What happens in the brain in the midst of meditation? Modern science is revealing a whole new world of inner understanding. In this episode, Loch discusses the neuroscience of awakening with psychologist and contemplative neuroscience researcher Dr. David Vago. From both ancient and modern points of view they explore the relationship between brain networks and awareness, particularly interconnected nondual states. They discuss the system-wide effects of mindfulness on mental health and well-being, and dig into some interesting dialogue about the illusion of self-identity, and various flow states. After the discussion, stay tuned for a mindful glimpse meditation where you can experience awareness energy yourself.
At 1:13:57 there is a guided glimpse meditation: Effortless Focus. In this 8-minute guided meditation, you are invited to discover the view from the field of awareness energy. When we are looking from this interconnected field of awake consciousness we can focus effortlessly, and feel the unity of everything.
You can now explore all of Loch Kelly’s practices and teachings on the new Mindful Glimpses app. This innovative meditation and wellness app offers daily micro-meditations, step by step programs, and simple-yet-advanced tools for awakening.
Dr. David Vago is a Research Associate Professor of Psychology at Vanderbilt University and directs the Contemplative Neuroscience & Mind-Body Research Laboratory. He also maintains an appointment as a research associate in the department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School. Dr. Vago has over 15 years experience studying the basic neurobiological mechanisms supporting Mind-Body practices and the effects on mental health and well-being. A number of his ongoing research initiatives include Mapping the Meditative Mind, in which Dr. Vago has partnered with contemporary meditation teachers and scholars to investigate psychosocial and neurobiological mechanisms supporting states of meditation across the spectrum of formal meditative expertise.
Connect with Dr. David Vago:
Website: https://davidvago.bwh.harvard.edu/
International Society for Contemplative Research (ISCR): https://www.contemplativeneuroscience…
Studies referenced in this episode:
Mapping complex mind states: EEG neural substrates of meditative unified compassionate awareness Self-awareness, self-regulation, and self-transcendence (S-ART): a framework for understanding the neurobiological mechanisms of mindfulness
Loch Kelly is the creator of the Mindful Glimpses app, award winning author, psychotherapist, and meditation teacher known for his unique practical methods that support awakening as the next natural stage of human development. Backed by modern neuroscience and psychology, Loch introduces Effortless Mindfulness, an ancient form of nondual meditation that allows immediate access to our embodied awake nature which arises as calm, clarity, and compassion.
Connect with Loch:
Mobile App: https://lochkelly.org/loch-kelly-mind…
Website: https://lochkelly.org
Donate: https://lochkelly.org/donate
