While I do believe in the power of integrative medicine, I am still a scientist at heart. I don’t recommend and form of treatment until I’ve thoroughly investigated it myself. I introduced the concept of mindfulness last week. Now it’s time to delve in deeper. Once again, I’m turning to a video lecture series offered by The Great Courses called The Science of Mindfulness: A Research-Based Path to Well-Being. Ronald D. Siegel, Psy.D., is an Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School/Cambridge Health Alliance. In this series of twenty-four, thirty minute lectures Dr. Siegel examines the science of mindfulness as it relates to the following issues:
Why mindfulness matters
Our troublesome brains
Informal, formal, and intensive practices
Who am i? the perils of self
Mindfulness or psychotherapy?
Attention and empathy in relationships
The science of compassion and self-compassion
Tailoring practices to fit changing needs
Modifying our brain function and structure
Solitude—an antidote to loneliness
Connecting with children and adolescents
Seeing sadness and depression in a new light
Befriending fear, worry, and anxiety
Transforming chronic pain
Placebos, illness, and the power of belief
Interrupting addiction and troublesome habits
Overcoming traumas large and small
Groundbreaking mindfulness programs
The neurobiology of self-preoccupation
Growing up isn’t easy—facing impermanence
Toward a science of wisdom
The promise of enlightenment
Mindful ethics as a path to freedom
The new science of happiness
Again, this lecture series is available for purchase from The Great Courses and for rent from numerous libraries.