Harnessing the Power of Meditation: Lessons from “Altered Traits” by Goleman and Davidson
“The original aim, embraced in some circles to this day, focuses on a deep exploration of the mind toward a profound alteration of our very being.”
This thought-provoking quote from “Altered Traits” by Daniel Goleman and Richard J. Davidson sets the tone for a deep dive into meditation. The book offers critical insights into the transformative power of meditation, illustrating how it goes beyond fleeting states to create enduring traits.
The primary focus of “Altered Traits” is the idea that meditation, if practiced consistently and correctly, can lead to lasting changes in our behavior and outlook. These changes are not just evident during or immediately after meditation but also shape our daily lives. The authors use the term “altered traits” to describe these enduring characteristics that arise from a consistent meditation practice.
The authors suggest that meditation is like any other sport, the end results vary depending on what you do. They emphasize the importance of finding a meditation practice that appeals to you and sticking with it to achieve the greatest benefits. The benefits from one type of meditation practice get stronger the more total hours of practice you put in.
