Mindfulness and meditation - Meditation and Brain Connectivity: A Path to Mental Clarity

Contemplating Mindfulness at Work: An Integrative ReviewIn this episode, Dr. Jud Brewer and his colleagues explore the growing impact of mindfulness in the workplace. As organizations like Google, Aetna, and the U.S. Army integrate mindfulness programs, research is uncovering how mindfulness enhances attention, emotional regulation, decision-making, and resilience. This study presents a comprehensive framework linking mindfulness to key workplace outcomes, including performance, leadership, teamwork, and employee well-being. Whether you’re a leader, employee, or researcher, tune in to discover how mindfulness is reshaping the way we work, manage stress, and cultivate healthier workplace cultures.Full Reference:Good, D. J., Lyddy, C. J., Glomb, T. M., Bono, J. E., Brown, K. W., Duffy, M. K., Baer, R. A., Brewer, J. A., & Lazar, S. W. (2015). Contemplating Mindfulness at Work: An Integrative Review. Journal of Management, 20(XX), 1–29. https://doi.org/10.1177/0149206315617003Let's connect on Instagram

Feasibility of a Smartphone App with Mindfulness Training for Adolescent Smoking Cessation: Craving to Quit (C2Q)-TeenIn this episode, Dr. Jud highlights a groundbreaking pilot study that examines the feasibility of a mindfulness-based smoking cessation app tailored for teenagers. Based on the paper Feasibility of a Smartphone App with Mindfulness Training for Adolescent Smoking Cessation: Craving to Quit (C2Q)-Teen by Lori Pbert et al., the episode delves into how mindfulness helps teens recognize and manage cravings. Despite similar abstinence rates across the app, a non-mindfulness app, and written materials, the Craving to Quit app stood out for reducing cigarette consumption in adolescents who continued to smoke. Dr. Jud explores the implications of these findings and the potential of app-based mindfulness interventions to provide accessible and impactful smoking cessation tools for adolescents.Reference:Pbert, L., Druker, S., Crawford, S., Frisard, C., Trivedi, M., Osganian, S. K., & Brewer, J. Feasibility of a Smartphone App with Mindfulness Training for Adolescent Smoking Cessation: Craving to Quit (C2Q)-Teen. Mindfulness. 2019. DOI: 10.1007/s12671-019-01273-wLet's connect on Instagram

What Defines Mindfulness-Based Programs? The Warp and the Weft explores the essential and flexible elements of mindfulness-based programs (MBPs) such as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). In this episode, Dr. Jud Brewer and colleagues discuss their framework for defining MBPs, distinguishing between core components (the “warp”) and adaptable elements (the “weft”). The paper outlines the key characteristics of MBPs, including their scientific and contemplative foundations, structured meditation practices, and the role of the teacher in maintaining program integrity. Tune in to gain clarity on what makes a mindfulness program truly evidence-based and how these programs can be effectively implemented across diverse settings.Reference:Crane RS, Brewer JA, Feldman C, Kabat-Zinn J, Santorelli S, Williams JMG, Kuyken W. What Defines Mindfulness-Based Programs? The Warp and the Weft. Psychological Medicine. 2017;47(6):990–999. doi:10.1017/S0033291716003317Let's connect on Instagram

Craving to Quit: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Smartphone App–Based Mindfulness Training for Smoking CessationIn this episode, Dr. Jud discusses the results of a pioneering randomized controlled trial on the efficacy of the Craving to Quit app for mindfulness-based smoking cessation. Drawing from the paper Craving to Quit: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Smartphone App–Based Mindfulness Training for Smoking Cessation, by Kathleen Garrison et al., the episode unpacks the impact of app-based mindfulness training on cravings and smoking behavior. While the app did not outperform controls in long-term abstinence, it demonstrated a promising ability to weaken the association between cravings and smoking. Dr. Jud explores the implications of these findings, emphasizing how leveraging mindfulness through technology offers a scalable, accessible option for tackling smoking addiction.Reference:Garrison, K. A., Pal, P., O’Malley, S. S., Pittman, B. P., Gueorguieva, R., Rojiani, R., Scheinost, D., Dallery, J., Brewer, J. A. Craving to Quit: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Smartphone App–Based Mindfulness Training for Smoking Cessation. Nicotine & Tobacco Research, 2018. https://doi.org/10.1093/ntr/nty126Let's connect on Instagram

Meditation is Associated with Increased Brain Network Integration explores how mindfulness meditation enhances brain connectivity. In this episode, Dr. Jud Brewer and his colleagues discuss their EEG-based study comparing novice and experienced meditators. Their findings reveal that experienced meditators exhibit significantly higher brain network integration in the alpha frequency band, suggesting improved information exchange between brain regions. These results provide key insights into how meditation may foster cognitive resilience and enhance mental well-being. Join us as we break down the neuroscience behind meditation and its transformative effects on the brain.Reference:van Lutterveld R, van Dellen E, Pal P, Yang H, Stam CJ, Brewer JA. Meditation is associated with increased brain network integration. NeuroImage. 2017;158:18-25. doi:10.1016/j.neuroimage.2017.06.071Let's connect on Instagram

