Joseph Goldstein, primary figure in the development of the Insight Meditation movement, discusses the cross-pollination of Buddhist meditation with scientific investigation. He shares recent studies he contributed to, research possibilities for scientists, and his idea for a 'virtual bardo machine'. The podcast also explores different approaches to Buddhist meditation, the power of meditation, the intersection of science and mindfulness, and technologies for spiritual practice.
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Quick takeaways
There are different approaches to meditation - bottom-up and top-down - which complement each other rather than conflicting.
The dialogue between neuroscience and Buddhist contemplative practices is growing, with studies showing that meditation can improve attention and activate areas of the brain associated with compassion.
Deep dives
Immersive Trainings led by Buddhist Geeks Teachers
Buddhist Geeks is offering two new immersive trainings. The first training on pragmatic Dharma is led by Vince Horn and Kenneth Folk, meeting weekly to focus on contemplative excellence and its development. The second training on realization process, led by Ryan Olke, meets twice weekly and focuses on embodied non-dual awakening. Both trainings provide guided practice sessions.
Bottom Up and Swooping From Above Approaches to Practice
There are different approaches to meditation. The bottom-up approach emphasizes becoming mindful and connected to our actual experience, while the top-down or swooping from above approach points directly to the absolute nature of the mind. The speaker argues that these approaches complement each other rather than conflicting.
Convergence of Science and Buddhism
The dialogue between scientific neuroscience and Buddhist contemplative practices is growing. Scientists are attending meditation retreats and conducting experiments to study the effects of meditation on the brain. The results have shown that meditation can improve attention and activate areas of the brain associated with compassion. These findings contribute to the affirmation of meditation's benefits and the possibility of developing technologies that aid in cultivating awareness.
Joseph Goldstein–one of the primary figures in the development of the Insight Meditation movement–finishes up his conversation with us by sharing his perspective on the recent cross-pollunation of the Buddhist meditation with scientific investigation. He shares some of the recent studies that he has contributed to–including an in-depth study at the Insight Meditation Society–and also discusses a few research possibilities that he has recommended to scientists. Finally he shares an interesting idea he had for creating a “virtual bardo machine.”
This is part 2 of a two-part series. Listen to part 1, Joseph Goldstein on the Benefits of Long Term Practice.
Episode Links:
Mind and Life Institute ( http://www.mindandlife.org )
One Dharma: The Emerging Western Buddhism ( bit.ly/kELk5 )
Insight Meditation Society ( www.dharma.og )
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