PsychTalks Podcast
Mindfulness, meditation and the search for authenticity.
“This idea of ‘McMindfulness’ really is [that] the traditions or the ideas from the traditions, particularly Buddhism, have been stripped of their meaning. People are looking for something to help them to make their lives more meaningful; to help make their lives better. But there’s also been this interest in the business side of things, of competing with increasing pressures on the bottom line and trying to help employees be more and more productive.”
Mindfulness and meditation are ancient practices that can now be accessed via our smart phones. Mindfulness is everywhere: mindful learning, mindful parenting, mindful business leadership — even mindful soldiers. We are told these practices reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and blood pressure. And they are being sold for billions. If something sacred has been co-opted by capitalism, is it still ‘good’ for us?
Inaugural Director of The University of Melbourne’s Contemplative Studies Centre, Associate Professor Nicholas Van Dam and I spoke with Lynne Malcolm about our search for meaningful and authentic mindfulness experiences on episode four of the Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences new PsychTalks podcast.
I invite you to listen if you would like to learn about how to navigate the often complex world of mindfulness and meditation, and what to look for if you are considering giving these practices a try via a meditation app.
Ways to Listen to the Podcast
We also recorded a loving-kindnesss meditation, which you can find alongside the podcast episode via Spotify, Apple Podcasts or Omny.