The objective of this course was to understand the differences between Buddhist philosophy and recent neuroscience findings, and more importantly, the areas in which they overlap. In this course the science behind the practice of mindfulness was investigated. Studies validating the benefits of mindfulness in improving emotional and physical wellness, social relationships, academic performance and memory were examined. Organizations incorporating mindfulness as an integral part of their operations were explored- organizations from high tech companies to public school systems.

The first 6 weeks of the class were dedicated to reading and analyzing Buddhism: A Concise Introduction Paperback by Huston Smith (Author), Philip Novak (Author). This initial reading was to introduce us to the buddhist religion/style of thought.

Following that, we read Sharon Begley’s Train Your Mind Change Your Brain. The book provided a scientific basis of neuroplasticity, or the brains potential to change. Throughout the experiments and studies highlighted in the book, the overarching theme was the extraordinary ability we have to ultimately make our lives into what we want them to be. Modern neurobiology and the wisdom of Buddhism have come together in demonstrating how each of us has the power to change our brains. Only recently have scientists come to understand that the brain changes throughout one’s life and that we are to a large degree in control of these changes. However, this is easier said than done. In order to have the power to decide what becomes of the brain, we must harness the mind; this is where meditation, an ancient Buddhist practice, comes in. In the meditative state, we have the capacity to train our minds, to be without judgment and to intentionally focus on the present moment. In doing this, we turn off our autopilot setting, reducing stress, and exercising our potential to feel compassion and fully engage in life. As supported by the scientific evidence in Begley’s book, the more we practice mindfulness, the easier it becomes. More and more people, including Senator Tim Ryan, are aiming to incorporate mindfulness into mainstream society. In his book, A Mindful Nation, (also read in class), he highlights the positive effects of mindfulness not only on the individual, but on the country as a whole. Like Tim Ryan, now that we as a class are educated on the life-changing effects of mindfulness, we feel that it is our responsibility to share our knowledge with the local Goucher community and beyond.