Life Examined is a one-hour weekly show exploring science, philosophy, faith — and finding meaning in the modern world. The show is hosted by Jonathan Bastian.
The most advanced technology ever discovered is the three pound organ encased inside our skulls. In his latest book, “Livewired” neuroscientist David Eagleman describes why our brains are constantly changing: the more the brain absorbs the more it adjusts. How has the pandemic impacted this amazing brain circuitry? And what are the impacts on children's brains, stuck at home with extended hours of screen time?
7 Sept 2020
Trauma and healing during COVID-19
California Surgeon General Dr. Nadine Burke Harris talks about the latest science behind trauma, and how toxic stress can literally change our brains, our immune systems and our genes. Also an imam and rabbi share how their faith, teachings, and prayer provide comfort and healing from trauma.
7 Sept 2020
Contemplation in isolation
The debut episode of KCRW’s show Foxhole features author Pico Iyer, who shares how these unusual times can be an opportunity for inner-growth. And a Hindu nun and Tibetan Buddhist teacher offer advice for how to quiet our minds when we’re alone and anxious.
5 Sept 2020
Finding meaning in an impermanent world
The novel coronavirus pandemic is a daily reminder of how quickly life can change. In his latest book, “Until the End of Time: Mind, Matter, and Our Search for Meaning in an Evolving Universe,” theoretical physicist Brian Greene talks about processing those changes, explores the meaning of impermanence, and explains the importance of living in the here and now.
5 Sept 2020
Grieving the loss of the world we once knew
Deepak Chopra, renowned wellness expert and author of “Metahuman: Unleashing your infinite potential (https://www.amazon.com/Metahuman-Unleashing-Your-Infinite-Potential/dp/0307338339),” Jonathan Bastian and offers his perspective on the current global pandemic. He says we are grieving an old way of life. Now is the moment to reevaluate our lives, habits and existence. Also, grief expert David Kessler (https://grief.com/meet-david-kessler/) explains why grief is an emotion that arises out of unwanted change.
4 Sept 2020
How the global pandemic has impacted our dreams?
Deirdre Barrett, dream researcher and assistant professor of psychology at Harvard University, Jonathan Bastian to discuss how the prolonged global pandemic has impacted the way we dream. Why are we having such vivid dreams at this time — and why are so many of us dreaming about bugs and jail cells?
2 Sept 2020
Finding strength, hope, and truth through poetry
Award-winning poet and essayist Jane Hirshfield joins KCRW’s Jonathan Bastian to talk about her latest collection of poems "Ledger," Buddhism, and the importance of words and imagery in times of great upheaval.
21 Aug 2020
A pilgrim’s journey: Reconnecting with faith through the pilgrimage
Author Timothy Egan talks with Jonathan Bastian about walking the Via Francigena (https://www.viefrancigene.org/en/) and how his experiences walking the pilgrim’s trail gave him a greater understanding of Christianity, life and faith.
21 Aug 2020
Theology and Black Lives Matter
Professor Yolanda Pierce, Dean of the Howard University School of Divinity, talks withJonathan Bastian about the history and the legacy of the Black church and its connection with the Black Lives Matter movement.
21 Aug 2020
Is there a way to prepare for a good death?
The pandemic has placed death and the acknowledgement of our mortality front and center in our consciousness and yet when it comes to dying, we understand little and do even less to prepare for it. Is there a good way to die? How do the funeral rights and bereavement rituals in other cultures provide solace and comfort?
21 Aug 2020
How surfer Britt Merrick found his ‘spiritual home’ among the waves
Water plays an important role in many religious practices and rituals; it’s used in baptism, birth and burial. For surfers, the ocean is more than just a physical pursuit. Waiting for the perfect wave, watching the ebb and flow of the water and experiencing sights and sounds is a relaxing, refreshing and a life-affirming experience. Do surfers have a unique relationship with God and with nature? Can the shaping and riding of surfboards provide meaning and healing after unspeakable tragedy? KCRW’s Jonathan Bastian is joined for the whole hour by avid surfer and former pastor Britt Merrick, who talks about how being in the ocean and his Christian beliefs are so interconnected.
21 Aug 2020
The mental and physical benefits of healthy breathing
The average person takes about 25,000 breaths a day but the majority of us give little thought as to how the air actually goes in or goes out of our lungs. What have we misunderstood about the breath and how can healthy breathing habits help both our physical and mental well being?
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