Jud Brewer - Changing Habits

Jud Brewer - Changing Habits

Author: Mind & Life Institute March 11, 2022 Duration: 1:02:37
In this episode, Wendy speaks with addiction psychiatrist and contemplative researcher Jud Brewer. Jud is one of the leading figures in the use of mindfulness for addiction and anxiety, and his work emphasizes the brain's habit cycle, and how to change it. He's also developed a number of smartphone apps to deliver contemplative interventions widely, which research is finding to be highly successful. This conversation covers many topics, including: his own use of meditation to relieve stress, and where that led; the failure of willpower for treating addictions; the benefits and downsides of the brain's habit mechanisms; commonalities between Buddhist philosophy and modern psychology; the key role of awareness in changing habits; the basic "habit loop" (trigger - behavior - result); anxiety as a habit; mindfulness for habit change; divisiveness as a bad habit; research on the effectiveness of app-based interventions; next steps for digital therapeutics; insights on communicating science to the public; and the power of kindness and connection as the ultimate reward. Full show notes and resources  

At the heart of Mind & Life is a simple, profound question: what is a mind, really? This isn't just a philosophical puzzle but a practical exploration of the mental habits that define our days. The conversations hosted by the Mind & Life Institute gently dismantle the walls between disciplines, weaving together insights from neuroscience and psychology with the lived wisdom of contemplative traditions. You’ll hear dialogues that feel less like interviews and more like shared discoveries, where a philosopher and a meditation teacher might find common ground on how attention works, or where a scientist discusses the social impact of compassion training. Each episode is an invitation to look inward with curiosity, examining how practices like meditation aren't about escape but about engaging with our inner world more skillfully. This podcast operates from the conviction that understanding our own minds is foundational to addressing broader cultural and societal challenges. It’s for anyone who has ever wondered about the mechanics of their own thoughts and emotions and sought a deeper, evidence-informed conversation about transformation. Tune in for a thoughtful blend of rigorous inquiry and personal relevance, where ancient questions meet modern investigation.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 94

Mind & Life
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