How Meditation Changes the Brain: Neuroscience in Buddhism

A collaboration between Jamyang London Buddhist Centre and Science & Wisdom LIVE.

In partnership with Istituto Lama Tzong Khapa 

—-

Scientific research on meditation has often focused on mindfulness-based interventions, but there are many other techniques to support the cultivation of meaning and happiness in our lives. In this event, we will move beyond mindfulness and explore how applying contemplative practices in the field of neuroscience can increase our resilience, growth, harmony, well-being and neuroplasticity.

Speakers

Vanessa Zuisei Goddard, Dr. Juan Santoyo, Dr. Ekaterina Denkova, Geshe Tenzin Namdak.

How to Join?

Book your ticket on Eventbrite

How Meditation Changes the Brain

Neuroscience in Buddhism is led by the esteemed Buddhist scholars Geshe Tenzin Namdak and Vanessa Zuisei Goddard and distinguished contemplative neuroscientists Dr. Juan Santoyo and Dr. Ekaterina Denkova. These teachers will guide you through the various ways that meditation influences the brain, enhances our focus, allows us to release ingrained patterns and promotes collective well-being. We look forward to sharing this powerful learning experience with you.

Some themes we will explore

• The impact of stress on the brain’s ability to grow and learn
• Mind-training techniques to promote health, resilience, and well-being
• Attitudes and emotions affecting the development of our brains and minds
• Using contemplative practices and science to foster collective healing, equality, and justice
• Reconnecting with nature and exploring indigenous practices
• New developments in neuroscience and its applications to Buddhist practices

Neuroscience and Meditation

Neuroplasticity is the adaptive process whereby the brain re-wires itself in response to thoughts, behaviours and experiences. Due to this phenomenon, destructive emotions and negative experiences—like trauma, bias and addiction—can become deeply embedded in our neural circuits, adversely affecting our well-being and daily life. The negative emotions and stress that we hold onto can stunt the growth of our brains, impacting our ability to learn and evolve.

Fortunately, the opposite is also true; positive thoughts and habits can transform our minds, and lives, for the better. But how do you begin addressing these deep-rooted traumas and negative emotions? How do you fundamentally shift your perspective to one that benefits not only you but society as a whole?

This is where meditation and mind-training techniques come in. There are many practices and tools—beyond mindfulness—that we can use to break free of old patterns, create virtuous new habits, and increase neuroplasticity. By leveraging scientific research and contemplative practices, we can promote collective healing, equality and justice in our world, as well as improve our own health, resilience and wellness.

Schedule

Please note: all sessions are shown in London BST time

Session #1

• 16:00-16:40 Vanessa Zuisei Goddard – Talk & Guided Meditation
• 16:40-17:20 Dr. Juan Santoyo – Talk
• 17:20-18:00 Joint Q&A with Zuisei Goddard and Dr. Santoyo. Session moderated by Matt McArthur.
•  18:00-19:00 Break

Session #2

• 19:00-19:40 Dr. Ekaterina Denkova – Talk
• 19:40-20:20 – Geshe Tenzin Namdak- Talk
• 20:20-21:00 – Joint Q&A with Dr. Ekaterina Denkova and Geshe Namdak

 

Event Organiser

A collaboration between Jamyang London Buddhist Centre and Science & Wisdom LIVE.

In partnership with Istituto Lama Tzong Khapa 

How to Join?

Book your ticket on Eventbrite