The Practical Neuroscience of Buddha's Brain by Rick Hanson is an accessible self-help book which combines the latest ideas from brain science with the ancient wisdom of Buddhist tradition.
As we have already noted in other articles, neuroscience is now providing evidence of our capaicity to deliberately re-shape the physical workings of our own brains.
By getting into better patterns of thinking and feeling we not only alter our habitual mental responses. We can actually bring about permanent change in the neural networks that govern our experience of the world.
What therefore is initially a deliberate or imposed change in our thinking, can in time become a natural inclination that can improve our feeling of well-being.
Some of the evidence for this new understanding of how we can change not just our minds, but our brains, has actually come from research into ways Buddhist forms of meditation influence the chemical balance of the brain.
There is a tendency discussed elsewhere on this site, to believe that 'we are as we are'; that there is not much we can do about our in-built inclinations and hang-ups. If we're afraid of spiders or awkward in social situations then that's the way we'll always be.
However, the new insights developed through scientific research suggest that by delberate intervention and repeated alternative patterning we can change the very foundations of our thinking.
Chemical Changes
But how do we go about developing these more positive and productive modes of thinking which produce the chemical changes that can transform our sense of well-being?
Rick Handson's book helps us to understand the theory behind this new view of the brain, but drawing on Buddhist traditions also provides a range of practical techniques to improve well-being and reduce anxiety, stress and negative feelings.
Ultimately his techniques aim to enhance our fulfilment in life and in our relationshisps by developing our ability to relax and to access deeper resources of calm within ourselves.
Small Things
No one is pretending that this is an overnight process; it takes concentration and commitment. An important point Rick Hanson continually reinforces, though, is the role of small things in this process. A small act of kindness or a few moments of enhanced self awareness can contribute to a cumulative process of change.
If this all sounds a bit too abstract, highfaluting, or remote from everyday concerns then don't be put off. This book is written in a clear style, broken into short sections with chapter summaries and laid out so as to highlight the practical exercises suggested.
I will certainly be integrating some of its ideas and techniques into my practices as a hypnotherapist.
JG
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