About this episode
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 and psychologist and researcher, Dr. David Vago, discuss the neuroscience of awakening. 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. 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. Dr. David Vago: As a Research Associate Professor of Psychology at Vanderbilt University, Dr. David Vago 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. David's Site: https://davidvago.bwh.harvard.edu/ International Society for Contemplative Research (ISCR) - https://www.contemplativeneurosciences.com/ Related: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3480633/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29169033/ For more info about Loch, visit: https://lochkelly.org/ For additional information about this podcast, visit: https://podcast.effortlessmindfulness.com/ For the Loch Kelly App, visit: https://effortlessmindfulness.com and to donate, visit: https://lochkelly.org/donate. You can now explore all of Loch Kelly’s practices and teachings on the new Mindful Glimpses app, found at https://lochkelly.org/mindful-glimpses . This innovative meditation and wellness app offers daily micro-meditations, step-by-step programs, and simple-yet-advanced tools for awakening. EM+IFS Training If you want to explore today's topic in more depth, shifting from small self to authentic Self, please check out the Effortless Mindfulness and IFS training program . Loch Kelly Bio Loch is the creator of the Mindful Glimpses app , and an award-winning author, psychotherapist, and nondual meditation teacher. He is also 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, which combines an ancient form of nondual meditation and IFS psychology that allows immediate access to our embodied awake nature which arises as our calm, clear, and compassionate healing capacity. Connect with Loch: Mobile App: https://lochkelly.org/mindful-glimpses Website: https://lochkelly.org/ ...