Practical Wisdom with Dr. Rick Hanson Three Ways to Steady Your Mind
Jan 7, 2026
Practical steps to steady a restless mind using three pathways: intention, calm, and warm-heartedness. Short calming tools like breath work and seclusion are highlighted. The talk ties these practices to trauma-sensitive mindfulness and explains why kindness and contentment help regulate the brain.
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Feeling Discombobulated Sparked Practice
- Rick Hanson describes feeling "discombobulated" from multitasking, politics, and worry before recalling Buddhist teachings.
- That memory prompted him to slow down, meditate before bed, and revalue steadiness of presence.
Stability Of Mind As Practical Goal
- Stability of mind (steadiness of presence) is a core practical goal that reduces stress, distraction, and reactivity.
- Rick Hanson ties this to Buddhist pillars: restraint, concentration, and wisdom as foundations for steadiness.
Intend With A Gentle Middle Path
- Set an intention for steadiness using both top-down instructions and bottom-up attraction to the felt experience.
- Avoid harshness: aim for the middle path of neither halting nor straining when cultivating intention.
