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Brain Weaver: Creating the Fabric for a Healthy Mind through Integrative Medicine
Though adult cognitive development has previously been thought to be unyielding and static, Brain Weaver offers new hope and empowerment to remain mentally vibrant for a lifetime. Doctors Newberg and Monti’s team at Thomas Jefferson University’s Marcus Institute of Integrative Health are at the forefront of research in brain functioning and applications of the most advanced understanding in real-world strategies to expand options for optimizing our complex neurophysiology.
Their findings show that optimal brain health is achievable by successfully weaving together a tapestry of our bio-psycho-social-spiritual dimensions. Brain Weaver also coincides with a decades-long surge in the public’s interest in whole-person treatments―body, mind and spirit evidence-based integrative therapies that include pharmaceuticals, electromagnetics, nutrition and meditation. Brain Weaver ’s timeliness is all the more important now to address a new paradigm for post-pandemic wellness that emphasizes our individual and collective responsibility for proactive healthcare 8 page, 4-color insert of brain scan images
Their findings show that optimal brain health is achievable by successfully weaving together a tapestry of our bio-psycho-social-spiritual dimensions. Brain Weaver also coincides with a decades-long surge in the public’s interest in whole-person treatments―body, mind and spirit evidence-based integrative therapies that include pharmaceuticals, electromagnetics, nutrition and meditation. Brain Weaver ’s timeliness is all the more important now to address a new paradigm for post-pandemic wellness that emphasizes our individual and collective responsibility for proactive healthcare 8 page, 4-color insert of brain scan images
- GenresHealthNonfictionScience
260 pages, Hardcover
Published May 11, 2021
18 people are currently reading
148 people want to read
About the author
Andrew B. Newberg
42 books179 followersDr. Andrew Newberg is Director of Research at the Myrna Brind Center for Integrative Medicine at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and Medical College. He is also Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Religious Studies at the University of Pennsylvania. He is Board-certified in Internal Medicine and Nuclear Medicine. He is considered a pioneer in the neuroscientific study of religious and spiritual experiences, a field frequently referred to as – neurotheology. His work attempts to better understand the nature of religious and spiritual practices and experiences. This has been compiled into his latest book, Principles of Neurotheology, which reviews the important principles and foundations of neurotheology. Believing that it is important to keep science rigorous and religion religious, he has engaged the topic like few others. He has been fascinated by the implications of this research for the study of the mind, brain, consciousness, morality, theology, and philosophy. He has also been particularly interested in the relationship between the brain, religion, and health. His research has included brain scans of people in prayer, meditation, rituals, and various trance states. He has also performed surveys of people's spiritual experiences and attitudes. Finally, he has evaluated the relationship between religious and spiritual phenomena and health. This includes a recent study on the effect of meditation on memory.
In his career, he has also actively pursued neuroimaging research projects on the study of aging and dementia, Parkinson's disease, depression, and other neurological and psychiatric disorders. He has also researched the neurophysiological correlates of acupuncture, meditation, and alternative therapies, and how brain function is associated with mystical and religious experiences. Dr. Newberg helped develop stress-management programs for the University of Pennsylvania Health Systems and received a Science and Religion Course Award from the Center for Theology and the Natural Sciences for his program entitled "The Biology of Spirituality" in the Department of Religious Studies, University of Pennsylvania. He is currently teaching a course in the Department of Religious Studies entitled, “Science and the Sacred: An Introduction to Neurotheology.”
Dr. Newberg has published over 150 research articles, essays and book chapters, and is the co-author of the best selling books, Why God Won't Go Away: Brain Science and the Biology of Belief (Ballantine, 2001) and How God Changes Your Brain: Breakthrough Findings from a Leading Neuroscientist (Ballantine, 2009). He has also published, Principles of Neurotheology (Ashgate, 2011) Why We Believe What We Believe (Ballantine, 2006), and The Mystical Mind (Fortress Press, 1999). He has presented his research throughout the world in both scientific and public forums. He appeared on Nightline, 20/20, Good Morning America, ABC's World News Tonight, National Public Radio, London Talk Radio and over fifteen nationally syndicated radio programs. His work has been featured in Time, Newsweek, the Los Angeles Times, the Washington Post, the Philadelphia Inquirer, and many other newspapers and magazines. An overview of his work can be viewed at on this site.
In his career, he has also actively pursued neuroimaging research projects on the study of aging and dementia, Parkinson's disease, depression, and other neurological and psychiatric disorders. He has also researched the neurophysiological correlates of acupuncture, meditation, and alternative therapies, and how brain function is associated with mystical and religious experiences. Dr. Newberg helped develop stress-management programs for the University of Pennsylvania Health Systems and received a Science and Religion Course Award from the Center for Theology and the Natural Sciences for his program entitled "The Biology of Spirituality" in the Department of Religious Studies, University of Pennsylvania. He is currently teaching a course in the Department of Religious Studies entitled, “Science and the Sacred: An Introduction to Neurotheology.”
Dr. Newberg has published over 150 research articles, essays and book chapters, and is the co-author of the best selling books, Why God Won't Go Away: Brain Science and the Biology of Belief (Ballantine, 2001) and How God Changes Your Brain: Breakthrough Findings from a Leading Neuroscientist (Ballantine, 2009). He has also published, Principles of Neurotheology (Ashgate, 2011) Why We Believe What We Believe (Ballantine, 2006), and The Mystical Mind (Fortress Press, 1999). He has presented his research throughout the world in both scientific and public forums. He appeared on Nightline, 20/20, Good Morning America, ABC's World News Tonight, National Public Radio, London Talk Radio and over fifteen nationally syndicated radio programs. His work has been featured in Time, Newsweek, the Los Angeles Times, the Washington Post, the Philadelphia Inquirer, and many other newspapers and magazines. An overview of his work can be viewed at on this site.
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
February 7, 2023
First, I want to say that Brain Weaver is the perfect title for a book that explores the interconnected aspects of optimal brain health:
Biological
Emotional/Psychological
Social
Spiritual
In my personal experience, these four dimensions are too often treated as separate entities rather than parts of a holistic approach to health. The authors do an outstanding job of weaving each together into an integrated whole.
I ordered this book at the end of 2021, and my only regret is not having read it right away. 2022 was an incredibly challenging period for my mental health — and overall health, really.
Reading this book was a compassionate reminder of the healthy lifestyle I dedicated myself to when I first decided to move away from medication in my mid-20s. Needless to say, I was long overdue for a refresher.
The Breakdown
Brain Weaver is excellent science writing in that it references peer-reviewed research and explains it in a way that’s easy and entertaining to read.
If you’re tired of hearing about how great yoga and meditation are and want to “see the proof,” this book is for you. The belly of this book is filled with color images of brain scan data that show the benefits of things like prayer and meditation.
But the best part is how clearly it’s organized. Good science writing is equal parts putting words on the page and structuring it in a way the reader will easily digest and understand.
Part One: The Basics
The first section provides fundamental information on brain health. It’s written plainly enough that anyone could pick it up, even if you’ve never read a paragraph about neuroscience or medicine in your life.
In this section, the authors cover topics like:
Nutrition
Gut health and the benefits of probiotics
Toxicity (including heavy metals, which is relevant to my current situation)
Sleep
Social networks
Spirituality
They always encourage the reader to consult with a healthcare provider, but the book provides a solid knowledge base for anyone interested in taking steps toward interventions.
Part Two: Healing Systems
This section explores an integrative approach to optimal brain health. A decent chunk of it focuses on the mental health benefits of physical exercise. I love this for many reasons.
Firstly, every recovery I’ve made from depression has begun with a renewed commitment to regular exercise. And also, I feel like there’s way too much emphasis on exercising to lose weight or achieve your ideal physical form. When you think of exercise and proper nutrition as ways to improve your health instead of reducing your body, well, it just feels… healthier.
Other chapters in this section include:
The Effects of Stress and Stress Reduction on Brainpower
Art, Music, and the Healthy Brain
The Meditative Brain
Special Tools for Brain Health
This section introduced me to some new modalities I’d like to learn more about, such as the Neuro Emotional Technique.
Part Three: Dealing with Brain Problems
The last section focuses on various brain disorders, including:
The most common psychiatric disorders (anxiety and depression)
Headaches and migraines
Concussions
Cognitive disorders
Reading this book felt like a doctor writing a prescription for me to keep eating my oatmeal, exercising daily, and laughing with friends. What’s not to love?
I highly recommend this book, whether you’re affected by a brain disorder or simply want to boost your overall health. It’s a pleasant and info-packed read for anyone!
This review originally appeared on action potential
Biological
Emotional/Psychological
Social
Spiritual
In my personal experience, these four dimensions are too often treated as separate entities rather than parts of a holistic approach to health. The authors do an outstanding job of weaving each together into an integrated whole.
I ordered this book at the end of 2021, and my only regret is not having read it right away. 2022 was an incredibly challenging period for my mental health — and overall health, really.
Reading this book was a compassionate reminder of the healthy lifestyle I dedicated myself to when I first decided to move away from medication in my mid-20s. Needless to say, I was long overdue for a refresher.
The Breakdown
Brain Weaver is excellent science writing in that it references peer-reviewed research and explains it in a way that’s easy and entertaining to read.
If you’re tired of hearing about how great yoga and meditation are and want to “see the proof,” this book is for you. The belly of this book is filled with color images of brain scan data that show the benefits of things like prayer and meditation.
But the best part is how clearly it’s organized. Good science writing is equal parts putting words on the page and structuring it in a way the reader will easily digest and understand.
Part One: The Basics
The first section provides fundamental information on brain health. It’s written plainly enough that anyone could pick it up, even if you’ve never read a paragraph about neuroscience or medicine in your life.
In this section, the authors cover topics like:
Nutrition
Gut health and the benefits of probiotics
Toxicity (including heavy metals, which is relevant to my current situation)
Sleep
Social networks
Spirituality
They always encourage the reader to consult with a healthcare provider, but the book provides a solid knowledge base for anyone interested in taking steps toward interventions.
Part Two: Healing Systems
This section explores an integrative approach to optimal brain health. A decent chunk of it focuses on the mental health benefits of physical exercise. I love this for many reasons.
Firstly, every recovery I’ve made from depression has begun with a renewed commitment to regular exercise. And also, I feel like there’s way too much emphasis on exercising to lose weight or achieve your ideal physical form. When you think of exercise and proper nutrition as ways to improve your health instead of reducing your body, well, it just feels… healthier.
Other chapters in this section include:
The Effects of Stress and Stress Reduction on Brainpower
Art, Music, and the Healthy Brain
The Meditative Brain
Special Tools for Brain Health
This section introduced me to some new modalities I’d like to learn more about, such as the Neuro Emotional Technique.
Part Three: Dealing with Brain Problems
The last section focuses on various brain disorders, including:
The most common psychiatric disorders (anxiety and depression)
Headaches and migraines
Concussions
Cognitive disorders
Reading this book felt like a doctor writing a prescription for me to keep eating my oatmeal, exercising daily, and laughing with friends. What’s not to love?
I highly recommend this book, whether you’re affected by a brain disorder or simply want to boost your overall health. It’s a pleasant and info-packed read for anyone!
This review originally appeared on action potential
September 20, 2022
Good author. Speaks well too.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews