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Living in a Mindful Universe: A Neurosurgeon's Journey into the Heart of Consciousness
In 2008, Dr Eben Alexander's brain was severely damaged by a devastating case of bacterial meningitis, and he lapsed into a weeklong coma. It was almost certainly a death sentence, but Dr Alexander miraculously survived - and brought back with him an astounding story. During those seven days in coma, he was plunged into the deepest realms of consciousness, and came to understand profound truths about the universe we inhabit. What he learned changed everything he knew about the brain mind, and consciousness and drove him to ask a question confounding the entire scientific How do you explain the origins of consciousness if it is not a byproduct of the brain?
In Living in a Mindful Universe, the New York Times bestselling author of Proof of Heaven and The Map of Heaven shares his insights into the true nature of consciousness. Embracing his radically new worldview, he began a committed program of personal exploration into non-local consciousness. Along the way, he met Karen Newell, who had spent most of her lifetime living the worldview he had only just discovered was possible. Her personal knowledge came from testing various techniques and theories as part of her daily routine. With Living in a Mindful Universe, they share techniques that can be used to tap into our greater mind and explore how the power of the heart can enhance healing, relationships, creativity, guidance and more. Using various modalities related to meditation and mindfulness described herein, you too can gain the power to access that infinite source of knowing so vital to us all.
In Living in a Mindful Universe, the New York Times bestselling author of Proof of Heaven and The Map of Heaven shares his insights into the true nature of consciousness. Embracing his radically new worldview, he began a committed program of personal exploration into non-local consciousness. Along the way, he met Karen Newell, who had spent most of her lifetime living the worldview he had only just discovered was possible. Her personal knowledge came from testing various techniques and theories as part of her daily routine. With Living in a Mindful Universe, they share techniques that can be used to tap into our greater mind and explore how the power of the heart can enhance healing, relationships, creativity, guidance and more. Using various modalities related to meditation and mindfulness described herein, you too can gain the power to access that infinite source of knowing so vital to us all.
288 pages, Paperback
Published December 2, 2021
479 people are currently reading
1999 people want to read
About the author
Eben Alexander
37 books370 followersEben Alexander III (born December 11, 1953) is an American neurosurgeon and the author of the book Proof of Heaven: A Neurosurgeon's Journey into the Afterlife, in which he describes his 2008 near-death experience and asserts that science can and will determine that the brain does not create consciousness and that consciousness survives bodily death.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
January 21, 2018
3.75 stars. I will preface this review with a disclaimer: I have always been drawn to texts that deal with the metaphysical, and if you are a straight up materialist this book isn't for you. If you have an open mind towards the fact that there may be things beyond what our five senses can perceive, then read on.
The promise that Living in a Mindful Universe would marry ideas of science and spirituality, and explore the idea of non-local consciousness, immediately drew my attention. And the book does, although I'm not sure if the authors were as successful as they could have been in holding my interest.
The book constantly refers to Alexander's Near Death Experience (NDE) and assumes the reader already has some familiarity with his story. I have not read any of his other texts, however, so I really felt left out of the discussion. Apparently these details are discussed in Proof of Heaven. I would not recommend this book if you have not first read any of his prior works. Perhaps this is why I found the first three chapters dull.
Things get more interesting as the chapters go on. My favorite discussion was his work with binaural beats and how certain sounds can induce experiences similar to an NDE. I even requested the 20 minute free sample, but sadly it hasn't arrived yet. Bummer. I'm ready to prep for what some Buddhists refer to as the direct perception of emptiness! I also enjoyed the discussions of quantum physics and potential avenues for discovery. I was surprised to learn there are places that use scientific methods to study mediums and reincarnation. The reminder that it’s important to cultivate unconditional love was most timely. The inclusion of a story featuring Ram Dass at the end was a nice surprise, and funny enough, the quotes at the beginnings of the chapters were fantastic.
Having read a number of new age spiritual books in the 90s, I applaud the authors of this book for not coming across as campy or providing fluffy entertainment. This does mean, however, that at times the proofs offered up to support his thesis are dry. Nonetheless I highly recommend this book for those on a spiritual path.
The promise that Living in a Mindful Universe would marry ideas of science and spirituality, and explore the idea of non-local consciousness, immediately drew my attention. And the book does, although I'm not sure if the authors were as successful as they could have been in holding my interest.
The book constantly refers to Alexander's Near Death Experience (NDE) and assumes the reader already has some familiarity with his story. I have not read any of his other texts, however, so I really felt left out of the discussion. Apparently these details are discussed in Proof of Heaven. I would not recommend this book if you have not first read any of his prior works. Perhaps this is why I found the first three chapters dull.
Things get more interesting as the chapters go on. My favorite discussion was his work with binaural beats and how certain sounds can induce experiences similar to an NDE. I even requested the 20 minute free sample, but sadly it hasn't arrived yet. Bummer. I'm ready to prep for what some Buddhists refer to as the direct perception of emptiness! I also enjoyed the discussions of quantum physics and potential avenues for discovery. I was surprised to learn there are places that use scientific methods to study mediums and reincarnation. The reminder that it’s important to cultivate unconditional love was most timely. The inclusion of a story featuring Ram Dass at the end was a nice surprise, and funny enough, the quotes at the beginnings of the chapters were fantastic.
