is a scientist, translator, and meditation teacher who offers workshops and leads retreats around the world. He has practiced meditation for nearly three decades, spent time on retreat in monasteries and at retreat centers throughout Japan, Burma, and India, and spent eight years living in Tibetan refugee settlements in Kathmandu, Nepal. He works as an Instructor for the Tergar community and is the Executive Director of Tergar International. In addition, Cortland serves as a Research Scientist and the Chief Contemplative Officer at UW-Madison’s Center for Healthy Minds and the center’s affiliated non-profit, Healthy Minds Innovations. Cortland is actively involved in scientific research and has published articles on the impact of meditation practices on the body, mind, and brain.

In this episode host, Daniel Aitken, and Cortland discuss:

the Healthy Minds App and Cortland’s role in its development;
the intersection of science and spirituality;
living the Dharma in daily life;
using technology for mindfulness; and
much more!

Mentioned in this episode:

Cortland’s Wisdom Dharma Chats episode;
Vajrayana Online;
The Joy of Living an online meditation course and training with Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche.

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