Meditation, Yogic Philosophy, and Science: Monthly Series with Paras (Kenneth) Pugh

Sun, Jun 14
1:30 PM – 3:00 PM

Suggested Donation to the Ashram: $20

This ongoing series uses different critical Yogic teachings, with a focus on biomedical and neuroscience connections, from Vedantic, Jain and Buddhist perspectives. Each time, the stage will be set with an exploration of different meditation techniques, to create a readiness for Svādhyāya (Self-study) and Bhāvana (contemplation). Group meditation with other seekers creates a very special energy. Our meditation practices and understanding of things are enriched when connected with systematic exploration of ancient and modern ideas on consciousness, brain and learning.

Topics we may want to explore together over time will include:

1. Brain structure, function, chemistry and plasticity
2. Genetics, brain and ideas of karma
3. Embodied cognition, language and intuition
4. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and consciousness
5. Meditation and general mental health
6. Meditation and intelligence (creativity, insight and wisdom)

To join via zoom please click here.

Dr. Ken Pugh has been the Director of Research at Haskins Labs since 2009 and holds faculty appointments at both the University of Connecticut and at Yale University School of Medicine. His research program employs genetic, neuroimaging and cognitive methods to explicate the brain bases of typical and atypical language and reading development in children. At the age of sixteen, Dr. Pugh began seven years of training in the Jain monastic traditions and carries these experiences into his work on brain and cognition.