240 Dr. Andrew Newberg on The Science Behind Spirituality

Dr. Andrew Newberg is the world’s leading thinker on neurotheology. His work has been published in over 250 peer reviewed articles and chapters on brain function and the study of religious and mystical experiences. He has published 14 books including How God Changes Your Brain and Neurotheology: How Science Can Enlighten Us About Spirituality. In this broad conversation, Lisa and Dr. Newberg explore the connections between spirituality and the brain. Dr. Newberg offers enlightening perspective on modern spirituality and its role in living well.   THE GUEST DR. ANDREW NEWBERG | Neurotheologist + Author Dr. Andrew Newberg is the director of research at the Marcus Institute of Integrative Health and a physician at Jefferson University Hospital. He is board certified in internal medicine and nuclear medicine. Dr. Newberg is a neuroscientist who studies the relationship between brain function and various mental states. He is a pioneer in the neurological study of religious and spiritual experiences, a field known as “neurotheology.” His research includes taking brain scans of people in prayer, meditation, rituals, and trance states, in an attempt to better understand the nature of religious and spiritual practices and attitudes. He has published over 250 peer reviewed articles and chapters on brain function, brain imaging, and the study of religious and mystical experiences. He has published 14 books, which have been translated into 17 different languages. His work has been featured in Newsweek, Time, National Geographic, New York Times, Forbes, and many more.   TOPICS COVERED Religion vs Spirituality and why the distinction matters The connection between psychedelics and spiritual experiences The science of great spiritual retreats and how to choose one for yourself The spiritual value of communal gathering outside of traditionally religious settings Designing an optimal morning routine Best practices for meditation Grief and spirituality And much more! See the Show Notes at BehindtheBrilliance.com