The Power of the Wandering Mind

by Halvor Eifring (Editor)

Nondirective Meditation is not about emptying the mind. Instead, mind wandering is seen as an important resource. Silently repeating a meditation sound helps to cultivate a free mental attitude. The activity in the brain's default mode network increases, enriching the flow of spontaneous thought. Mind wandering brings rest and recuperation, helps us consolidate our memory of the past, and stimulates our planning toward future goals. It enhances creativity and makes it easier to shift perspective. It is a central feature of empathy and social relations. In fifteen chapters, experts in neuroscience, medicine, psychology, philosophy and the humanities share groundbreaking perspectives on how nondirective meditation interacts with brain and body, mind and culture.

284 pages, Hardcover

Published April 3, 2019

Reviews

[Paul]

This was one of the most important books I have read in a long, long time. It is not aimed at the pop psychology market but what it delivers is hugely significant. The key insight is that we are equipped with a brain network that provides enormous benefits for our mental health if we know how to access it in a significant way. We access it everyday when we allow the mind to wander but in an age of digital distraction this is all to rare. The authors spell out a method of meditation that accesses it powerfully and this method is largely unknown. A great book .