#108: The Ethics of Meditation - Nicholas Van Dam, PhD

Clinical psychologist and contemplative science researcher Dr. Nicholas Van Dam joins us to explore the ethics of meditation and what scientific research reveals about how contemplative practices actually work. He examines how much practice is needed to see meaningful change, why challenging experiences can arise, and what current methods can and cannot reliably measure. We discuss the importance of informed consent in meditation, the role of wisdom traditions alongside modern science, and why honesty and nuance are essential as these practices enter mental health, education, and digital platforms. Dr. Van Dam also shares how contemplative science can support deeper understanding, responsibility, and care as meditation becomes more widely adopted.   FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.org   SHOW NOTES 0:00 | Science, wisdom traditions, and the modern search for meaning 1:46 | Introducing Nicholas Van Dam and the ethics of contemplative science 3:00 | Early life, religious roots, and the path into meditation research 5:35 | From brain science to real-world mental health impact 7:30 | Building an agnostic contemplative research centre in Australia 13:10 | Ethics, bias, and responsibility in meditation research 17:00 | Translating between science and wisdom traditions 20:45 | How much meditation is enough? What dose-response research shows 26:45 | Challenging meditation experiences and informed consent 33:00 | The "missing middle": maps, stages, and what comes after beginner programs 40:50 | Equanimity, emotion, and tensions with modern life and values 52:45 | Engagement vs efficacy: why some practices are easier to sustain 1:03:00 | Retreats, daily practice, sleep, and intensity trade-offs 1:13:00 | Neuroplasticity and the limits of brain-based explanations 1:17:15 | Neurofeedback, psychedelics, and the ethics of shortcuts 1:24:15 | Mapping inner experience and the future of contemplative science 1:32:15 | AI, teachers, and scaling wisdom without losing depth 1:38:20 | The future of contemplative science and FitMind's role 1:45:21 | Where to learn more Contemplative Studies Centre Website: https://psychologicalsciences.unimelb.edu.au/CSC Nicholas Van Dam's Personal Website: https://www.nicholastvandam.com

Social neuroscientist Dr. Tania Singer joins us to explore the science of empathy, compassion, and the plasticity of the social brain. She breaks down why empathy and compassion are entirely different neural states, what her research with Buddhist monks revealed, and why compassion, not empathy, is the more resilient response to suffering. We discuss the ReSource Project's surprising findings, including why interpersonal "dyadic" practices reduce social stress far better than solo meditation. Dr. Singer also shares how these practices are being brought into schools, healthcare, and even economic thinking to help create a more caring society.   FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.org SHOW NOTES 00:00 | Empathy vs. Compassion: Understanding the Brain Networks  02:57 | The Journey into Social Neuroscience 06:15 | Landmark Studies on Empathy and Pain 10:50 | Compassion: A Deeper Understanding 14:32 | The Resource Project: Mental Training Programs 20:47 | Dyadic Practices: Enhancing Social Connection 24:34 | Cortisol Levels and Social Stress 28:40 | Implementing Programs in Education and Healthcare 34:14 | Caring Economics: A New Vision for Society 40:49 | Where to Find Dr. Singer's Courses Dr. Singer's Website: https://taniasinger.de

Cognitive scientist Dr. Therese Huston joins The FitMind Podcast to share practical, research-backed ways to sharpen focus, lower stress, and keep the brain healthy at any age. Drawing from decades of neuroscience, she explains why multitasking quietly erodes attention and memory and what to do instead. We explore simple, realistic habits that help your mind function at its best: 20-minute single-task blocks, 40 Hz binaural beats for deep focus, and a brief 5-2-7 breathing technique that can quickly calm the nervous system. Dr. Huston also highlights how aerobic movement, dance, and social connection drive neurogenesis and long-term brain vitality. If you've ever felt scattered, stressed, or mentally drained, this episode offers grounded science and clear tools for regaining clarity and calm in daily life.   FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.org SHOW NOTES 00:00 | Intro to Dr. Therese Huston 07:45 | Wellness overwhelm and how she filters research into usable habits 10:06 | Why "practical" matters more than trendy protocols 12:20 | The multitasking myth: short-term mood boost, long-term costs 17:09 | Live demo: single-tasking vs alternating tasks 19:40 | Errors, brain activity, and stress during multitasking 21:51 | Escaping the multitasking loop with timers and clear agreements 24:30 | Focus tools: how to use 40 Hz binaural beats 28:47 | Why multitasking feels productive and how to reframe arousal 32:33 | Before a talk: "excited, not anxious" and stress-as-fuel 36:03 | Guided 5-2-7 breathing and what it does in the body 41:18 | CO₂, vagus nerve, and decision quality after breath cycles 43:19 | Rethinking "amygdala hijack" and protecting prefrontal control 48:18 | BDNF, neurogenesis, and an aerobic exercise target for memory 51:24 | Dance, social connection, and brain longevity 52:53 | Quick fire: myths to ditch and personal focus resets 54:45 | Exercise snacks and team culture ideas

