The neurophilosophy of meditation

Abstract

Meditation is the art and science of optimal self-integration. We are naturally nested in Nature. Meditation is being at-peace with oneself and at-home in the world. It is the art of self-observation, learning, and developing presence of mind and selfless love. It is a unique mode of being present in the moment. It is a natural state of health and happiness. We should let go of the vicious cycle of negative feelings and discover the virtuous cycle of positive feelings like joy, cheerfulness, equanimity, friendliness, compassion, and love. This is possible through meditative practices like yoga, mindfulness, flow-state, and nature-experience. With advancement in neurobiology, we can understand how these meditative skills are learned, developed, evolved, and mastered. These meditative skills and lifestyle are the key to positive psychology and mental health. These secular meditative practices are being recommended in our education and health care systems.