Product Description
In this fascinating and far-reaching book, Newsweek science writer Sharon Begley reports on how cutting-edge science and the ancient wisdom of Buddhism have come together to reveal that, contrary to popular belief, we have the power to literally change our brains by changing our minds. Recent pioneering experiments in neuroplasticity–the ability of the brain to change in response to experience–reveal that the brain is capable of altering its structure and function, and even of generating new neurons, a power we retain well into old age. The brain can adapt, heal, renew itself after trauma, compensate for disabilities, rewire itself to overcome dyslexia, and break cycles of depression and OCD. And as scientists are learning from studies performed on Buddhist monks, it is not only the outside world that can change the brain, so can the mind and, in particular, focused attention through the classic Buddhist practice of mindfulness.

With her gift for making science accessible, meaningful, and compelling, Sharon Begley illuminates a profound shift in our understanding of how the brain and the mind interact and takes us to the leading edge of a revolution in what it means to be human.

“There are two great things about this book. One is that it shows us how nothing about our brains is set in stone. The other is that it is written by Sharon Begley, one of the best science writers around. Begley is superb at framing the latest facts within the larger context of the field. . . . This is a terrific book.”
–Robert M. Sapolsky, author of Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers

“Excellent . . . elegant and lucid prose . . . an open mind here will be rewarded.”
–Discover magazine

“A strong dose of hope along with a strong does of science and Buddhist thought.”
–The San Diego Union-Tribune

CUSTOMER REVIEWS (Average Customer Rating: 4.0 based on 85 reviews)

we see what we pay attention to... by Focus! (south-central TX)

5 Stars
June 05, 2009
I found this to be a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of some ideas in Buddhist psychology/philosophy and Western research into similar and related ideas. Goleman's book, Destructive Emotions, is also good, but I think Begley's much more accessible to a thinking public not well-versed in the field(s). The ancient Hindu sages were the ground out of which a great deal of the Buddhist thinking arose. Current scientific research is, IMO, relearning a great deal of what was known experientially a loooong time ago.

A careful read also may prompt a thoughtful reader to try out for themselves some of the intriguing possibilities and probabilities contained here. What we pay attention to really does color and shape our view of the world...try it.

For those who would like a "manual" or "road map" to help put much of these principles into practice, I would suggest considering Eknath Easwaran's book Passage Meditation, and further, his three-volume commentary on the Bhagavad Gita. He was an English Lit professor -- engaging reads, and very helpful.

Enjoy!

Fascinating read. by Claudia M. Mayer (Jersey City, NJ)

4 Stars
June 03, 2009
This book has the most misleading title. The title makes it sound like it is going to be a self help book. Thankfully I knew it was not when I bought it. Had I not, it would have been very frustrated when reading it.

THe content of the book is very interesting and the author gives you enough background of neurological science to make the studies she discusses make sense in the context of the subject without overwhelming you. Also interesting is the discussion between what western science is confirming and what Buddists believe. Sometimes these ideas converge, and sometimes not, especially in the case of attachment.

A solid read on a subject I did not expect to enjoy so much!!!

Fast shipping by Sir Charles (Indiana, PA)

4 Stars
May 25, 2009
Had to read it for a class. Got it in time. Did not like the book but it is what it is. Thanks.

Great Book by music lover

5 Stars
May 24, 2009
I felt empowered by this book. It was written clearly, was easy to read. The informtion in it and the bringing together of the science of brain plasticity and the potential for us to grow and heal ourselves is a gift.

Train your mind, change your brain by Kristen L. Hedene

5 Stars
May 22, 2009
This CD has amazing info both scientific & meditative. It is difficult to listen to the descriptions of some of the scientific experiments though. Well worth listening to.

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