Contents:

Developing a Buddha Brain One Simple Practice at a Time

Just One Thing: Developing a Buddha Brain One Simple Practice at a Time

Just keeping it simple and keeping at it, one tiny minute at a time, is the key. This is indeed today's mindfulness. Just One Thing is the latest addition to the pile of these books on my desk, or rather my Kindle. I liked it a lot and it added a new layer to my decades-long quest for "buddha brain. The mind and the brain are no longer strangers or rivals for dominance. Nuggets of information are scattered throughout the book, such as the idea that the brain has a "negativity bias" which makes it automatically gravitate to negative thoughts rather than positive ones, a revelation that might make many breathe a sigh of relief that they are not always replaying negative thoughts and memories in their minds because of some character failing of their own.

On the other hand, it points to the need for conscious, deliberate effort to lead our thoughts toward the positive to enjoy life more and effect positive outcomes. Like some of the other books I've been reading lately, Hanson offers one idea for focus per week, if you spend a year on this book -- one meditation, practice, thought to lead yourself back to or behavior to change at a time.

The book is filled with philosophy, psychology, sacred teachings and practical advice along with the occasional foray into biology and brain chemistry, all in an easy conversational tone. View all 3 comments. Dec 24, Amy rated it did not like it Shelves: The only reason I finished this book was so I could justify rating it. Everything this book does has been done better else where.

Perspectives on Investment Management of Public Pension Funds (Frank J. Fabozzi Series).
.
Developing a Buddha Brain One Simple Practice at a Time | Greater Good Magazine.
Uno Due Tres Quattro: Wicked Tales of Singles to Foursomes.

I think this book missed its calling in life as a blog. Aug 24, Bonnie rated it really liked it Shelves: This was a well written positive little how-to guide on how to be mindful of your happiness on a daily basis. This is a novel for everyone. This is definitely a great read for anyone interested in trying to make their days just a bit better.

The first time I read this novel I read it front to back and I enjoyed it. This is going to be a great book to keep on hand for whenever I encounter a situation where a little guidance is needed. Interested in more of my reviews?

Just One Thing: Developing a Buddha Brain One Simple Practice at a Time [Rick Hanson PhD] on bahana-line.com *FREE* shipping on qualifying offers. You've. Editorial Reviews. Review. “These are great practices—wise and straightforward, scientific and Just One Thing: Developing a Buddha Brain One Simple Practice at a Time - Kindle edition by Rick Hanson. Religion & Spirituality Kindle.

Dec 06, Anuj rated it it was amazing Shelves: Let me add at the onset that I am biased towards Rick Hanson. I had subscribed to his newsletter and was moved by one of his blogs; so I mailed him and he responded back, which I thought was great of him. I borrowed this book from a friend who was visiting my city and finished it in a couple of days. Rather collection of his JOTs - fifty-two of them in this book, so it's a treasure. A wealth of practices to undertake, to follow, so that Let me add at the onset that I am biased towards Rick Hanson. A wealth of practices to undertake, to follow, so that you have a mindful brain.

One that accepts the reality, observes it for what it is and then take action to keep your balance and progress forward. What I love about Hanson is that he takes on neuroscience and amalgamates with the principles of Buddhism. Being an atheist I liked the fact that this wasn't about any push on a religion or spirituality related to one. Any one can meditate.

Any one can be mindful. But the onus is on you - to keep the awareness and practice to make your mind patterns stronger and on the path of self-fulfillment. Rick's strength lies in expressing things in an utmost simple manner. You can focus on your area and do those specific practices or do once a week or what ever. His methodology is great - talk about what the practice is about and then talk about action - how to do it.

My friend thought that some of the stuff is too tough to do, but the way I see it, if you practice, or start to, you can only get better. Any thing is better when you have more mindfulness. And any thing that can make your better is simply tremendous. I have ordered a copy for myself, which I intend going through again and keep following specific ones.

In fact, have also ordered his other book: Developing the Buddha's Brain and look forward to reading that one too. Mar 21, Becky rated it it was ok Shelves: Just One Thing reads more like 52 disjointed, informal blog entries than an actual grown-up book. That wouldn't bother me so much if I had actually learned something -- anything -- remotely helpful, but Self help books be like, "Eat right and exercise! Wake up at the same time everyday! Make time to do enjoyable things! Make frie Just One Thing reads more like 52 disjointed, informal blog entries than an actual grown-up book.

Make friends with reliable, supportive people! Jun 24, J rated it it was amazing. This is not a book you sit and read cover-to-cover. It's a book of 52 mindful practices that require thought and reflection, and of course, practice. Rick Hanson's compassion and wisdom come through on every page. I originally checked this book out from the library, but after reading his introduction, I went out and purchased two copies: It's a book I want on my shelves and one I no doubt will return to again, and again. Jan 13, Eve rated it liked it. This little book is designed as a Buddhist practice manual, to be read, not as a novel, but as a once-a-night or once-a-morning dose of practical advice that purports to change your life, one aspect at a time.

