Mind & Life Chuck Raison – Ancient Practices & Conscious Experience
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Nov 14, 2024 Chuck Raison, a psychiatrist and mental health researcher at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, explores the fascinating intersection of ancient practices and conscious experience. He discusses how Tibetan tummo practice influences mental states and body temperature. The conversation also dives into the connections between inflammation and depression, the powerful placebo effect, and the potential for psychedelics in therapy. Raison emphasizes the importance of awareness and the role of memory in transcendent experiences, shedding light on innovative approaches to mental health.
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Tummo and the Goat
- Chuck Raison's interest in consciousness led him to explore Tibetan Buddhist practices, particularly Tummo.
- Attempts to study Tummo monks were thwarted by an abbot's parable about a goat going blind, symbolizing the potential dangers of the practice.
Sickness Behavior and Depression
- Inflammation and stress trigger similar physiological responses, like fever, fatigue, and reduced interest in pleasurable activities.
- This "sickness behavior" is an evolved response to infection, promoting rest and recovery.
Stress, Inflammation, and the Modern World
- Psychological stress activates inflammation as a preemptive measure against potential wounding during fight-or-flight situations.
- In the modern world, chronic psychological stress without physical injury can lead to long-term health issues due to sustained inflammation.