DP

SOS! The Science Of Spirituality

Jun 23, 2014

JP
Stage· 100 messages
Jun 23, 2014

Internationally renowned integrative medicine experts: physician and scientist Dr. Pam Peeke, and psychologist Dr. Joan Borysenko; present groundbreaking new mind-body science that will guide the listener to the achievement of their optimal health and wellness. Using their trademark blend of wit and wisdom, these science pioneers will share simple, practical ways to apply a new, revolutionary way to live well— mind, body, and spirit.

DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:00 PM

Welcome to everyone! I'm Dr. Pam Peeke and I'm here with my wonderful friend and colleague, a real kindred spirit, Dr. Joan Borysenko. We are a "pair-o-docs!" Today we're going to dialogue about science and spirituality. Join us!
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:00 PM

Hey Pam. Lets define spirituality
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:00 PM

Yes. Let's go for it. We need to understand what spirituality is all about.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:00 PM

Its not about dogma or doctrine, its actually a collection of positive emotions- like the fruits of the spirit
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:02 PM

Love, joy, peace, trust, faith, compassion, and gimme a few more doc friend
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:03 PM

OK. And science and spirituality complement one another. How? Because a deeper sense of spirituality supports our overall wellbeing.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:03 PM

Yes, psychology and spirituality are one. Think about all the new research on happiness.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:04 PM

Spirituality is so innate with self-forgiveness along with compassion and self-acceptance.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:04 PM

We're all looking for center- what connects us to our essential nature of love, joy, peace, compassion, trust, faith...and the new field of psychology helps us get there
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:04 PM

Deeply connecting with oneself also supports interconnectedness with your universe.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:05 PM

It sure does, Pam. Most of us have had the experience of deep contentment and knowing that is greater than our individual knowledge.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:05 PM

All of this is further supported when we check in with ourselves through meditation practice. Then we have enhanced brain interconnected networks. Amazing neuroscience.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:06 PM

Yes, research on mediation has come a long way in the past 20 years.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:06 PM

So Joan, how about that neuroplasticity when the brain can take new belief systems and carve new neural circuits to support them! Incredible.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:07 PM

Does superstition play a roll in spirituality?
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:08 PM

★ Spotlighted from Dr. Beverely Whipple

“What do fMRI's show during meditation?”

JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:08 PM

Good question Jonathan. Superstition is a belief system. Spirituality is a state of mind requiring no belief system to achieve. It's our own true nature when our conditioning gets out of the way
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:09 PM

Beverly, different forms of meditation like mindfulness and TM show increased blood flow to the prefrontal cortex, enhancing creativity, vigilance and mindfulness.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:09 PM

Another fmri finding. Lovingkindness meditation lights up the nucleus accumbens- the reward center. So compassion is its own reward.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:09 PM

★ Spotlighted from Carolyn Dunow

“I would love to hear more about how you feel forgiveness impacts one's spirituality.”

DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:10 PM

Carolyn, forgiveness is integral to spirituality. Self- forgiveness and compassion are essential to reach the core of your belief in yourself, supporting this belief ongoing.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:10 PM

Forgiveness is about changing your grievance story, and finding some learning in whatever you've experienced.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:10 PM

I believe spirituality exists inside all of us and can be accessed when we "slow down" and become more conscious. Our culture requires people to figure this out on their own!
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:11 PM

Hi Sara. Joan and I agree that slowing down enough to be mindful and present and appreciate our spiritual selves is crucial.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:12 PM

Joan, let's talk about the amazing science involved with spirituality. Strong belief systems, esp in oneself, affect our brain's networks of thought processes.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:12 PM

Love is one spiritual emotion that's being researched. It reduces stress, increases positive motivation, reduces symptoms of illness.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:12 PM

★ Spotlighted from Virginia Hurley

“Do you think spirituality as described here, has an evolutionary component for survival?”

DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:13 PM

HI Virginia. I have no doubt that there is an evolutionary basis for the belief systems involved in spirituality. This expands from a sense of self to an interconnectedness to all things in our universe.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:13 PM

Cooperation is central to survival. There's a lot of research shooing that it helped our evolution. We need more of it still!
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:14 PM

I agree that love is central to this issue. Love of others is easier than of self. Such a challenge for so many, yet key to achieving optimal spirituality.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:15 PM

I think that self-hatred is at the core of stress. Self-doubt and the inability to forge ourselves. So good health requires learning how to be gentle with ourselves.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:15 PM

★ Spotlighted from William Green

“"your universe." Is that to imply everyone lives in their own universe? Or are you referring to the their of the multiverse?”

DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:15 PM

HI William. It's all about the multiverse and indeed so well said!
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:15 PM

★ Spotlighted from Virginia Hurley

“I'm thinking, now that you've said that, of Barb Fredrickson's "Broaden and Build" theory somewhat....”

DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:16 PM

Virginia, Barbara's work in positive emotion is amazing and you're right. Everyone scope out the Positivity ratio on google when this is all done.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:17 PM

Love Barb Frederickons work on compassion meditation. Read her book Love 2.0 for more info.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:17 PM

I believe we can't "skip over" ourselves when it comes to love and compassion. Accepting ourselves on all levels leads to a reduction in anxiety and depression. One way to do that seems to be listening to your body.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:17 PM

It's interesting in term of brain changes and meditation that resilience and happiness are both located in the left prefrontal cortex and stimulated by exercise as well.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:18 PM

Sara it's imperative to listen to one's body-mind as they are integrally interrelated.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:19 PM

Joan, you've seen the science on epigenetics and meditation--- where our every thought changes gene expression. Loving kindness results in gene expression to our benefit.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:20 PM

I enjoy the work of my colleague Bruce Lipton. The Biology of Belief came out a few years ago and the new research is proving Bruce correct. Our thoughts release informational molecules that chane brain function.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:21 PM

Epigenetics means "above the genes." Our genetic code changes slowly, but we have to adapt to environmental changes immediately. So cool.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:21 PM

You're so right Joan. Everyone out there should know what epigenetics is all about--- google DNA is NOT DESTINY when we're done. Superb summary. Empowering science. Every thought, mouthful or physical step we take changes gene expression.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:21 PM

I'm trying to understand the link between church, or religion to spirituality. My mother is very religious and insists I attend church, but I barely have time. Does attending church really induce a state of spirituality?
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:22 PM

HI Jonathan. I'm a recovering Catholic and I know the feeling of confusion about the role of religion and spirituality. Actually. you can be spiritual any time of day or night, any moment. Religions and churches provide one option for expressing
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:22 PM

My colleague Rachel Naomi Remen, MD compares says that religion is a bridge to the spiritual. Sometimes it succeeds and sometimes it fails. Some people get stuck on the bridge instead of crossing it, but the spiritual is beyond the religious
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:23 PM

My dream is to have meditation taught in every school system :)
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:23 PM

Sara, nothing would give Joan or myself more pleasure than seeing meditation taught from kindergarten through graduate and professional schools!
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:24 PM

Hey Pam. You're an expert in exercise. How does exercise affect epigenetics?
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:24 PM

Joan, I don't even use the E word! I say find any way you can to move your body-dance, yoga, gym, outdoors. When you do, your body gifts you with positive gene expression changes
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:25 PM

I like my Fitbit. Try to walk 10,000 steps a day. Is walking enough?
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:25 PM

I have this fantasy, Pam, that you'll use me as an exercise makeover example!
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:26 PM

Any kind of activity is wonderful, from a walking meditation in the outdoors to tai chi to a Zumba class. 10,000 steps is what is seen as optimal, accrued throughout the day, for top fitness
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:26 PM

My husband Gordie and I start the day with tai chi.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:27 PM

Eating your greens will change your gene's...expression. That means there are CH3 or methyl donors that are generated from meditation, whole foods and physical activity. They change your gene's for the better.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:27 PM

I eat at least 3 cups of greens every day. Foliage has the same root as folate- a great methyl donor.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:27 PM

★ Spotlighted from William Green

“Prayer is a form of meditation but it is generally PROHIBITED from being taught in school. Sad really. The studies on the effect of prayer are similar to those of meditation.”

DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:28 PM

★ Spotlighted from William Green

“Do those positive gene expressions from physical activity become permanent and get passed along via chromosomes to our progeny?”

JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:29 PM

Do you know Dr. Larry Dossey's work on prayer, William? He's a great mind and spirit. As long as prayer doesn't prescribe a particular religious viewpoint it would help kids a lot. And if you are religious, that's great for prayer.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:29 PM

Hi William Great question. Science shows that you have to be consistent with your practice of that lifestyle habit like meditation in order to cement its effect on gene expression. So ongoing consistency is crucial.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:29 PM

★ Spotlighted from Susan Tribby

“If a child is physically incapable (due to abuse or whatever) of empathy or attachment, can s/he still learn spirituality?”

DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:30 PM

Hi Susan. Terrific question. Read Christine Courtois's book COMPLEX TRAUMA and you'll see that a child CAN be taught how to attach and develop spirituality. They must have appropriate guidance.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:31 PM

Joan, life trauma as introduced by Susan, is a central theme in everyone's journey. Let's talk about trauma and spirituality.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:31 PM

I wrote a book called Guilt is the Teacher, Love is the lesson, which is all about healing trauma as a doorway to the spiritual.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:32 PM

Trauma also takes us to suffering in general. It's easier to navigate the trials and tribulations of life with a deep sense of self, an understanding and respect for your own unique journey.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:32 PM

★ Spotlighted from Carolyn Dunow

“So, if healthy foods and environment support our spirituality, what happens when we consume or are exposed to toxins and GMO''s?”

JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:33 PM

So tru, Pam. We all have a journey to the spiritual which is unique to our own soul and experience. Trying to fit into some one else's mold is often a problem.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:33 PM

Carolyn, this is a hot topic right now. Clearly, the more we're exposed to toxins of any kind in the environment, we change gene expression often to our detriment. Apple or Twinkie? That's the question.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:34 PM

Check out the Environmental Protection Group's annual clean and dirty produce list to see what foods are best bought organic.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:34 PM

Let's go to challenges, Joan. People are struggling hard with making changes for the better. I recommend Prochaska's book A TIME FOR CHANGE which explains the stages of change. You have to be ready. When the student is ready, the teacher appears
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:36 PM

In my book THE HUNGER FIX, I introduced a word I made up--- the EpiphaME. Yep, an awakening that is uniquely yours. That often begins the process of readiness for change. TRAUMA can do this in so many people's lives.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:36 PM

I love the model of change based on a rite of passage. First, the world crumbles. Then you enter liminal space- limen being a threshold- the time between no longer and not yet. There you either transform or give up. Finally you return with more wisdo
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:36 PM

★ Spotlighted from Virginia Hurley

“How do you approach the idea of mind and chronic pain...not the same as trauma, but sometimes related?”

JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:36 PM

I loe the word EpipahME Pam.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:37 PM

Virginia, chronic pain IS traumatic for most people. Therefore, you treat it similarly. This means you have to find ways to adapt and adjust to be able to move on. Compassion is so important here.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:37 PM

Pam, I just read an article about exercise being the best treatment for fibromyalgia, which is often related to trauma. Mind and body work together.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:37 PM

★ Spotlighted from Ellen Hill

“By virtue of us being on this TAWK with both of you (esteemed teachers), I'd venture to say that many of us are READY to explore such changes...”

DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:38 PM

HI Ellen and thanks for the shout out to us Pair-o-Docs! I'm so happy that you're ready to explore change. It involves adventure and courage!
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:38 PM

Using sloans- like Live and Let Live and Buddhist slogans (Lojong slogans) that remind you of whole teaching
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:39 PM

Sorry. Messed up the comment. Slogans cause brain changes similar to meditation.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:40 PM

Virginia, chronic pain, being trauma, means you really have to be attuned to your body in a major way. It's a body-mind proposition. Yes, shouts at times, but your navigating with compassion brings it down to a whisper.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:40 PM

★ Spotlighted from Virginia Hurley

“Is Pair-o-Dox like Paradox?”

DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:41 PM

Hey Joan, Virginia likes our Pair-o-Docs concept! LOL
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:41 PM

I like ti, too.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:43 PM

OK, Joan, people really want to understand how to navigate the stresses and challenges of life without defaulting to self-destruction. One such issue is perfectionism. I usually encourage PROGRESS not perfection. Celebrate every single tiny triumph
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:43 PM

This is where neuroplasticity comes in. We can practice noticing a behavior, stepping back mindfully, and then making a new choice. It takes time. So you're right. Progress not perfection.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:44 PM

Mindfulness is a great tool. It fires up awareness in the prefrontal cortex so when you're experineinv an emotion you know its temporary- not who you really are. then you can learn from it rather than being ruled by it.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:44 PM

If you feel like overeating, a typical stress reaction, say HALT-are you HUNGRY. ANXIOUS/ANGRY. LONELY. TIRED? Get in touch with yourself.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:45 PM

★ Spotlighted from Virginia Hurley

“Pam, remind us here of Viktor Frankl”

JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:45 PM

That's a great example of a slogan. Deep breathing is another tool. I call this gearshift breathing. Breath in mindfully thru nose, out through pursed lips slowly.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:46 PM

Hey Virginia. Of course you know I love Viktor Frankl's work, Man's Search for Meaning. Best tool from him: between stimulus and response is the power to choose in a life-giving way.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:47 PM

He was the first person to use what we now call narrative medicine. To forgive, for example, we need to change the meaning of our story to find benefit and growth.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:48 PM

Hey everyone. Joan and I have an exciting announcement. Beginning Oct 30-Nov 2, we are starting our SOS, or Save Our SELF retreats at the magnificent Miraval spa in Tucson, AZ. This first one is during the HOWLoween weekend. You in?
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:49 PM

We're going to take off our ego masks and find our authentic selves...and learn a lot while having fun!
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:50 PM

We've been plotting this for sometime and are thrilled to get it going. You're all so lucky because you're the first to know! A TAWKer's benefit indeed.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:50 PM

We're the pair-o-docs! Newly minted by Pam. I hope you'll join us at Miraval.
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:51 PM

If you're interested in the SOS retreats at Miraval, fill out the CONTACT US FORM on www.drpeeke.com or www.joanborysenko.com and we'll fill you in with the details. We're so looking forward to meeting so many people who follow our work.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:51 PM

Thanks to all of you for joining the conversation. I have tired fingers and a happy.
JP

Joan Borysenko, PH.D. · 6:52 PM

Happy heart!
DP

Dr. Pam Peeke · 6:52 PM

Take care everyone and Joan and I are so happy you joined us today. We'll be doing more in the future but for now, we're deeply grateful you're here and participated. Dr. Peeke