Overview

Discover how meditation influences the brain, body, and mind through the lens of modern biological science.

This full-color textbook integrates contemplative practice with contemporary research in neuroscience, physiology, psychology, and molecular biology. Designed for students, educators, and intellectually curious readers, the book presents an evidence-based exploration of how meditation shapes nervous system function, attention, emotional regulation, stress physiology, and even gene expression.

Grounded in peer-reviewed research and written in clear, student-centered language, the text balances scientific rigor with reflective inquiry. Whether used in a structured course or for independent study, it offers a research-informed foundation for understanding meditation from a biological perspective.

What This Book Explores

• The neuroscience of attention, emotion, and memory
• The physiology of breath, heart rate, and the autonomic nervous system
• Neuroplasticity, hormones, and the placebo effect
• Brain waves and states of consciousness
• The biology of plants in spiritual traditions and meditative environments

Whether used in a classroom or for independent study, the book offers a structured and research-informed foundation for understanding meditation from a biological perspective.

What this Book Offers

• Integration of neuroscience, physiology, and psychology within a coherent biological framework
• Designed for undergraduate instruction across disciplines
• Full-color scientific diagrams and research figures throughout
• Emphasis on scientific literacy and critical evaluation of evidence
• Structured reflection prompts and discussion questions for classroom use

Formats & Access

Print Edition

• Bound softcover (8.5 × 11 inches, 315 pages)
• Full-color cover and interior

Digital PDF Edition

The full digital edition is available for separate purchase.

Book Details

Format: Softcover (8.5 × 11 inches)
Extent: 315 pages, full color
ISBN: 979-8-9995451-0-7
Library of Congress Control Number (LCCN): 2025915293
Publisher: Mindful Science Press

Purchase Options

Print (Softcover) — $87

Digital PDF — $45

For Educators

This textbook includes chapter-level reflection questions and journaling prompts suitable for classroom integration. Quiz and exam bank materials are available for instructors upon request.

Faculty interested in course adoption may visit the Adoptions Page for desk copy requests and adoption information.

Vendors

Please see Vendors page

About the Author

Dr. Peter J. Melcher is a professor of biology whose teaching and research interests include plant physiology, systems biology, and contemplative science. His work integrates scientific inquiry with longstanding questions about consciousness, attention, and human experience.