Craving to Quit: Psychological Models and Neurobiological Mechanisms of Mindfulness Training as Treatment for AddictionsIn this episode, Dr. Jud explores the intricate relationship between psychological models, neurobiological mechanisms, and mindfulness training in treating addictions, as detailed in the paper Craving to Quit: Psychological Models and Neurobiological Mechanisms of Mindfulness Training as Treatment for Addictions by Judson A. Brewer, Hani M. Elwafi, and Jake H. Davis. Learn how mindfulness disrupts the addictive loop by targeting craving at its core, reshaping habits, and promoting long-term behavioral change. Dr. Jud also highlights the convergence of ancient Buddhist insights and modern neuroscience, offering a fresh perspective on managing addictions like smoking and substance use disorders. Join us to uncover innovative approaches to dismantling harmful habits and improving lives.Reference:Brewer, J. A., Elwafi, H. M., & Davis, J. H. Craving to Quit: Psychological Models and Neurobiological Mechanisms of Mindfulness Training as Treatment for Addictions. Psychology of Addictive Behaviors, 2012.Let's connect on Instagram

Mindfulness and Behavior Change explores how mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) support sustainable health behavior change. In this episode, Dr. Jud Brewer and colleagues examine the neuroscience behind mindfulness, emphasizing motivation, learning, self-regulation, and habit formation. The study presents an integrative model that links mindfulness with neural mechanisms governing cognitive control, emotion regulation, and self-related processing. By reducing maladaptive behaviors—such as smoking, overeating, and substance use—mindfulness enhances self-awareness and facilitates long-term behavior change. Tune in to discover the science behind mindfulness as a powerful tool for improving mental and physical well-being.Reference:Schuman-Olivier Z, Trombka M, Lovas DA, Brewer JA, Vago DR, Gawande R, Dunne JP, Lazar SW, Loucks EB, Fulwiler C. Mindfulness and Behavior Change. Harvard Review of Psychiatry. 2020;28(6):371-394. doi:10.1097/HRP.0000000000000277Let's connect on Instagram

Feeling is Believing: The Convergence of Buddhist Theory and Modern Scientific Evidence Supporting How Self is Formed and Perpetuated Through Feeling Tone (Vedanā)In this episode, Dr. Jud dives into the convergence of ancient Buddhist psychology and modern neuroscience, as explored in the paper Feeling is Believing: The Convergence of Buddhist Theory and Modern Scientific Evidence Supporting How Self is Formed and Perpetuated Through Feeling Tone (Vedanā) by Judson A. Brewer. Discover how reward-based learning connects with the Buddhist concept of dependent origination and how understanding feeling tone (vedanā) can illuminate pathways to break free from habits and addictions. Dr. Jud also discusses practical interventions, such as mindfulness-based apps, that disrupt craving loops, reduce suffering, and foster self-awareness. Tune in to learn how cutting-edge science and ancient wisdom can reshape our understanding of self and behavior.Reference:Brewer, J. A. Feeling is Believing: The Convergence of Buddhist Theory and Modern Scientific Evidence Supporting How Self is Formed and Perpetuated Through Feeling Tone (Vedanā). Contemporary Buddhism. 2018. https://doi.org/10.1080/14639947.2018.1443553Let's connect on Instagram

The Psychological Benefits of Reconceptualizing Music-Making as Mindfulness PracticeIn this episode, Dr. Jud Brewer and Dr. Matthew Steinfeld explore the deep connection between mindfulness and music-making. Drawing on psychology, neuroscience, and contemplative traditions, this study argues that playing music can serve as a mindfulness practice, fostering presence, flow states, and emotional resilience. By shifting attention from self-judgment to the embodied experience of sound, musicians can reduce performance anxiety, enhance focus, and deepen their connection to their craft. Whether you're a professional musician or a casual player, tune in to discover how mindfulness can transform your musical experience.Full Reference:Steinfeld, M., & Brewer, J. A. (2015). The Psychological Benefits of Reconceptualizing Music-Making as Mindfulness Practice. Medical Problems of Performing Artists, 30(2), 84–89.Let's connect on Instagram

Pretreatment Brain Activation During Stroop Task Is Associated with Outcomes in Cocaine-Dependent PatientsIn this episode, Dr. Jud Brewer explores the relationship between brain activity and treatment outcomes for cocaine addiction. The discussion highlights a groundbreaking study that used functional MRI to measure brain activation during a cognitive control task, the Stroop test, prior to treatment. Findings reveal that activation in specific brain regions, including the anterior cingulate cortex, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, and striatum, correlates with abstinence, treatment retention, and drug-free outcomes. Dr. Brewer dives into how these neural patterns provide deeper insights into addiction recovery, showcasing the brain's role in predicting treatment success and refining behavioral therapies for substance dependence.Full Reference:Brewer, J. A., Worhunsky, P. D., Carroll, K. M., Rounsaville, B. J., & Potenza, M. N. (2008). Pretreatment brain activation during Stroop task is associated with outcomes in cocaine-dependent patients. Biological Psychiatry, 64(11), 998–1004. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopsych.2008.05.024Let's connect on Instagram