Train Your Mind, Change Your Brain

By: Sharon Begley

Narrated by: Eliza Foss

Length: 6 hrs and 27 mins

Publisher's summary

Is change possible? Everyone who has tried and failed, wished they could be happier, or has been told they were too old to learn something, has wondered why we just seem to be stuck with ourselves. But this amazing and hopeful audiobook shows us that it is not only possible for us to control our brains but also for us to rewire them.

In late 2004, the Mind and Life Institute brought Western Scientists together with the Dalai Lama and other distinguished Buddhist masters to discuss the cutting edge research being conducted in neuroplasticity, which examines whether neurons can be changed and even grown.

The findings are as astonishing as they are helpful. Flying in the face of previous assumptions, the current research shows that not only is it possible for us to change the physical brain, but it is within reach of every single one of us.

Through research into neuroplasticity, it has been shown that we can:

Reset our happiness meter

Heal from depression, even major episodes

Learn new skills even in old age

Learn, and even teach, compassion, a critical finding for personal happiness and a more peaceful world

Surprising, encouraging, and full of good news that we all want to hear, Change Your Mind, Change Your Brain will help us not only to change our brains but also the way we approach our lives - for the better.

©2007 Mind and Life Institute (P)2007 Audio Renaissance, a division of Holtzbrinck Publishers LLC

Critic reviews

"The book holds no neuroplasticity tips, but it is a fascinating exploration of the ways the mind can change the brain." (Publishers Weekly)

Astonishing Findings - A must read

This is an excellent exposition of findings related to Neuro-Science, Psychology and measurable effects of meditation and mental training. A unique scientific enquiry into the possibilities of tomorrow.

Good stuff!

Would you listen to Train Your Mind, Change Your Brain again? Why?

Yes, without a doubt. Very fascinating, linked to research and explains in good detail the connections made in the brain.

Any additional comments?

Good read.

Absolutely Fascinating!

This is a non-stop information ride of inspiration. After listening to this book, if you're not convinced of the inherent power and influence of your thoughts, words and actions on your lives then you must have not been paying attention. Sharon outlines from both a scientific and spiritual level the ongoing development and creation that takes place within our brains. With insight from thought leaders, researchers and spiritual leaders everything comes together in a truly fascinating and captivating way. If you're skeptical about the power within and looking for the scientific and psychological proof, then place this at the top of your list.

Informative and biased

Research presented to support position is comprehensive. Albeit dated for obvious animal rights concerns. (in some cases) Supports mind over matter and nature vs. nurture philosophies by connecting them to evidence based studies.

Presents counter arguments and contests them well enough.

Biased towards Buddhism philosophy. The author is clearly aligned with Buddhist ideals and discards a potential connection of the compeling evidence proposed to other faith based philosophy. This may be bc the ongoing yearly meetings between the Dali Lama and scientists serves as the tie that connects the evidence and argument proposed.
Nevertheless it may be off putting to some readers that their ideals are not represented.

Great listen. Provides perspective on past, present and future.
Strongly recommend.

Super interesting and a Professional narrator!

the narrator? the best i ever heard! just amazing! thank you!
the content: absolutely interesting

Amazing!!

This is an amazing recopilation of the last research about the mind.
Very enlightening

Outstanding layman's summary

What did you love best about Train Your Mind, Change Your Brain?

Provided practical information without the need to sift through thousands of pages of research reports.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

There is too much valuable information to digest in one sitting.

Very inspiring & understandable presentation of important scientific discoveries

The landmark scientific studies in neuroplasticity are described so the researchers' excitement for the subject is contagious. The potential for changing our own brains, mental function and emotional intelligence is clear.

Deceptive Title

The information provided is found in research data by psychology peer groups. The reason areas received three stars is because the reader demonstrates the ability to read in a manner where the listener easily understands the dialog.
I wish I had read the reviews before purchasing this book. It is truly a waste of one credit.

Not what I expected

This book was marginally interesting, with a lot of information presented, although much of it is not new. I kept waiting for something actionable and there is just nothing there short of joining the Mind and Life Institute. In fact, it felt like a lot of the book was just promoting Buddhism and the Mind and Life Institute. I have nothing against Buddhism and will probably do some more research as a result of reading this book, but I was expecting a lot more and never got it.