World champion freediver Will Trubridge explores the depths of the mind and ocean, sharing mental techniques honed through decades of extreme performance. In this episode, he explains how breathwork, mindfulness, and what he calls the "mental immune system" can help us face fear, build resilience, and expand awareness. Discover how lessons from the deep sea translate into a healthier, more conscious life on land. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.org SHOW NOTES 00:00 | Intro to Will Trubridge 01:21 | Will's Background & Early Freediving 04:59 | Role of Breathwork 09:43 | Physiological Adaptations Underwater 14:16 | Overcoming Fear and Mental Barriers 19:41 | Consciousness in Freediving 26:23 | Parallels to Meditation 31:59 | Limits of the Mind 39:56 | The Mental Immune System 43:59 | Practical Mental Techniques 50:26 | Applying Freediving Lessons to Life 54:53 | Science of Freediving 1:01:31 | Mind-Body Connection 1:09:41 | Awareness Training & Breathwork Exercises 1:14:59 | Closing Insights Website: https://www.williamtrubridge.com Mental Immune System: https://mentalimmunesystem.com

Can cells outside the brain learn, remember, and make decisions? In this episode, neuroscientist Dr. Nikolay Kukushkin shares groundbreaking research that shows even non-neuronal cells can recognize patterns, count, and store information in ways strikingly similar to brain cells. We explore: Why memory may not be limited to the brain What sea slugs can teach us about human cognition How prediction and perception shape our sense of self The parallels between AI and biological intelligence Whether trauma could be "stored" in cells outside the nervous system Dr. Kukushkin's work suggests we rethink intelligence, not as something exclusive to the brain, but as a fundamental property of life. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.org   SHOW NOTES 0:00 | Intro to Nikolay Kukushkin, PhD 5:10 | Memory in Seaslugs 10:25 | Cells Can Recognize Patterns 20:28 | Memory Defined 23:02 | Do Cells Store Trauma? 30:40 | Treatment for Neurological Conditions 38:40 | Brain & Memory Connection 42:25 | Optimal Interval for Superior Memory 44:52 | Layering of Predictions 50:35 | AI Inspired by Neuronal Behavior 52:27 | Cellular Cognition & Memory 54:47 | Intelligence of Non-Brain Cells 58:38 | Consciousness in Microtubules 1:06:15 | Where to Follow His Work Website: https://www.nikolaykukushkin.com One Hand Clapping Book: https://www.nikolaykukushkin.com/press-1 Follow on X: https://x.com/niko_kukushkin

Dr. Iain McGilchrist, a psychiatrist, philosopher, and author, joins the FitMind Podcast to explain how the brain's two hemispheres shape our perception, attention, and consciousness. He explores how the left brain's dominance in modern culture leads to a fragmented, analytical worldview, while the right hemisphere offers a more connected, meaningful experience of reality. We discuss the moral and spiritual dimensions of attention, the limits of language, the nature of consciousness and the self, and how walking supports fluid thinking. McGilchrist also shares insights from his recent work with biologist Mike Levin on emergence and form. This episode combines neuroscience, philosophy, and spirituality, inviting a shift toward a more balanced and integrated perspective on the world. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.org   SHOW NOTES 0:00 | Intro to Iain McGilchrist 2:09 | Attention in Left & Right Brain 17:00 | How the Left Brain Came to Dominate 19:08 | Brain Hemispheres & Happiness 25:25 | Why Right Brain is the True Master 34:30 | Great Truths 35:19 | Morality of Attention 41:44 | Explaining Sacred 45:12 | Shortcomings of Language 51:28 | Distinct vs. Divided 56:20 | Balancing Brain Hemispheres 1:06:31 | Sense of Self & Relations 1:12:15 | Mirror Neurons 1:14:32 | Walking for Fluidity of Thought 1:23:34 | Consciousness Theory 1:31:07 | Water Analogy 1:35:52 | Work with Mike Levin 1:46:22 | Where to Follow His Work Substack: https://iainmcgilchrist.substack.com/ Website: https://channelmcgilchrist.com  

Psychologist and leading self-compassion researcher Dr. Kristin Neff shares how treating yourself with kindness, especially in moments of failure, can boost motivation, resilience, and mental health. We explore the science behind self-compassion, its impact on performance and emotional regulation, and how to shift from self-criticism to a more constructive inner voice.   FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.org   Show Notes 0:00 | Intro to Dr. Kristin Neff 3:52 | Compassion vs. Empathy 8:12 | 3 Core Components of Self-Compassion 13:52 | Role of Personal Responsibility  16:52 | Healthier Alternative to Self-Esteem 20:07 | Common Misconceptions 23:16 | Learning, Flow & Performance  28:32 | How Self-Compassion Impacts Others 31:40 | Physical Touch 33:42 | Depression, Anxiety & Grief 41:14 | Steps to Cultivate Self-Compassion 46:00 | Self-Compassion Break (Exercise)  55:13 | Forgiveness 1:01:06 | Taking Action  1:02:48 | Explore more resources from Dr. Neff at 🔗 self-compassion.org  

