Why people recommend it
Altered Traits by Daniel Goleman and Richard J. Davidson is a science-based exploration of how meditation genuinely changes the mind, brain, and body. Andrew Huberman repeatedly expressed his admiration for the book on Huberman Lab, calling it excellent and pointing listeners toward it when discussing neuroscience, default mode networks, and the physiological impacts of meditation. Huberman noted that while a single meditation session can prompt adjustments, repeated daily practices or longer retreats can successfully induce profound brain plasticity. Furthermore, Dr. Richard Davidson appeared on Huberman Lab to discuss states and traits, mentioning that he co-authored Altered Traits with his dear friend and colleague Daniel Goleman. Huberman highlighted the volume as a significant reference point for understanding how mental training affects overall well-being, metabolism, and stress management, frequently recommending it to anyone interested in the rigorous science behind ancient contemplative traditions.
Who recommended it
- Andrew Huberman Recommended
- Richard Davidson Discussed
Andrew Huberman — 5 mentions
“It's so great that you have a new book coming out because I, of course, read Altered Traits. I've talked about it on the podcast. I love love love the book.”
“and for that I want to point toward a book which is really kind of interesting it's not focused on growth hormone but the book is called altered traits this is the book um it's an excellent book um altered traits by Goldman and Davidson science reveals how meditation changes your mind brain and body”
“The book Altered Traits is the one that comes to mind; a group out of Wisconsin was early to the game on this.”
“I find this intriguing, as it parallels meditation; while a single meditation session may lead to brain adjustments, as detailed in the book *Altered Traits,* engaging in repeated daily short meditations or longer TM retreats can indeed induce significant brain plasticity.”
“What am I about to read you is from an excellent book that I recommend, if any of you are interested in neuroscience and things like meditation and default mode networks and things of that sort, the book is called, "Altered Traits." Science reveals how meditation changes your mind, brain and body and no, I'm not going to try and”
Richard Davidson — 1 mention
“There was a paper I wrote many, many years ago with my dear friend and colleague um Daniel Goleman, who I wrote the book Altered Traits with.”
Mentioned on the show without a named speaker — 1
“This concept is elaborated in the remarkable book 'Altered Traits: Science Reveals How Meditation Changes Your Mind, Brain, and Body' by Daniel Goleman and Richard Davidson. They have conducted excellent work and produced many writings and TED Talks on meditation. In fact, around 2016 or 2017, this book effectively captured the core elements of the science and history of meditation.”