161: Can Science Measure Spiritual Experiences? Neuroscience of Awe, Meditation & Healing with Nicco Reggente
About this episode
Dr. Lorne Brown and Dr. Nicco Reggente discuss the neuroscience behind spiritual experiences and the measurement of transformative states.
What happens in the brain and body when we experience awe, deep meditation, chills, insight, or profound moments of connection? In this episode Dr. Lorne Brown sits down with cognitive neuroscientist, UCLA lecturer, and Institute for Advanced Consciousness Studies co-founder Dr. Nicco Regente to explore the science behind non-ordinary states of consciousness. Together, they discuss meditation, heart-brain dynamics, immersive technologies, psychedelic-inspired experiences, belief change, interoception, and the fascinating neuroscience of “chills” — those goosebump-inducing moments that may signal meaningful shifts in perception and understanding. Nicco shares how emerging research is helping scientists measure transformative states and why openness, curiosity, and awe may play a crucial role in human flourishing. Key Takeaways: Non-ordinary states may help reduce internal noise and support meaningful belief change. Stroboscopic light technology may produce rapid state changes similar to longer meditation sessions. Repeated experiences alone do not guarantee transformation; integration is essential. Chills and goosebumps may reflect moments of deep learning and worldview updating…
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