Abstract: Over the past century, we have witnessed the rise of therapeutic meditation practices such as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction and Transcendental Meditation, developed to alleviate the pressures of modern life and enhance wellbeing. However, the scientific focus on wellbeing and self-enhancement has constrained our understanding of the remarkable diversity of meditation practices, their varied aims, and their potential risks.

In this talk I explore how to develop a multidimensional science of meditation that encompasses the diversity of practices and goals, as well as the systematic mapping of nonordinary states of consciousness, including both beneficial and adverse effects. I conclude by reflecting on the underlying beliefs about the power of meditation and argue for the importance of expanding research beyond a narrow focus on wellbeing and self-enhancement.

Cost is $40, sliding scale available. Use code EBSCIENCE for 60% off before September 16th.

Learning objectives:

• Participants will be able to articulate the different aims of religious-based versus secular therapeutic techniques.

• Participants will be able to describe the key beliefs people today hold about the power of mindfulness practices.

• Participants will be able to understand how a multidimensional science of meditation can broaden our perspective on meditation and the study of consciousness.

This lecture has been approved for 1 APA CE credit.