Becoming conscious: the science of mindfulness

Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2013 Nov:1303:87-104. doi: 10.1111/nyas.12203.

Abstract

Many of us go through our daily lives on autopilot, not fully aware of our conscious experiences. In a discussion moderated by Steve Paulson, executive producer and host of To the Best of Our Knowledge, neuroscientists Richard Davidson and Amishi Jha and clinical mindfulness expert Jon Kabat-Zinn explore the role of consciousness in mental and physical health, how we can train our minds to be more flexible and adaptable, and cutting-edge neuroscience findings about the transformation of consciousness through mindfulness and contemplative practice. The following is an edited transcript of the discussion that occurred February 6, 2013, 7:00-8:15 PM, at the New York Academy of Sciences in New York City.

Keywords: consciousness; contemplation; experience; meditation; mindfulness.

MeSH terms

  • Brain / physiology
  • Consciousness / physiology*
  • Happiness
  • Humans
  • Meditation / psychology
  • Mindfulness*
  • Neurosciences / methods
  • Psychophysiology
  • Spirituality
  • Stress, Psychological