Psychedelics, mindfulness, and contemplative practices

by Numinus

Oct 12, 2021

Listen to this episode

In this episode of the Psychedelic Therapy Frontiers podcast, Dr. Steve Thayer and Dr. Reid Robison are joined for the second time by Dr. Paul Theilking, MD. Paul is a psychiatrist, zen practitioner, and Chief Scientific Officer at Novamind. They cover the following topics:

(2:45) What is a contemplative practice? 
(4:38) Contemplative practices go by many names (e.g., “spiritual”) 
(10:45) Mindfulness and the mystical experience
(16:55) Paul discusses mindfulness form a Zen perspective 
(20:44) The Zen practice of Koan contemplation
(24:00) What it means to “practice” mindfulness
(27:25) The difference between resisting and not resisting the contents of the present moment
(32:40) Is the mindful state of non-striving compatible with accomplishing goals? 
(39:17) Why are contemplative practices often used for integration after psychedelics?
(47:22) Yoga as a contemplative practice 
(53:28) Contemplative practices and the purpose of life
(01:00:16) The neuroscience of mindfulness
(01:02:55) Mindfulness and psychedelics help us understand the “self”

Email us questions and feedback at psychfrontiers@novamind.ca 
Learn more about our podcast at https://www.psychedelictherapyfrontiers.com/
Learn more about Novamind at https://www.novamind.ca/

Disclaimer: The content of this podcast does not constitute medical advice or mental health treatment. Consult with a medical/mental health professional if you believe you are in need of mental health treatment.

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