The Buddha, the Brain, and Bach: Exploring Practice in Mind, Music, and Life
With Barbara Bogatin, Nikki Mirghafori and Clifford Saron
September 16 - 20, 2024
You are what you practice. Or, as the Buddha said, “Whatever you frequently reflect and ponder upon, that becomes the inclination of your mind.”
This essential observation is examined from our intertwined perspectives on contemplative practice, brain science, and music. Through interactive inquiries and guided meditations, Nikki Mirghafori will lead a journey into mindfulness and compassion cultivation. Neuroscientist Clifford Saron will take us on a voyage of discovery into the mysteries of the brain and neuroplasticity. San Francisco Symphony cellist Barbara Bogatin will inspire us with Bach and provide a rare glimpse from inside the process of musical creativity.
Each day unfolds with a thematic focus, allowing us to dive deep into the three intertwined practices and perspectives. Together, we will:
- Experience guided meditations on the themes of samatha (concentration), vipassana (insight), and metta (loving kindness), and their application to daily life.
- Learn how scientists understand the impact of musical and meditative practice on our brains and bodies as revealed through current research.
- Understand how mindfulness practice enhances musical craft and expression.
- Share ongoing learning in group discussions and inquiries.
- Exult in the joy of music through deep listening to live cello performances.
This workshop is for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of themselves and their connection to others through the lens of mindfulness, science, and creativity. Whether you’re a meditator, musician, clinician, or simply curious, you’ll find valuable tools and perspectives to enrich your personal and professional life. No previous experience in meditation, music, or brain research is necessary!
Join us for this unique exploration of how these practices can harmonize, offering paths to inner peace and more joyful engagement with the world.
Qualified participants can receive 18 CE credits via the Spiritual Competency Academy. Click HERE to learn more.
About the Leaders
Barbara Bogatin
Barbara Bogatin has been a cellist with the San Francisco Symphony since 1994. She studied at the Juilliard School and has performed with the New York Philharmonic, New York Chamber Soloists, Chamber Music Northwest, Casals Festival, Lucerne Festival, and Paris GroupMuse. Email Me www.barbarabogatin.com
Learn more about Barbara Bogatin
Nikki Mirghafori
Nikki Mirghafori, PhD, is an empowered Buddhist teacher, Stanford University-trained compassion cultivation instructor, former Berkeley academic, artificial intelligence scientist, start-up advisor and author. She serves on the Teachers Council and the Board of Directors at Spirit Rock and Insight Meditation Center. www.NikkiMirghafori.com
Learn more about Nikki Mirghafori
Clifford Saron
Clifford Saron, PhD, is a research neuroscientist at the Center for Mind and Brain and MIND Institute at UC Davis, investigates meditation, well-being and cognition from multidisciplinary perspectives. He also studies sensory and multisensory processing in children with autism spectrum disorder. mindbrain.ucdavis.edu
Learn more about Clifford SaronCategories : Creativity & Culture, Mindfulness & Spirituality