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The Science of Mindfulness cover art

The Science of Mindfulness

By: Ronald Siegel,The Great Courses
Narrated by: Ronald Siegel
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Summary

Ever noticed that trying to calm down often produces more agitation? That trying to change bad habits can seem impossible? Or that real fulfillment can be elusive, despite living a successful life? 

Often, such difficulties stem from the human brain's hardwired tendency to seek pleasure and avoid pain. Modern science demonstrates that this survival mechanism served the needs of our earliest ancestors, but is at the root of many problems that we face today, such as depression, compulsive and addictive behaviors, chronic pain, and stress and anxiety. 

For thousands of years, people have used mindfulness practices to deal effectively with a wide range of life challenges. But how exactly does mindfulness work, in scientific terms? How can the human brain, which gives rise to so many of our problems, actually provide a solution? 

We are now in the midst of an explosion of scientific research demonstrating that mindfulness practice changes both the function and the structure of the brain. Numerous studies show which parts of the brain are affected by mindfulness practice, and how these neurobiological changes benefit our minds and bodies. 

Now, in the 24 fascinating lectures of The Science of Mindfulness, Professor Siegel, a clinical psychologist at Harvard Medical School, reveals the science behind mindfulness in compelling detail and demonstrates its application to a wide range of issues - psychological, social, and medical. You'll examine the neurobiology underlying ancient practices that are now profoundly influencing the contemporary world. And you'll learn many practical ways you can use mindfulness techniques in your own life. 

This playful, caring course demonstrates the effectiveness of mindfulness in responding to many of humanity's fundamental existential problems. 

In addition, this audiobook has complementary soundtracks, which are included in the audiobook from chapters 25 to 29.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your My Library section along with the audio.

©2013 The Great Courses (P)2013 The Teaching Company, LLC

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What listeners say about The Science of Mindfulness

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  • Mr
  • 15-01-15

Well worth it

A fascinating introduction to the science behind mindfulness. Some sitters may be put off thinking it attempts to high jack the spiritual dimension of mindfulness. It doesn't. Instead it provides further insight into the way we are genetically predisposed to think and react in certain ways. Science is realising the Buddha was right. It's only taken them 2500 years!

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30 people found this helpful

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All you need to understanding mindfulness

Any additional comments?

As a mental health nurse, I found this book incredibly useful for my work. It helped me understand what the big deal was about mindfulness and Siegel narrates it so well that even I understood it. I am now able to explain to my patients why mindfulness is so useful to mental health and I'm able to share techniques with them, which has helped them in lots of situations such as to calm and even to resist urges to harm themselves. I want to continue using it and gain more insight as I am starting to feel that this is more effective than CBT.

It was also engaging because I was able to use it and relate it to my own life. Mindfulness and the techniques in this book has empowered me to calm down my overeating and procrastinating. I'm still working own mindfulness skills but this book has made me want to continue working on it forever!

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25 people found this helpful

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Excellent!

Would you consider the audio edition of The Science of Mindfulness to be better than the print version?

I've never tried to read this. Audio version is Great!

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Science of Mindfulness?

The listening! The knowledge attained! Priceless!

What does Professor Ronald Siegel bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you had only read the book?

Personality. Very enjoyable.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

Because I chose to listen to this book, I can actually say that the entire book moved me on a very deep level and changed my essence. It gave me a full understanding of who we are. And how to change that within us that is negative.

Any additional comments?

Very beneficial. Very educational, glad I invested the time.

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14 people found this helpful

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    5 out of 5 stars

enjoyable useful & fascinating look at mindfulness

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

yes- definitelyIt could improve a friend's quality of life; helping to deal with stress they are facing (and yes I have recommended this book to friends. It would be great if audible allowed single titles to be gifted. Or single titles to be bought without signing up for a monthly subscription, even if it is easy to cancel).

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Science of Mindfulness?

When I realised I could step back from the track that my thoughts were racing along! (helped by techniques such as slowing walking- focussing on the physical sensation of walking or breathing. As well as approaches for connecting).

Have you listened to any of Professor Ronald Siegel’s other performances? How does this one compare?

not yet- I'll have a look to see what else is available. He's very enjoyable to listen to; with a warm, enthusiastic and engaging voice.

If you made a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

Mindfulness- for a calm and clear mind

Any additional comments?

This audio book gives a broader context for mindfulness techniques; why they work; different situations for which they are particuarly relevant...I'm going to listen to this again in a few months!

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13 people found this helpful

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Incredible humanity

Wonderful introduction to the topic of mindfulness. Lovingly narrated by Professor Siegel. The guided meditations aren't specially marked, but can be found in the final chapters..

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10 people found this helpful

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Thought provoking

a very interesting course on a subject I have been looking into. there are some good and practical tips and examples of how to develop mindfulness for yourself and others.

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9 people found this helpful

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Well researched, science based approach

I have enjoyed this course as all the evidence put forward was based on real research, and it contained plenty of instruction on how mindfulness can be applied into your everyday life.

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5 people found this helpful

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  • KM
  • 24-09-15

Excellent Series

This is a great series of talks. It's an extensive overview of mindfulness from someone who has studied and observed it's effectiveness in professional practice. Prof. Siegel understands the source of mindfulness but the narrative is always educational rather than religious. His tone is light-hearted, and clear-sighted. Everything is explained plainly from every perspective imaginable so that even the most sceptical listener must appreciate the value of these techniques.

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4 people found this helpful

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deep and meaningful course

Loved course examples are well put easy to follow but with practice get deep positive results as with any self work you face challenges in course to deeper understanding but work is worth while the excerise are ones I will keep working with and I will revisit lectures when I need a helping hand in my life

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3 people found this helpful

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this is a course that will help anybody

This is very educational and rewarding I will make this part of my everyday life and the meditation practice is stream the useful and guidance given is appreciated I am most thankful for this course

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3 people found this helpful