Democracy on the Eightfold Path By John M. de Castro, Ph.D. “It is important to realize that a well-functioning democracy — a republic — depends not just on freedom from censorship, but also on a set of common experiences and on unsought, unanticipated, and even unwanted exposures to diverse topics, people, and ideas. […]
Improve Enjoyment of Exercise with Mindfulness By John M. de Castro, Ph.D. “Kick your boring treadmill cardio up a notch with mindfulness! Practicing mindfulness while on the treadmill doubles your cardio’s health benefits without any extra work or time.” – Justin Vict There are clearly established benefits to regular exercise for the […]
The Power of Retreat 6 – Darkness, Light, and Nothingness By John M. de Castro, Ph.D. “Silent retreats are a kind of crucible that reveal the workings of the mind in a unique and illuminating way.” James Baraz This essay is the 6th of a continuing series of essays about the experience […]
Improve Psychological Health with Mindfulness Smartphone Aps By John M. de Castro, Ph.D. “With apps reaching more people than face-to-face teaching can, he says, “nothing will influence how mindfulness is perceived and practised in our culture more in the next 20 years”. – Amy Fleming Mindfulness training has been shown through extensive […]
The Noble Eightfold Path: Right Actions By John M. de Castro, Ph.D/ “Right Actions” is the fourth component of the Buddha’s Noble Eightfold Path, Right View, Right Intentions, Right Speech, Right Actions, Right Livelihood, Right Effort, Right Mindfulness and Right Concentration.” It follows directly from “Right View”. When one sees everything just as […]
The Variety of Meditation Experiences By John M. de Castro, Ph.D. “One can have almost any type of physical sensation during meditation in any area of the body. . . The ticklish sensation in your heart just means that some normalization is occurring there, allowing for a more full expression of your emotions. […]
Lessen Fibromyalgia Pain with Mindfulness By John M. de Castro, Ph.D. “You’ve heard the expression “mind over matter,” but did you know that it’s a tried-and-true approach to easing many conditions, including fibromyalgia?” – Madeline Vann Fibromyalgia is a mysterious disorder whose causes are unknown. It is very common affecting over 5 million […]
Improve Memory and Frontal Lobe Function in Older Adults with Mind-Body Practices By John M. de Castro, Ph.D. “Scientists . . . found increases in brain volume and improvements on tests of memory and thinking in Chinese seniors who practiced Tai Chi three times a week.” – Science Daily The nervous system […]
Improve Type 2 Diabetes with Qigong Practice By John M. de Castro, Ph.D. “In addition to the importance of moderate physical activity, the relaxation element of Tai Chi may help to reduce stress levels, preventing the release of adrenalin which can lead to insulin resistance and high blood glucose levels.” – Cathy Moulton Diabetes is a […]
Improve Fibromyalgia with Yoga Practice By John M. de Castro, Ph.D. “If you are suffering from fibromyalgia, it can be hard to get yourself moving, but movement and exercise are key ways to help manage and minimize pain. Practicing yoga daily can help. Yoga targets not only the body but also the mind. You […]