Having read a number of new age spiritual books in the 90s, I applaud the authors of this book for not coming across as campy or providing fluffy entertainment. This does mean, however, that at times the proofs offered up to support his thesis are dry. Nonetheless I highly recommend this book for those on a spiritual path.
Read
December 1, 2024I guess you can change a lot about a neurosurgeon, even to the point that he will believe in the supernatural over science
But what you cannot change is that he will still be annoying
But what you cannot change is that he will still be annoying
December 16, 2017
I came upon this book recently and pounced on it. Having read his book, Proof of Heaven, I was eager to follow him on his journey of consciousness and pushing the boundaries that have separated science from spirituality. He does this in a clear and magnificent way. He writes as a scientist/surgeon/brillant mind/Near Death Experience. Put all these factors together I have trust and deep interest in what he writes, along with his co-author Karen Newell. I discovered a
kindred spirit. In my continued search of spiritual wisdom and scientific findings about life after death and connections to the other side while we live on earth, Alexander and other writers help me with fresh insights and understanding.
kindred spirit. In my continued search of spiritual wisdom and scientific findings about life after death and connections to the other side while we live on earth, Alexander and other writers help me with fresh insights and understanding.
August 5, 2021
If this book had stuck to discussions of consciousness, reality, and quantum physics, I’d have given it more stars, those parts were great. But it just got waaay too new-age for me. Also, to any potential readers, I’d highly recommend going in with a critical eye, as there are a lot of leaps of faith in here.
June 9, 2018
Living in a Mindful Universe: A Neurosurgeon's Journey into the Heart of Consciousness captured and held my attention. I was torn between giving it four or five stars. I decided upon 4 because there were times when he ventured off the path a bit but in reality, it is a solid 4.5.
I loved this book because this neurosurgeon's recounting of how his experience during a week-long coma (and his 2% chance of survival) challenged his orthodox Western medical and scientific paradigm of materialism and view that our consciousness is a by-product of the brain. Alexander shares his inexplicable vivid and mystical experience during coma and argues that energy is consciousness and that consciousness creates matter, not the other way around. In doing so, he comes to understand the power of understanding that we're all one (connected), and that unconditional love has the power to heal.
Reading about how this skeptical, left-brain "prove it to me" doctor was transformed in the blink of an eye, inspired me and will make you think about what is real and important in life. It's an important read because it relates to the kind of world we co-create and how we treat and each other.
I loved this book because this neurosurgeon's recounting of how his experience during a week-long coma (and his 2% chance of survival) challenged his orthodox Western medical and scientific paradigm of materialism and view that our consciousness is a by-product of the brain. Alexander shares his inexplicable vivid and mystical experience during coma and argues that energy is consciousness and that consciousness creates matter, not the other way around. In doing so, he comes to understand the power of understanding that we're all one (connected), and that unconditional love has the power to heal.
Reading about how this skeptical, left-brain "prove it to me" doctor was transformed in the blink of an eye, inspired me and will make you think about what is real and important in life. It's an important read because it relates to the kind of world we co-create and how we treat and each other.
March 26, 2018
I love Alexander's story. I read his first two books when they first came out. The two reasons I gave this book 4 stars and not 5 is because 1) I thought it was going to be more about the bridge between quantum physics and spirituality ( but that's on me, not the author); and 2) near the end I felt there was a lot of filler material that wasn't necessary to his purpose, and frankly became bored and wanted to hurry and finish the book. For example: the entire episode of whale watching with his new friend. I don't want to be judgemental, but I felt almost betrayed by his divorce and subsequent "soul mate." I have invested a lot in Eban's story, having bought all his books and cds and listened to hours of him speaking, and then to learn that all his wisdom and insight gained as a result of his experience didn't help him in finding ways to stay true to his family. It just seems that he moved away from his old life too quickly to start a new life with another woman. Why would he want to hurt his family like that if he was all about love now. I was disappointed, I guess, to learn that after such a spiritual experience, you are still human.
December 23, 2017
This was a great follow-up to the author's book, Proof of Heaven. I would definitely recommend reading Proof of Heaven prior to reading this book for a richer experience and understanding.
September 5, 2019
I wrote the book, thus will instead post reviews by other professionals endorsing the book:
Living in a Mindful Universe is a compelling introduction to a vitally important and rapidly unfolding paradigm shift in science. It highlights the decline of a nihilistic worldview held by scientists for centuries, where consciousness was a meaningless side effect of brain activity, to the rise of a far more comprehensive worldview where consciousness is the fundamental "glue" that defines reality itself.
Dean Radin, PhD, Chief Scientist, Institute of Noetic Sciences
Similar to Einstein, Eben, a man of science, delves into the Spiritual Oneness. He realizes that there are many paths up the mountain and they end up in the same place. As a result of understandings that Eben encountered during his coma, he succinctly conveys familiarity with many planes of consciousness, and the way he demonstrates this awareness is fascinating.
Ram Dass, author of Be Here Now
Numerous books have been written about consciousness, mind, soul, and love, but nobody has put them together in such an ingenious way as Dr. Eben Alexander. His book LIVING IN A MINDFUL UNIVERSE will bring its readers a road map for life that is desperately needed in these times of stress, conflict, and confusion. It not only deals with life after death but how to live a more meaningful existence right here and right now.
Stanley Krippner, Ph.D., co-author Personal Mythology
Dr. Eben Alexander's case history is one of the most important in the history of medicine. The fact that he physically survives his illness is astonishing, but his account of a journey during his coma to a resplendent domain that operates according to the principle of boundless love is even more surprising. Alexander's experience shows that the dismal, vacuous view of materialism, which guarantees total annihilation of consciousness with physical death, is almost certainly wrong.
Larry Dossey, MD, Author: ONE MIND
With a background in neurosurgery and having had direct experience of non-ordinary aspects of reality, Eben Alexander is a unique and valuable cultural asset in our efforts to develop a more mature understanding of the nature of self and world. In this delightful and mind-opening book, Eben and Karen take us with them on their journey of exploration subsequent to Eben's NDE. They show that the insights they have had are accessible to any one of us, and that sane, coherent, non-materialist views of reality not only exist, but are no longer fringe.
Bernardo Kastrup, author of Brief Peaks Beyond and Beyond Allegory
Living in a Mindful Universe goes beyond Dr. Alexander's previous books in showing how science and spirituality are coming together to give us a more complete understanding of consciousness, meaning, and purpose in the universe -- and in describing how we can realize our role in it.
Bruce Greyson, MD, Division of Perceptual Studies (DOPS), University of Virginia, co-editor of The Handbook of Near-Death Experiences
In this third book based upon his extraordinary experiences during a coma induced by bacterial meningitis, Eben Alexander provides new information about the coma and its aftermath, connects his experiences with world-wide and world-old mystical traditions, and links experiences of this sort with modern developments in physics. An exciting new journey of scientific self-discovery is certainly underway.
Edward F. Kelly, PhD, DOPS, University of Virginia, and lead author of Irreducible Mind (2007) and Beyond Physicalism (2015).
In this impressive book, Eben Alexander gives us a frank and very personal account of the life-changing transformation following his deep-coma experience. He shares with us ... his newly obtained insight in the mystery of the Collective Mind. This perspicuously written book will bring deeper understanding of the nature of the human spirit, and gives us all a greater knowledge about the nature of reality. Highly recommended.
Pim van Lommel, MD, cardiologist, author of Consciousness Beyond Life
Eben Alexander and Karen Newell, two of the brightest and most sensitive people I know, have written a truly wonderful new book. Their book is both a personal journal of their spiritual quest and a practical manual for the care, education and nourishment of the soul.
Raymond Moody, MD, PhD, author of Life After Life and Glimpses of Eternity
In Living in a Mindful Universe, Eben Alexander and Karen Newell explore the worlds of both science and spirit. They offer clear explanations of findings that challenge the Supreme Illusion of everyday physical reality, along with frank accounts of their own efforts to connect more with the Collective Mind. The result is a work filled with wisdom and compassion.
Jim B. Tucker, MD, New York Times best selling author of Return to Life:Extraordinary Cases of Children Who Remember Past Lives
While eloquently telling us about the Mindful Universe, Eben Alexander and Karen Newell skillfully and beautifully drive home a timely and important message:You are not just part of a self aware and ever evolving universe, you are the one that gives it awareness and is evolving it! You are your universe. The authors make the compelling case that the future of our world and the future vision for our universe lies directly in our hands and in the choices we make.
Dr. Rudolph E. Tanzi, Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, New York Times Best Selling Author of Super Brain and Super Genes
As a neurosurgeon previously steeped in materialism until his beliefs were shattered by a near death experience, Alexander is in a unique position of being able to provide a more comprehensive description of the true nature of reality than conventional science or spirituality can offer, which he delivers with great elegance within the pages of this book. Living in a Mindful Universe not only shatters conventional boundaries that traditionally separated science from spirituality, but also provides us with important insights on how to apply this understanding to our lives, which is much needed and so important in the fearful world we seem to be living in today!
Anita Moorjani ~~ New York Times BestSelling Author Dying to be Me
I have great admiration for Dr. Eben Alexander, because he didn't ignore something that science cannot (currently) explain--namely, a detailed near-death experience when his brain was clinically incapacitated. Highly recommended for anyone looking to harness the power of the human mind!
−Kelly Turner, PhD, New York Times bestselling author of Radical Remission: Surviving Cancer Against All Odds
A very important book, with rich stories illustrating a world beyond the limits of materialistic science and one neurosurgeon's quest to rethink everything he has learned. Dr. Alexander's humbleness, along with the wise counsel of Karen Newell, is a roadmap for those wishing to bridge science and spirit and enter into a life of wonder and magic. And, it's a great read!
William Arntz, Creator of What the BLEEP Do We Know!?
Having previously accepted the philosophy of 'scientific materialism' as the ultimate truth, Dr. Alexander found that his life-transforming near-death experience during coma had shattered all of his former beliefs about the nature of consciousness, the roles of the mind and brain, and the meaning of life and death. His emergent understanding, which parallels much of the awakening in the modern scientific community, is presented in Living in a Mindful Universe, which illuminates the many steps he took to expand his understanding of a much larger, richer, and deeper cosmos.
Bill Guggenheim, Coauthor of Hello From Heaven!
Living in a Mindful Universe is a compelling introduction to a vitally important and rapidly unfolding paradigm shift in science. It highlights the decline of a nihilistic worldview held by scientists for centuries, where consciousness was a meaningless side effect of brain activity, to the rise of a far more comprehensive worldview where consciousness is the fundamental "glue" that defines reality itself.
Dean Radin, PhD, Chief Scientist, Institute of Noetic Sciences
Similar to Einstein, Eben, a man of science, delves into the Spiritual Oneness. He realizes that there are many paths up the mountain and they end up in the same place. As a result of understandings that Eben encountered during his coma, he succinctly conveys familiarity with many planes of consciousness, and the way he demonstrates this awareness is fascinating.
Ram Dass, author of Be Here Now
Numerous books have been written about consciousness, mind, soul, and love, but nobody has put them together in such an ingenious way as Dr. Eben Alexander. His book LIVING IN A MINDFUL UNIVERSE will bring its readers a road map for life that is desperately needed in these times of stress, conflict, and confusion. It not only deals with life after death but how to live a more meaningful existence right here and right now.
Stanley Krippner, Ph.D., co-author Personal Mythology
Dr. Eben Alexander's case history is one of the most important in the history of medicine. The fact that he physically survives his illness is astonishing, but his account of a journey during his coma to a resplendent domain that operates according to the principle of boundless love is even more surprising. Alexander's experience shows that the dismal, vacuous view of materialism, which guarantees total annihilation of consciousness with physical death, is almost certainly wrong.
Larry Dossey, MD, Author: ONE MIND
With a background in neurosurgery and having had direct experience of non-ordinary aspects of reality, Eben Alexander is a unique and valuable cultural asset in our efforts to develop a more mature understanding of the nature of self and world. In this delightful and mind-opening book, Eben and Karen take us with them on their journey of exploration subsequent to Eben's NDE. They show that the insights they have had are accessible to any one of us, and that sane, coherent, non-materialist views of reality not only exist, but are no longer fringe.
Bernardo Kastrup, author of Brief Peaks Beyond and Beyond Allegory
Living in a Mindful Universe goes beyond Dr. Alexander's previous books in showing how science and spirituality are coming together to give us a more complete understanding of consciousness, meaning, and purpose in the universe -- and in describing how we can realize our role in it.
Bruce Greyson, MD, Division of Perceptual Studies (DOPS), University of Virginia, co-editor of The Handbook of Near-Death Experiences
In this third book based upon his extraordinary experiences during a coma induced by bacterial meningitis, Eben Alexander provides new information about the coma and its aftermath, connects his experiences with world-wide and world-old mystical traditions, and links experiences of this sort with modern developments in physics. An exciting new journey of scientific self-discovery is certainly underway.
Edward F. Kelly, PhD, DOPS, University of Virginia, and lead author of Irreducible Mind (2007) and Beyond Physicalism (2015).
In this impressive book, Eben Alexander gives us a frank and very personal account of the life-changing transformation following his deep-coma experience. He shares with us ... his newly obtained insight in the mystery of the Collective Mind. This perspicuously written book will bring deeper understanding of the nature of the human spirit, and gives us all a greater knowledge about the nature of reality. Highly recommended.
Pim van Lommel, MD, cardiologist, author of Consciousness Beyond Life
Eben Alexander and Karen Newell, two of the brightest and most sensitive people I know, have written a truly wonderful new book. Their book is both a personal journal of their spiritual quest and a practical manual for the care, education and nourishment of the soul.
Raymond Moody, MD, PhD, author of Life After Life and Glimpses of Eternity
In Living in a Mindful Universe, Eben Alexander and Karen Newell explore the worlds of both science and spirit. They offer clear explanations of findings that challenge the Supreme Illusion of everyday physical reality, along with frank accounts of their own efforts to connect more with the Collective Mind. The result is a work filled with wisdom and compassion.
Jim B. Tucker, MD, New York Times best selling author of Return to Life:Extraordinary Cases of Children Who Remember Past Lives
While eloquently telling us about the Mindful Universe, Eben Alexander and Karen Newell skillfully and beautifully drive home a timely and important message:You are not just part of a self aware and ever evolving universe, you are the one that gives it awareness and is evolving it! You are your universe. The authors make the compelling case that the future of our world and the future vision for our universe lies directly in our hands and in the choices we make.
Dr. Rudolph E. Tanzi, Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, New York Times Best Selling Author of Super Brain and Super Genes
As a neurosurgeon previously steeped in materialism until his beliefs were shattered by a near death experience, Alexander is in a unique position of being able to provide a more comprehensive description of the true nature of reality than conventional science or spirituality can offer, which he delivers with great elegance within the pages of this book. Living in a Mindful Universe not only shatters conventional boundaries that traditionally separated science from spirituality, but also provides us with important insights on how to apply this understanding to our lives, which is much needed and so important in the fearful world we seem to be living in today!
Anita Moorjani ~~ New York Times BestSelling Author Dying to be Me
I have great admiration for Dr. Eben Alexander, because he didn't ignore something that science cannot (currently) explain--namely, a detailed near-death experience when his brain was clinically incapacitated. Highly recommended for anyone looking to harness the power of the human mind!
−Kelly Turner, PhD, New York Times bestselling author of Radical Remission: Surviving Cancer Against All Odds
A very important book, with rich stories illustrating a world beyond the limits of materialistic science and one neurosurgeon's quest to rethink everything he has learned. Dr. Alexander's humbleness, along with the wise counsel of Karen Newell, is a roadmap for those wishing to bridge science and spirit and enter into a life of wonder and magic. And, it's a great read!
William Arntz, Creator of What the BLEEP Do We Know!?
Having previously accepted the philosophy of 'scientific materialism' as the ultimate truth, Dr. Alexander found that his life-transforming near-death experience during coma had shattered all of his former beliefs about the nature of consciousness, the roles of the mind and brain, and the meaning of life and death. His emergent understanding, which parallels much of the awakening in the modern scientific community, is presented in Living in a Mindful Universe, which illuminates the many steps he took to expand his understanding of a much larger, richer, and deeper cosmos.
Bill Guggenheim, Coauthor of Hello From Heaven!
October 16, 2018
This was a provocative and informative book chronicling the journey of a materialist-based physician through coma to a more metaphysical view of consciousness. Reviewing a great deal of research and experimental studies regarding NDE's and OOBE's; he concludes - with a great deal of substantiation - that consciousness may reside in a more supra-conscious realm. I highly recommend this book to "believers" & skeptics alike, since it provides more than a speculative view of the science of consciousness... Our next great leap of understanding.
February 26, 2022
Many Near Death Experiences (NDEs) -> experienced unconditional Love -> this love binds us all
February 17, 2018
If you ever ask, "Why am I here?" or "What is the meaning of life?" this is the book for you. If you are a science-minded sceptic thinking there is nothing after this life, this book is for you. If you are curious about Near Death Experiences (NDEs) and the hard science behind what happens in the brains of people who die and come back to life, this is the book for you. I don't proclaim to understand all of the science in this book, but Alexander puts enough of the research into layman's terms that I was able to plow through this fascinating book.
If you didn't know (and I didn't when I picked up the book) that Alexander has another book --Proof of Heaven-- that spent weeks at the top of the NYTs best seller list, don't be dissuaded from reading this newer book first. I hope to read Proof of Heaven now that I have read this one.
Alexander is a distinguished neurosurgeon who spent a week in a coma after contracting bacterial meningitis. During his coma, he experienced a profound event that convinced him that our souls are connected through prayer, love, and a higher power. What he does so well in the book, though, is he breaks down the science involved, and what we know and don't know about consciousness.
Moreover, he delves into his recovery after the coma and how challenging it is to get back to that state of mind or consciousness that he experienced during the coma. With his life partner and co-author Karen Newell he has been doing the hard work of meditation, and he chronicles his experiences with the many strategies that he has explored to go to other realms of consciousness.
I found this book very insightful and important. Highly recommended! I give it four stars only because it was not an easy read. I found myself lost at times and re-reading some passages many times and still not quite understanding. I am not a student of quantum physics or brain science, so this made the book harder for me. Still, I encourage everyone to read it.
If you didn't know (and I didn't when I picked up the book) that Alexander has another book --Proof of Heaven-- that spent weeks at the top of the NYTs best seller list, don't be dissuaded from reading this newer book first. I hope to read Proof of Heaven now that I have read this one.
Alexander is a distinguished neurosurgeon who spent a week in a coma after contracting bacterial meningitis. During his coma, he experienced a profound event that convinced him that our souls are connected through prayer, love, and a higher power. What he does so well in the book, though, is he breaks down the science involved, and what we know and don't know about consciousness.
Moreover, he delves into his recovery after the coma and how challenging it is to get back to that state of mind or consciousness that he experienced during the coma. With his life partner and co-author Karen Newell he has been doing the hard work of meditation, and he chronicles his experiences with the many strategies that he has explored to go to other realms of consciousness.
I found this book very insightful and important. Highly recommended! I give it four stars only because it was not an easy read. I found myself lost at times and re-reading some passages many times and still not quite understanding. I am not a student of quantum physics or brain science, so this made the book harder for me. Still, I encourage everyone to read it.
June 17, 2024
“EFFORT TO UNITE SCIENCE AND SPIRITUALITY”
Neurosurgeon and author Eben Alexander wrote in the Preface to this 2017 book, “This book is an ambitious effort to unite science and spirituality, two topics that are typically seen as opposites and are rarely so thoroughly addressed in the same book. We aim to reach a broad reading audience: those with both scientific and spiritual leanings---and everyone in between. This is a message for ALL of humanity. We wish to engage the modern, informed reader with a sincere interest in further understanding the nature of our world, and their relationship to it.”
He adds in the Introduction, “What is the relationship between the mind and the brain?... As a practicing neurosurgeon, I was exposed daily to the mind-brain relationship due to the fact that my patients would often have alterations in their level of consciousness… my focus was pragmatic. I was trained to evaluate those alterations … in order to diagnose and treat various tumors, injuries, infections, or strokes affecting the brain… I closely followed developments in physics and knew there were theories about how it all works, but I had patients to care for, and more important things to consider. My complacency … came crashing to a halt on November 10, 2008. I collapsed on my bed and fell into a deep coma… I went on a fantastic odyssey… an elaborate journey into many layers of higher dimensions… At first I simply trusted my doctors and their advice that ‘the dying brain can play all kinds of tricks.’ After all, I had sometimes given my own patients the same ‘advice.’ …
“I was driven to find an explanation for the journey I took… a sensory experience that completely defied our conventional neuroscientific concepts of the role of the neocortex in detailed conscious awareness… The unsettling prospect … led me into deeper territory in my final discussion with Dr. Joseph… I’ll never forget Charlie’s smile, as he looked at me with a sense of KNOWING, and said, ‘There is plenty of room in our understanding of the brain, and mind, and consciousness to allow for this mystery of your remarkable recovery to indicate something of great importance… I am inclined to accept your personal mystery as … one that greatly raises the ante in approaching any understanding of the nature of our existence. Just enjoy!’ I found it most reassuring that a highly trained and capable neurologist… was open to the grand possibilities … Charlie helped open the door that has led to my transformation from a materialist scientist… into someone who now knows his true nature and has also been offered a glimpse into levels of reality that is most refreshing, indeed.” (Pg. xiii-xv)
He recalls, “Michael Sullivan … was the rector at the Episcopal church I had attended for the previous two years… I had not sought spiritual advice from him in the past---I had never felt the need before my coma. Michael had become a good friend… I told him that I had been in a seemingly idyllic paradise… [which] was only a stepping-stone to the Core, which I encountered by ascending through higher dimensions of space and time. The Core was the source of ALL, the ultimate nonduality of pure oneness… ‘Your description of the experience reminds me of the writings of the early Christian mystics,’ Michael said to me. ‘I have a book that might help you… I’ll drop it off this afternoon.’ Later that day, I returned to find … [a book which] contained the fascinating writings of those who wrote about profound and life-changing spiritual experiences… My knowledge of Christianity was then confined to the very limited popular variety… Mysticism was not a quality that I had come to associate with Christianity… I was surprised to learn the power and diversity of such writings from a Christian perspective… Profound mystical accounts had led the way in humanity’s understanding of the full nature of the universe… they began to reveal that all the pathways to such knowing involve a journey into consciousness.” (Pg. 10-12)
He recounts, “The more I read about the scientific study of NDEs, the more I felt like I was tumbling over the edge of a gargantuan precipice… In essence, I was seeking a new scientific framework that could explain such experiences in a way that was more accurate and comprehensive than what conventional science allowed.” (Pg. 17-18)
He explains, “we neuroscientists and researchers still can’t answer the single most important question: What is consciousness and where does it come from? … this problem is known as the hard problem of consciousness, a term coined by the eccentric Australian philosopher David Chalmers… Some scientists are ready to give up on the question. They … abandon all hope of ever explaining how consciousness might arise from the physical workings of the brain. Others… sidestep… by declaring that consciousness does not even exist… many scientists simply shrug and move on. For them, the hard problem is just too, well, hard.” (Pg. 21)
He continues, “Some of the more modern scientific thinking … concerns a wholly different concept of the mind-brain relationship: that the brain… reduces PRIMORDIAL consciousness down to … our very limited human awareness of the apparent ‘here and now.’ … This conscious awareness can be liberated to a much higher level when freed up from the shackles of the physical brain, as happened when I was ion coma. The scientific implications are stunning, and provide powerfully for the reality of the afterlife. But this is only the beginning. As we come to realize that examples of exceptional human potential … really occur in some people, we begin to realize that the latent ability is there in all humans… If abilities such as these are achievable, the implications for human potential are breathtaking!” (Pg. 22-23)
He notes that he “encountered [coauthor] Karen Newell in November 2011… She had never entertained that worldview I had embraced for the 54 year of my life before coma, that of scientific materialism. In fact, she had spent her life very comfortably embedded in a worldview … believing that mind and mental experience are the fundamental essence of all existence… Karen felt very familiar to me… and I trusted her immediately.” (Pg. 34) Later, he adds, “My co-author, Karen Newell, is a spiritual mentor, co-creator and, most important, my loving life partner in this effort. We have become deep soul mates through our profound connections at all levels.” (Pg. 243)
He explains, “I was invited to [participate]… in a public debate on the question,’ Is death final?’ hosted by … National Public Radio … on May 7, 2014… Dr. Raymond Moody served as my partner… On the other side were Sean Carroll, a physicist … and Dr. Steven Novella, a neurologist… who took the opposing atheistic tack, that the death of the physical body is the end of any consciousness or soul. Novella … prides himself on being a professional skeptic so I was hoping he would acknowledge the lack of scientific consensus around consciousness… But Novella’s opening statement immediately demonstrated his materialist-minded certainty that consciousness arises from the brain… The problem … is the assertion that thoughts, feelings, and beliefs---even consciousness itself---are CAUSED by physical brain activity alone.” (Pg. 38-39)
He continues, “‘No neuroscientist on earth can … explain a mechanism by which the physical brain gives rise to consciousness,’ I challenged Novella… Novella was at a loss for words… I hoped to have a richer exchange with … Sean Carroll… [Alexander said] ‘I think it’s important to point out… what drove the founding father of [quantum mechanics] into mysticism was… they were led to belief that consciousness, the OBSERVING MIND, actually played a role in the unfolding of what was being observed…’ Carroll’s answer to my question summarily dismissed the wonder of this finding… I was struck by his statement that ‘souls persisting in the afterlife should be perfectly obvious’… I came away from the debate disappointed in Carroll’s and Novella’s refusal to apply the same scientific standard… to the question of consciousness, rather than trying to fit evidence into a predetermined conclusion.” (Pg. 41-45)
He states, “Clearly, the implications of the most sophisticated recent experiments in quantum physics only strengthen the sense that there is no underlying objective physical reality independent of the mind of the conscious observer. And yet, the Supreme Illusion offers a most compelling sense of a consensus reality. The Supreme Illusion is ‘cunning, baffling, and powerful’… Even given our cognitive acknowledgement of the Supreme Illusion, we are drawn into its seductive and irresistible power… Given our evolving notion of the Supreme Illusion, the only knowledge available to any human being is the subjective. In fact, we never had access to any ‘objective’ reality. There seems to be a consensus reality that we assume to be the external world… but we must be cautious not to assume too much about any objective reality outside of what is subjectively verifiable to us.” (Pg. 55-58)
He continues, “conscious awareness itself is the only information source available to any human being in existence. The objective physical world is projected as outside of an independent of our conscious awareness of it, yet our assumption that it exists as we perceive it is only an INTERPRETATION of our sensory experience, and not an established fact. The actual existence of the objective physical world is an extra step that is not necessary. Metaphysical idealism fits well with … the framework emerging today in neuroscience and philosophy of mind promoting a more viable linkage between brain and consciousness… the physical brain serves as the … filter through which universal consciousness, or the Collective Mind, is filtered… I postulate that the neocortex is the dominant influence on how much and what specific conscious awareness is allowed in from Collective Mind… Experimental results in quantum physics serve as the smoking gun to indicate consciousness is fundamental in creating the universe.” (Pg. 63-64)
He summarizes, “It is ALL about consciousness---literally and truly, ALL of it… recall the deep mystery of the observer’s role within quantum physics… we’ve come to realize the principles are applicable not only in the field of chemistry, but also in biology… The astonishing ‘mindfulness’ of the universe, its very self-awareness of existence, manifests at the smallest level through the conscious awareness of individual beings, and is tightly interwoven with the purpose of all of evolving consciousness.” (Pg. 70-71) Later, he adds, “We are spiritual beings living in a spiritual universe. Fundamentally, this spirituality means we are all interconnected through the Collective Mind… The very fuel of that spirituality is Love.” (Pg. 103)
He observes, “Dad was also very religious, or, more correctly, spiritual… He believed that his part in healing any patient was miniscule, and he trusted that the power of prayer and an omnipotent and omniscient God were the main means of healing… My father’s influence had instilled in me a habit of praying, in a form directly related to my childhood in the Methodist church and to my later Episcopalian traditions… Following my coma, praying felt completely different… I felt a constant stream of affirmation and … prayer flowed quite naturally. I seemed to have an ongoing connection … with that loving sense of oneness at the Core… For the first time, my prayers … were much less a request for intervention… and much more a trust in knowing that ‘all is well.’” (Pg. 91-92)
He acknowledges, “The ability to communicate with the dead and pick up on their signs are skills held by psychic mediums. Movies and television shows often characterize mediums as complete frauds… It’s saddening that there are instances of deception, but it is crucial to point out that this by no means indicates that ALL mediums are frauds.” (Pg. 148) Later, he adds, “After-death communication (ADC) is not uncommon… ADCs cannot be willed into existence, but becoming more receptive to inner promptings can help… Learning to trust that connection brings countless benefits.” (Pg. 156-157)
He suggests, “Reincarnation is a process of education for all beings in the grander evolution of consciousness. This apparently standard procedure was part of the lessons I learned from my coma journey. Reincarnation was presented in the Core realm as part of the very fabric of all existence---not as some blind mechanistic wheel … but a process that is more directly related to our soul’s purpose of existence and transformation. Reincarnation was the best way to reconcile that … infinitely loving deity I encountered with the suffering of innocent beings allowed in our world, especially children and animals.” (Pg. 179)