At first, my reaction was that it was too "pat" or simplistic, and I was skeptical: Easier said than done. As I always do, I read the book straight through. About half or three quarters of the way t This little book is designed as a Buddhist practice manual, to be read, not as a novel, but as a once-a-night or once-a-morning dose of practical advice that purports to change your life, one aspect at a time.

About half or three quarters of the way through, I realized that it was getting better, and that there were some real gems of wisdom that I should pay attention to. It's a cumulative thing, I suppose. Now I feel that I need to keep the book by my bedside and focus on each chapter for one week - there are 52 chapters, by the way - to work on some of my issues and attitudes. Perhaps it will also inspire me to read Buddha's Brain which Hanson is most famous for and to adopt a Buddhist approach to life.

We'll see, but the book may be a springboard to some positive changes, and if so, then the book has achieved its goal. Apr 30, Stephanie rated it it was amazing. This book makes a good weekly devotional, although that's not how I read it. Feb 08, Barrie rated it it was ok. Maybe if I owned this book I could really dive deep into every 52 'things' to truly develop--but honestly, this book just went too fast for me.

It was a spitfire approach to making yourself better. I rather the story approach then these brief 'do this and that' approach. I did take a few things away from it, hence the 2 stars and not total suckage, but I actually prefer a book like The Happiness Project over this high-speed do a billion things to make your life better book. It was overwhelming t Maybe if I owned this book I could really dive deep into every 52 'things' to truly develop--but honestly, this book just went too fast for me.

It was overwhelming to say the least although, I do understand that the book said you could take a few approaches at a time and not try to focus on everything--but it still overwhelmed me.

Oct 11, Shana Simmons rated it it was amazing. I love this book! Actually I had pretty much figured out much of the stuff in this book through the School of Hard Knocks, but it's still worth reading and contains some quotable quotes. Oct 08, Stephanie rated it it was amazing. Just one thing, read this daily just one time a day Mar 04, Tom Bentley rated it really liked it. Encouraging, helpful and clear examples of re-framing your experiences in ways that induce a more positive state of mind.

Never in the Pollyanna sense of "look on the bright side": The author has many cautions about these admonitions to look at your experiences in a fresh way as not putting blinkers on tough times, but not letting things overwhelm you. And not to let old patterns of thought dictate how you experience things anew. The format of simple descriptions of how situations unfold and then Encouraging, helpful and clear examples of re-framing your experiences in ways that induce a more positive state of mind. The format of simple descriptions of how situations unfold and then how to consider them with a conscious approach is nicely done, both for brevity and clarity.

I have been using some of his advice for the past 2 weeks, and—when I think to apply it, and don't let the inner voice shout—have had good results. I heartily recommend his other book, "Buddha's Brain," as well. Mar 23, Nancy rated it it was amazing. I liked this book because it gives practical ways in which to change life for the better without an overlay of any particular religion. I think a lot of practical wisdom gets missed when people see that it comes from a religious perspective.

I know "Buddha" is in the title, but it is merely findings from neuroscience that guide the practices.

Aug 08, Liaken rated it really liked it Shelves: The introduction is worth the book. It's very simple in concept, but that's why it works. Check it out from your library and read the intro and then look through the sections. If it resonates, go forth and do the little things until you've altered your brain function. Jul 24, Jennifer rated it liked it. Mar 09, Jessica rated it liked it Shelves: Mar 11, Jackie rated it liked it. There are a lot of good tips and powerful ideas in this book, but it can be overly wordy and difficult to read at times.

Hanson goes a bit overboard with examples and synonyms which can confuse the reader on his main ideas. Jan 14, April Dawn rated it really liked it. Then they used their minds to change their brains in ways that changed history.

See a Problem?

As a follow up, Dr. Hanson has now published Just One Thing: Just One Thing is a crowning jewel amongst contemplative science works. Building off of the great teachers- Jesus, Moses, the Buddha- the book offers tiny tidbits of knowledge that can lead to big changes in the brain; changes Dr. In fact, the book steers clear of discussing religion, and instead discusses methods for seeing reality. For folks who automatically took this to be bad news, fear not. H explains how whether we realize it or not, our minds are always changing, for better or for worse. Once we have an awareness of this, we can dedicate time to ensuring that any changes that occur are for the better, by making conscious decisions.

The book offers over 50 simple, easy to understand and employ! Each practice stems from ancestral wisdom and is supported by a plethora of research into positive psychology and modern neuroscience. I received a digital edition of this book for free from the publisher. This in no way affected my review; this review is my own opinion.

Dec 01, K rated it really liked it Shelves: As the year draws to a close, I feel that have been needing all three! Separated into more than fifty small, easily digestible entries, this book links Science with Buddhism to present some fantastically useful types on mindfulness, morality and overcoming challenges in life.

While a few entries understandably did not speak to me, most of them had me nodding my head in agreement and really thinking about how I could integrate the suggestions into my own life. In particular, I love the entries on relaxation, as I really do think this is the modern ailment of our tired, overly stimulated and stressed society. Rick Hanson, is the perfect brain-training guide. No one paid me to say that. How apt a metaphor can you get, by the way?

