Can spiritual practice rewire your brain? The science says yes.
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Andrew Newberg, a physician, neuroscientist, and pioneer in the field of neurotheology — the study of how spiritual practices affect the brain.
Dr. Newberg has spent decades studying the brain during spiritual practices like meditation and prayer. His key finding: mindfulness and reflection don’t just feel good— they physically reshape the brain, helping you feel calmer, clearer, and more connected.
Whether you’re deeply religious, spiritual-but-not-religious, or just curious about the brain’s hidden potential— this episode might change how you see healing forever.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
🧠 Why 8 billion people perceive reality differently— and what that reveals about truth, belief, and the brain
🧬 The four core dimensions of healing: biological, psychological, social, and spiritual
🧘♀️ What brain scans show during meditation, prayer, and trauma recovery
🌊 Why “surrender” is a powerful and measurable brain state linked to transformation
💫 How rituals, community, and individualized practices impact your well-being
🙏 How people of any faith (or none at all) can access deep healing through spiritual practices
🧩 Why your biology, upbringing, and environment may shape your health more than you realize
Get 30 Days Free on Aura at: https://www.aurahealth.io/podcast30
Join 8 million+ using Aura to find peace & transform their lives today. Code auto-applied at checkout.
Connect with Dr. Newberg:
Website: https://www.andrewnewberg.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.andrewnewberg/?hl=en
🎧 Listen & Subscribe here!
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@lightwithinpodcast
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/light-within-by-aura/id1817230276
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3bagyehVCa2oVxFJwOo16b
💌 Want new episode drops, expert mental health tips, and wellness wisdom straight to your inbox? Subscribe to the Light Within newsletter here: https://www.aurahealth.io/lightwithin#subscribe
📲 Follow us here:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lightwithinpodcast/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lightwithinpodcast?_t=ZP-8v1c5YXw2il&_r=1
Connect with Steve & Daniel:
Steve’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevewithlight/
Daniel’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielwithaura/