Buddha’s Brain from Rick Hanson

• Describe major mechanisms of neuroplasticity.
• Explain how to build self-compassion into the brain.
• Describe the evolutionary basis of the brain’s negativity bias.
• Summarize the three basic steps of “taking in the good” (TIG).
• Integrate the fourth step of TIG to heal painful experiences.
• Explain how to activate contentment, belonging and peace.

The Promise of Self-Directed Neuroplasticity

• How the mind changes the brain
• Lessons from 2,500 years of meditative practice
• Neural circuits of self-compassion
• Getting on your own side
• Virtue, mindfulness and wisdom—resting on the neural functions of regulating, learning and selecting

The Challenge of Evolution

• Chasing carrots and dodging sticks
• The negativity bias of the brain
• How that bias undermines psychotherapy

The Power of Implicit Memory

• Memory systems, explicit and implicit
• The importance of inner resources
• Factors of neuroplasticity

Taking in the Good

• Turning good facts into good experiences
• Savoring positive emotions and perspectives
• Priming implicit memory systems
• Working with children
• Why it’s good to feel good
• Living gratefully

Clearing Old Pain

• Exploiting the “weak link” in memory consolidation
• Pairing positive experiences with old pain
• Special considerations for trauma

Natural Happiness

• The resting state of the brain: Calm, contented, caring
• The brain’s three motivational systems: Approach, Attach, Avoid
• The reactive mode of greed, heartache and hatred (broadly defined)
• How to build up the neural circuits of the responsive mode of gladness, love and peace