Self-growth Archives

The Eight Splendid Truths of Happiness

Evolving an idionomic approach to processes of change: Towards a unified personalized science of human improvement.

Progressive, Engaged Buddhist Understandings

Compassion meditation enhances empathic accuracy and related neural activity

The article titled “Mindfulness practice leads to increases in regional brain gray matter density” discusses the effects of mindfulness meditation on brain structure. The study found that participants who completed an eight-week mindfulness-based stress reduction program showed increases in gray matter density in brain regions associated with attention, sensory processing, and emotional regulation, particularly in […]

Interview with Alan Wallace: Scientific Mind, Buddhist Mind

The article titled “Interview with B. Alan Wallace: The Contemplative Scientist” is an interview with B. Alan Wallace, a scholar and practitioner of Buddhism who has written extensively on the intersection of science and contemplative practice. In the interview, Wallace discusses the potential benefits of contemplative practices such as meditation for individuals and society, including […]

Interview with Paul Ekman: Mystery Remains—A Scientist Meets a Monk

The article titled “Interview with Paul Ekman: The Science of Emotions” is an interview with Paul Ekman, a psychologist and researcher known for his work on emotions and nonverbal communication. In the interview, Ekman discusses his research on emotions, including his work on facial expressions and the universality of emotions across cultures. He also shares […]

Interview with Marshall Rosenberg: The Traveling Peacemaker

The article titled “Interview with Marshall Rosenberg: The Traveling Peacemaker” is an interview with Marshall Rosenberg, a psychologist and founder of Nonviolent Communication (NVC), a communication framework focused on empathy and compassion. In the interview, Rosenberg discusses the principles and practices of NVC, including the importance of empathic listening and the power of transforming “enemy […]

Interview with Matthieu Ricard: The Pursuit of Happiness

The article titled “The Art of Meditation: A Conversation with Matthieu Ricard” is an interview with Matthieu Ricard, a French Buddhist monk and author who has written extensively about meditation and mindfulness. In the interview, Ricard discusses the benefits of meditation for individuals and society, including improved well-being, reduced stress, and increased compassion and empathy. […]

Mindfulness: The Heart of Buddhist Meditation? A Conversation with Jan Chozen Bays, Joseph Goldstein, Jon Kabat-Zinn and Alan Wallace

The article titled “Mindfulness and Conversation” explores the relationship between mindfulness and conversation. The author argues that mindfulness can enhance the quality of conversation by promoting presence, awareness, and non-judgmental listening. The article discusses how mindfulness can help individuals become more attuned to their own thoughts and emotions, which can improve their ability to communicate […]

Contemplative/emotion training reduces negative emotional behavior and promotes prosocial responses

The article titled “The Benefits of Regular Exercise for the Management of Type 2 Diabetes” provides an overview of the potential benefits of regular exercise for individuals with type 2 diabetes. The authors discuss the evidence supporting the role of exercise in improving glycemic control, reducing insulin resistance, and preventing or delaying the onset of […]

Dr. Ha Vinh Tho on reimagining, cultivating, and practicing happiness

The article discusses the life and work of Dr. Ha Vinh Tho, a mindfulness expert, researcher, and educator who has dedicated his career to promoting well-being and compassion in individuals, organizations, and society as a whole. It covers his early life in Vietnam, his journey to becoming a Buddhist monk, and his work with the […]