The Emotional Life of Your Brain

The Emotional Life of Your Brain by Richard Davidson and Sharon Begley offers a groundbreaking look into the science of emotions, exploring how our brains shape our emotional responses and how we can harness this understanding to improve our lives. The book delves into Davidson’s research on the six emotional styles—Resilience, Outlook, Social Intuition, Self-Awareness, Sensitivity to Context, and Attention—each of which is rooted in specific neural circuits in the brain. Through this lens, the authors provide insights into how individuals can rewire their brains to cultivate healthier emotional lives.

Why read this book

• Learn about the latest research on the brain's role in shaping our emotions and behavior.
• Discover practical strategies for enhancing emotional well-being by understanding and adjusting your emotional style.
• Benefit from the combined expertise of a leading neuroscientist and an acclaimed science writer, making complex ideas accessible and engaging.
• Explore the interplay between mindfulness, meditation, and brain function, and how these practices can lead to emotional resilience and well-being.

About the Authors

Richard Davidson is a prominent neuroscientist and psychologist, best known for his work on the brain's role in emotion and emotional regulation. He is the founder of the Center for Healthy Minds at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and has been a pioneering figure in the study of neuroplasticity, particularly in relation to meditation and mindfulness. His research has been instrumental in demonstrating that the brain can change in response to experience and training, leading to improved emotional health.

Sharon Begley (1956–2021) was an American science journalist and author known for her ability to make complex scientific topics accessible to a broad audience. She wrote for Newsweek, The Wall Street Journal, and Reuters, and authored several books on topics ranging from neuroscience to behavioral science. Begley's collaboration with Davidson in The Emotional Life of Your Brain brings together her skill in clear communication with Davidson’s deep scientific knowledge, resulting in a book that is both informative and transformative.