num_pages: 352
description: By the longtime Guardian science journalist a groundbreaking exploration of the science of enlightenment and mental wellness illuminated by twin perspectives ancient and the spiritual wisdom of Siddhartha Gautama and the revelations of todays scientists who are confirming the Buddhas profound insights into the human mind In the fifth century BCE in northern India Siddhartha the wandering sage who became the Buddha developed a program rooted in meditation and mindfulness for mastering the mind and achieving lasting peace and contentment. Twenty-five centuries later humans have transformed everything about our worldexcept our brains which remain the same powerful yet flawed instruments possessed by our ancestors. What if the solution we seek to the psychological problems of life in the digital agedistraction anxiety addiction loss of deep meaninghad already been worked out by the Buddha in ancient India? Appealing to readers of Eastern wisdom and Jon Kabat-Zinn as well as to fans of bestsellers by Oliver Sacks and Malcolm Gladwell acclaimed science writer and practicing Buddhist James Kingsland reveals how scientists are now unlocking the remarkable secrets of Siddharthas brain. Moving effortlessly between science and scripture Kingsland charts Siddharthas spiritual journey and explains how new research by leading neuroscientists and clinical psychologistsmany of whom are interviewed in these pagessuggests that mindfulness practice reconfigures our brains to make us sharper smarter healthier and happier and that it can help treat stress anxiety depression chronic pain hypertension and substance abuse. There have even been hints that meditation can enhance immune function slow cellular aging and keep dementia at bay. Featuring six guided meditations Siddharthas Brain is a practical and inspiring odyssey of mind and spirit. Our life is shaped by our mind; we become what we think.Siddhartha
language: English
title: Siddhartha's Brain: Unlocking the Ancient Science of Enlightenment
publisher: Mariner Books