In 'Project Hail Mary', Ryland Grace, a high school science teacher, awakens on a spaceship with no memory of how he got there or his mission. He soon discovers that he is the sole survivor of a desperate mission to save Earth from a microorganism called the Astrophage, which is threatening to cause a new ice age. As Ryland regains his memories, he encounters an alien named Rocky, and together they work to solve the scientific mystery and save their respective home planets. The story blends science, humor, and heart, exploring themes of survival, discovery, and unlikely friendships[1][3][5].
In 'Altered Traits,' Daniel Goleman and Richard J. Davidson delve into the scientific research behind meditation, highlighting its ability to alter personality traits and benefit both mind and body. The book distinguishes between 'altered states' of consciousness during meditation and 'altered traits,' which are lasting psychological changes. It discusses various levels of meditation practice, from beginner to 'Olympic-level' meditators, and presents findings from over 6,000 scientific studies, focusing on those that meet high methodological standards. The authors explain how meditation can reduce stress, improve emotional health, enhance focus, and even change brain pathways, leading to more equanimity and compassion[1][4][5].
For episode 263 of the Metta Hour, we are continuing our Anxiety Series with a re-release of a conversation with Dr. Richie J. Davidson, PhD, that originally aired in 2023.
In this series, Sharon is speaking with Mental Health experts, providers, and different researchers for tools to work with anxiety in increasingly challenging times. This is the fourth episode in the series. Richie Davidson is the William James and Vilas Professor of Psychology and Psychiatry at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and the Founder and Director of the Center for Healthy Minds. He is best known for his groundbreaking work studying emotion and the brain. A friend and confidante of the Dalai Lama, he is a highly sought-after expert and speaker, leading conversations on well-being on international stages such as the World Economic Forum, where he serves on the Global Council on Mental Health.
Join Richie’s upcoming course The Science of Flourishing: Well-Being Skills for Daily Life. Save 20% off the course using the coupon code METTA20.
In this episode, Sharon and Richie discuss:
• How Richie came to this path
• Meeting Daniel Goleman and Ram Dass
• How Danny Goleman brought Sharon to her first retreat
• The term “Mental Health”
• Innate Goodness
• Believing in Growth Mindset
• A vision of possibility for ourselves
• The role of systemic oppression in mental well-being
• Intergenerational Resilience
• Richie’s four pillars of well-being
• Personal mental hygiene
• “The road to Lhasa goes up and down” - Mingyur Rinpoche
• The value of community and teachers in mental health
• Richie driving Mingyur Rinpoche
• Contemplative Neuroscience
• The Science of Flourishing Course
• Richie’s new book project
• The conversation closes with a guided meditation led by Richie.
To learn more about Riche’s work or his different books, you can visit his website and check out the Center for Healthy Minds.
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Metta Hour with Sharon Salzberg 