Tai Chi master and filmmaker George Thompson shares how movement became a form of meditation and a path to healing. From training with a Taoist monk in the mountains to recovering from a knee injury using only internal awareness, George explores how mindful movement can transform our thoughts, breath, and daily lives.  We discuss: How Tai Chi helped him heal chronic pain Breath and body awareness as daily meditation  Taoist perspectives on the universe and emptiness Internal Family Systems and labeling your inner "parts" Why facing life's challenges with integrity is the real practice   FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.org   Show Notes 0:00 | Intro to George Thompson 9:58 | Meeting Master Gu 12:56 | Tai Chi Training 15:45 | Healing Knee Pain 20:12 | Breath Awareness Exercise 22:09 | How Taichi Transforms Thought 29:40 | Emptiness Described 34:10 | Taoist Origin Story of the Universe 38:26 | Patterns 41:55 | Daily Practices 47:58 Breathwork Practices 50:04 | Applying Daily Mindfulness 56:10 | Internal Family Systems - Labeling Parts 57:47 | Documentary Message & Inspiration 1:01:02 | Consciousness 1:10:00 | Facing Challenges 1:15:33 | Life of Service & Integrity 1:21:25 | Where to Find More on George 🎥 Watch George's documentary "The Subtle Art of Losing Yourself" here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9KArWcMldPM 🌿 Learn more about George's retreats and teachings: https://www.balanceispossible.com/ & https://www.taoistwellness.online/  

In this episode, neuroscientist and clinical researcher Dr. Justin Feinstein discusses the fascinating science and therapeutic potential of flotation therapy. Often misunderstood and mislabeled as "sensory deprivation," Dr. Feinstein explains why this is a misnomer and what's truly happening inside the float tank. Instead of depriving the senses, floating creates an environment of deep physical and mental rest, allowing the nervous system to reset. We explore Dr. Feinstein's pioneering research on using float therapy to help individuals with PTSD and high anxiety sensitivity. He also shares insights into how flotation therapy could become a valuable tool in the public health system, especially for trauma survivors and people with severe anxiety. Dr. Feinstein highlights compelling case studies, including patients with anorexia nervosa who experienced meaningful relief through floating, as well as its growing popularity among high-performing athletes looking to optimize recovery and mental performance. Whether you're new to flotation therapy or familiar with the practice, this conversation reveals its untapped potential and emerging role in both mental health and peak performance.   FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.org   Show Notes 0:00 | Intro to Justin Feinstein, PhD 2:55 | Floating & PTSD treatment  18:02 | More Stress, More Effective Floating 20:02 | Anxious People's Struggle With Meditation 31:58 | High Anxiety Sensitivity  43:41 | Peak Performance Through Flotation 47:12 | How Long Benefits of Floating Last 52:29 | Floating & Meditation 54:31 | Out-of-Body Experiences  58:03 | Anorexia Nervosa & Floating 1:01:40 | Effects on Nervous System 1:04:07 | Altered States & Brainwaves in the Tank 1:19:26 | Importance of Early Intervention 1:24:17 | Respiration 1:27:30 | Links: https://www.mauicalm.org/, https://www.clinicalfloat.org/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-feinstein/

This episode features Dr. Philippe Douyon, a board-certified neurologist specializing in neuroplasticity, brain health, and cognitive resilience. We discuss the brain's ability to adapt and reorganize, challenging misconceptions like the belief that cognitive change is limited to early life.   Dr. Douyon explains how inherited mindsets shape thought patterns and how intentional habits can rewire the brain for better cognitive function. Key strategies for brain health, including diet, fasting, exercise, and lifelong learning, are explored, along with neurodegenerative disorders and the effects of chronic stress. Practical approaches to mental fitness and stress management highlight how individuals can enhance cognitive resilience and take control of their brain health.   FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.org   Show Notes 0:00 | Introduction to Dr. Philipe Douyon 4:18 | Neuroplasticity Explained 6:00 | Myths About Neuroplasticity 10:01 | Inherited Mindset  12:13 | Taking Charge of Your Brain 15:21 | Lifestyle Changes for Brain Health 23:50 | Fasting 26:55 | Diet 30:13 | Life-Long Learning  38:36 | Neurological Disorders: Strokes & Dementia 42:32 | Pseudo-Dementia 46:26 | Flow States 48:47 | Benefit of Learning New Things 53:55 | Role of Emotions 56:22 | Chronic Stress Management 1:06:41 | Rapid Fire Questions