Jyoti Mishra – Mindfulness and Climate Trauma

Jyoti Mishra – Mindfulness and Climate Trauma

Author: Mind & Life Institute April 18, 2024 Duration: 1:02:02
In this episode, Wendy speaks with neuroscientist and mental health researcher Jyoti Mishra. Jyoti has been investigating how mindfulness and attention training affect our brains, and can help in the context of mental health challenges related to climate disasters and other trauma. This conversation covers many topics, including: her intertwined interests in neuroscience, meditation, and mental health; understanding climate trauma and its unique impacts on mental health; community resilience and action in the face of disaster; the rise of mental health issues worldwide; studying the mental health and brain function impacts of the deadliest fire in CA history; healing broken relationships with nature through mindfulness and ecotherapy; social justice issues around climate vulnerability; how childhood adversity affects brain circuitry for emotional awareness; developing contemplative tech interventions for disadvantaged youth, and impacts on brain and daily life functioning; nature and the sense of self; regulating the stress response through mindfulness and social connection; and empowering youth through the Climate Change & Mental Health Initiative. 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: 90

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