Neuroscience Supports Social Emotional Learning

Richard Davidson, a neuroscientist, has integrated neuroimaging research into a unified theory of the happy brain.  Davidson explains that there are 4 independent brain circuits that influence our lasting health and wellness.

The first circuit is "our ability to maintain positive states."  Spiritual teachers like the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu say that love and compassion is the way to happiness.

The second brain circuit is responsible for "our ability to recover from negative states."  This supports the work of resiliency which is flourishing in our school programming.

The third circuit is "our ability to focus and avoid mind wandering."  This is mindfulness, meditation, and contemplation.  Our friends Brain Aikens, Jessie McFarland and Josh Gansky are teaching children and adults this essential skill and it clearly impacts health and well-being.  Neuroscience proves the ability to focus attention is fundamental.

The fourth circuit is "our ability to be generous."  This is wonderful and powerful.  We have an entire circuit in our brain devoted to generosity.  We feel good when we are kind, loving and giving.  We also feel good when we are treated with kindness, love and generosity.  We also know those that witness kindness, love and generosity also feel healthier and happier.

Neuroscience proves, as human beings, we are hardwired for compassion, generosity, love and resiliency.

- Adapted from "The Book of Joy" by His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, 2016