Developing a Buddha Brain One Simple Practice at a Time

Mindfulness itself eludes me, escapes me, flies from me. But my paid copy was absolutely worth the money. No day-long silent retreats. No marathon meditation sessions. For example, the chapter on slowing down includes this gem: The book is full of stuff like this.

Just One Thing: Developing a Buddha Brain One Simple Practice at a Time

No brain transplants available, last I checked — but at least now I have some optimism that I can get my stress under control. You can see mind practices as muscle building for the mind, Hanson suggests. Hanson draws on his forty years of spiritual practice, and a dual career as a neuroscientist and Buddhism teacher, to show the value of these practices and then explains how we can perform these brief actions in daily life.

The 52 practices are divided into five sections: The author then outlines many practices which can get us the amount of sleep we need to improve our health and wellbeing. If it regularly rests on thoughts of worry, self-criticism and anger, we sculpt a very different brain than a mind cultivating traits of relaxation, self-compassion and letting go of clinging.

Then they used their minds to change their brains in ways that changed history. As a follow up, Dr. Building off of the great teachers — Jesus, Moses, the Buddha — the book offers tiny tidbits of knowledge that can lead to big changes in the brain; changes Dr. In fact, the book steers clear of discussing religion, and instead discusses methods for seeing reality. For folks who automatically took this to be bad news, fear not. H explains how whether we realize it or not, our minds are always changing, for better or for worse.

Once we have an awareness of this, we can dedicate time to ensuring that any changes that occur are for the better, by making conscious decisions. The book offers over 50 simple, easy to understand and employ! Each practice stems from ancestral wisdom and is supported by a plethora of research into positive psychology and modern neuroscience. For each practice, Hanson gives a short explanation of the practice and its benefits, followed by a more detailed description of how to approach it.

Some will appeal more than others, and Hanson encourages readers to choose the ones that work best for them. In the introduction he writes: In every chapter I found at least one small gem of inspiration. The old saying about the teacher appearing when the student is ready was the first one.

That feels especially good. Oct 08, Stephanie rated it it was amazing. No one paid me to say that. The sections are brief, with chapter headings to describe each practice, so it's easy to flip through and find what's relevant to you. Hanson draws on his forty years of spiritual practice, and a dual career as a neuroscientist and Buddhism teacher, to show the value of these practices and then explains how we can perform these brief actions in daily life. You can transform it — without getting a transplant.

The second was about how it sometimes seems as if everyone suddenly has the same idea all at once. It only takes a minute, they tell us; no long meditation sessions or esoteric tomes to wade through. No ashram retreats or minimalist camps; no deep philosophies or dogma to buy into; no east versus west worldview conflicts or religions. Tiny chunks of practice, just sixty seconds at a time, one idea a week for no more than one year. Just keeping it simple and keeping at it, one tiny minute at a time, is the key. The mind and the brain are no longer strangers or rivals for dominance.

On the other hand, it points to the need for conscious, deliberate effort to lead our thoughts toward the positive to enjoy life more and affect positive outcomes. The book is filled with philosophy, psychology, sacred teachings and practical advice along with the occasional foray into biology and brain chemistry, all in an easy conversational tone. This is a novel for everyone. This is definitely a great read for anyone interested in trying to make their days just a bit better. The first time I read this novel I read it front to back and I enjoyed it. This is going to be a great book to keep on hand for whenever I encounter a situation where a little guidance is needed.

In his newest book, Dr Hanson, a neuropsychologist and co-founder of the Wellspring Institute , helps the reader to understand that our thought processes actually lead to physical changes in the brain. In turn, these changes impact psychological and physical health including the immune system.

When positive things are input, positive outcomes result. Part 1 emphasizes that change is possible and identifies simple steps to elicit positive change. Part 2 identifies the benefits of taking pleasure in our surroundings, getting excited, taking mental holidays and most of all practicing faith in the right things.

It highlights the effect on the brain by something as simple as a smile. In the remaining segments, Dr Hanson provides examples of how to build strength, how to increase capabilities by challenging assumptions, how to dream big and how to achieve peace. These are great practices — wise and straightforward, scientific and nourishing. They can transform your life. Grounded in fascinating science, psychological understanding and timeless wisdom, this book offers a rich assortment of entirely simple, doable ways you can find more happiness and ease.

Embracing Your Life with the Heart of a Buddha. These small essays explore the essential questions of our times: How do we find inner clarity in the face of outer turmoil? How do we feel less stress and learn to be more at home in our own skin? This gem of a book is filled with treasures that will build your relationships with others—and with yourself!

I loved soaking in the clarity and sincerity of these offerings that invite us to enter life with more vitality and to live each day to the fullest. Feast on these pages and enjoy! Executive Director, Mindsight Institute. An Integrative Handbook of the Mind. I plan to devote a week to each of the fifty-two practices, taking this next year to cultivate the compassion at the heart of this book.