Psychologist Zindel Segal and neuroscientist Norman Farb discuss their new book 'Better in Every Sense' with Sharon Salzberg. They explore sense foraging, the Default Mode Network, and the importance of equanimity in the Sensory Network. Topics include solving problems through sensory experiences, developing empathy, and a meditation breathing practice led by Zindel.
Equanimity is crucial for spiritual growth and acts as a balancing wisdom factor.
Resilience is linked to 'sensing brains' that retain sensory experiences, aiding in emotional strength.
The sensory network allows for breaking habitual patterns, fostering emotional understanding and resilience.
Deep dives
Understanding Equanimity in the Balance of Wisdom
Equanimity, as explained in the podcast episode, is discussed as a balancing factor born of wisdom essential in spiritual practice. The podcast introduces a 10-day online course on equanimity offered by Sharon Salzberg from June 19th and highlights the significance of this course in enhancing spiritual growth.
Exploring the Impact of Sense Foraging on Resilience
The podcast delves into the concept of sense foraging, emphasizing the intentional shift from thinking to sensing with receptivity to the sensory world and a willingness to be surprised. Resilient individuals are identified as having 'sensing brains' that positively impact their ability to retain sensory experiences when feeling sad, leading to improved resilience over time.
The Role of Sensory Network in Breaking Habitual Patterns
A crucial aspect discussed is the role of the sensory network in breaking away from habitual patterns and engaging with emotions. It is highlighted that the sensory experience differs from conceptual interpretations, allowing individuals to immerse themselves in the sensory world with receptivity and surprise, fostering a deeper understanding of emotional responses and aiding in resilience building.
Interoception and Its Influence on Empathy
The podcast touches upon the concept of interoception, the awareness of internal body sensations, and its potential relationship with empathy. By focusing on internal sensations, individuals can tap into the core of their emotions, fostering empathy towards others and self-awareness. Interoception is discussed as a pivotal sensory element influencing emotional connections and responses.
Practical Sense Foraging Techniques for Enhanced Well-Being
Practical sense foraging techniques are introduced, including activities like connecting with nature, exploring art, engaging in travel, and considering psychedelics as ways to enhance receptivity and surprise towards sensory experiences. These accessible practices aim to deepen emotional connections, promote resilience, and facilitate a holistic understanding of internal and external sensations.
Zindel is a Distinguished Professor of Psychology in Mood Disorders, University of Toronto Scarborough. He is a clinical psychologist whose research examines the use of mindfulness meditation in promoting affect regulation skills in people suffering from a depressive and anxiety based disorder. Norm is an Associate Professor, University of Toronto Mississauga and studies the social neuroscience of the self and human emotion, with a focus on how biases in self-representation shape emotional reactions that determine well-being.
In this episode, Sharon, Zindel and Norm discuss:
How Norm came to this work
What inspired the new book, Better in Every Sense
Why people are languishing
The Default Mode Network versus Sensory Network
The positives of the “house of habit,” aka DMN
“Breaking Frame” to solve problems
Sense Foraging: shifting from thinking to sensing
The three steps in Sense Foraging
The role of equanimity in the Sensory Network
How Interoception relates to empathy
The conversation closes with a meditation breathing practice led by Zindel. You can learn more about Zindel and Norm’s book Better in Every Sense, right here. You can also check out Zindel’s first appearance on the Metta Hour Podcast from 2020 in Episode 144.
