Rick Hanson, a neuropsychologist, is also the author of Buddha Brain, another book about personal growth. In both these books he uses the principles of neuroscience and neuroplasticity and Buddhist contemplative practices to show how people can actually change their brains by the things they think. It sounds incredible, yet he backs up his claims with current research in brain science.
The best thing about the book Just One Thing is that Dr. Hanson has a way of explaining the concepts so that even readers who have never cracked open a science book can easily understand them. He goes to the root causes of suffering and unhappiness, and gently explains the simple practices that will train the mind and build up the neural cortex to increase happiness and satisfaction.
Fifty-Two Practices for Happiness
In Just One Thing, Dr. Hanson introduces fifty-two things to do to improve the brain. He suggests doing one thing at a time, concentrating on it to gain inner focus. He states "neurons that fire together, wire together," indicating that focusing on one area will strengthen that area of the mind. One suggestion is to choose one thing a week, and make this book a guide to a year-long practice. However, that’s just a suggestion.
The book may be used in any way that suits the reader. One can do the practices in order, skip around, spend just one day on each practice, or any other method that feels comfortable. The goal is to develop concentration and focus, also called mindfulness.
Some examples of practices include those that focus on being good to oneself. In this chapter, Dr. Hanson reasons with the reader about what compassion feels like and how most people are willing to extend compassion to others. This practice turns inward, helping readers realize how to be compassionate with their own selves. He advises to be patient and allow for mistakes without becoming overly critical or upset. Set aside time to slow down and relax. Get more sleep.
Another example of the practices he suggests focus on enjoying life. These are as simple as remembering to smile and to take time to experience joy and beauty in daily life. According to the book, if people focus on negative things it leads their minds into unhappiness. By focusing on the one thing that went right in a day instead of the ninety-nine things that went wrong, it will lead the mind to happiness and contentment.
One more example involves finding things to enjoy, and accepting personal limits. He advises the readers to be curious and ask questions, be generous to ourselves and to others, and to dream big. Having things to enjoy and dreams to aspire to increases satisfaction in life and the will to go on.
Using Science and Dharma to Build Happiness
In addition to the book, available in print and e-book editions, Dr. Rick Hanson’s website offers slideshows from his teaching presentations, downloadable media interviews, and a weekly newsletter. He also has a YouTube channel, Buddha’s Brain, and a Facebook page.
Dr. Hanson comes across in his books as a kind and patient teacher, helping all students achieve their highest goals. He allows for differences, yet comes back to the basic practice of focusing attention on specific things to build happiness. As a person continues practicing mindfulness, physical changes occur in the brain and the immune system. By using these fifty-two simple practices, just one thing at a time, one can have a happier and healthier life.
Source:
- Hanson, Rick, Ph.D., Just One Thing, published by New Harbinger Publications, Oakland, CA, 2011. ISBN-10: 1608820319 ISBN-13: 978-1608820313
Suzanne Pitner - Suzanne Pitner is a teacher and published writer. A member of RWA and YARWA, she writes fiction as Suzanne Lilly.
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