He notes, “I do understand the desolation of spiritual emptiness; I have touched it myself. I often proclaim to be a grateful recovering alcoholic… the gratitude is not simply for breaking free of alcohol---it is for being born alcoholic in the first place. Without this difficult challenge, I would have received the ‘gift of desperation’…” (Pg. 204)
He argues, “The placebo effect is the response to a sham procedure or an inert substance (i.e., a sugar pill) that suggests our minds have the power to alleviate symptoms or cure disease. The placebo does not actually cause any physiological effect---it is the patient’s BELIEF that that have received a therapeutic substance (medicine) or procedure that leads them toward healing… The placebo effect is thus one of the purest forms of mind over matter.” (Pg. 216)
He concludes, “This is a critical juncture in human history… humanity is meant to face these challenges together… The human spirit has potential powers fare beyond our wildest imagination… Of course, some are not yet ready to embrace this truth. Whenever we face a paradigm shift, there are those who leap across, those who wait for others to build a bridge, and those who plant their feet and refuse to budge… we all have the capacity to explore the vast well of consciousness that lies within and through us, and within and through the network of souls with which we are in a hidden but eternal pattern of connection… You ARE the universe. The mindful universe in which we live is self-aware, and learning, and evolving… A brilliant, hopeful future is within our grasp---we must simply choose to MAKE IT SO.” (Pg. 239-240)
Alexander in this book fully embraces ideas we used to call “New Age” (perhaps showing the influence of Karen Newell on his thinking). It will be of great interest to those studying contemporary spirituality.
Neurosurgeon and author Eben Alexander wrote in the Preface to this 2017 book, “This book is an ambitious effort to unite science and spirituality, two topics that are typically seen as opposites and are rarely so thoroughly addressed in the same book. We aim to reach a broad reading audience: those with both scientific and spiritual leanings---and everyone in between. This is a message for ALL of humanity. We wish to engage the modern, informed reader with a sincere interest in further understanding the nature of our world, and their relationship to it.”
He adds in the Introduction, “What is the relationship between the mind and the brain?... As a practicing neurosurgeon, I was exposed daily to the mind-brain relationship due to the fact that my patients would often have alterations in their level of consciousness… my focus was pragmatic. I was trained to evaluate those alterations … in order to diagnose and treat various tumors, injuries, infections, or strokes affecting the brain… I closely followed developments in physics and knew there were theories about how it all works, but I had patients to care for, and more important things to consider. My complacency … came crashing to a halt on November 10, 2008. I collapsed on my bed and fell into a deep coma… I went on a fantastic odyssey… an elaborate journey into many layers of higher dimensions… At first I simply trusted my doctors and their advice that ‘the dying brain can play all kinds of tricks.’ After all, I had sometimes given my own patients the same ‘advice.’ …
“I was driven to find an explanation for the journey I took… a sensory experience that completely defied our conventional neuroscientific concepts of the role of the neocortex in detailed conscious awareness… The unsettling prospect … led me into deeper territory in my final discussion with Dr. Joseph… I’ll never forget Charlie’s smile, as he looked at me with a sense of KNOWING, and said, ‘There is plenty of room in our understanding of the brain, and mind, and consciousness to allow for this mystery of your remarkable recovery to indicate something of great importance… I am inclined to accept your personal mystery as … one that greatly raises the ante in approaching any understanding of the nature of our existence. Just enjoy!’ I found it most reassuring that a highly trained and capable neurologist… was open to the grand possibilities … Charlie helped open the door that has led to my transformation from a materialist scientist… into someone who now knows his true nature and has also been offered a glimpse into levels of reality that is most refreshing, indeed.” (Pg. xiii-xv)
He recalls, “Michael Sullivan … was the rector at the Episcopal church I had attended for the previous two years… I had not sought spiritual advice from him in the past---I had never felt the need before my coma. Michael had become a good friend… I told him that I had been in a seemingly idyllic paradise… [which] was only a stepping-stone to the Core, which I encountered by ascending through higher dimensions of space and time. The Core was the source of ALL, the ultimate nonduality of pure oneness… ‘Your description of the experience reminds me of the writings of the early Christian mystics,’ Michael said to me. ‘I have a book that might help you… I’ll drop it off this afternoon.’ Later that day, I returned to find … [a book which] contained the fascinating writings of those who wrote about profound and life-changing spiritual experiences… My knowledge of Christianity was then confined to the very limited popular variety… Mysticism was not a quality that I had come to associate with Christianity… I was surprised to learn the power and diversity of such writings from a Christian perspective… Profound mystical accounts had led the way in humanity’s understanding of the full nature of the universe… they began to reveal that all the pathways to such knowing involve a journey into consciousness.” (Pg. 10-12)
He recounts, “The more I read about the scientific study of NDEs, the more I felt like I was tumbling over the edge of a gargantuan precipice… In essence, I was seeking a new scientific framework that could explain such experiences in a way that was more accurate and comprehensive than what conventional science allowed.” (Pg. 17-18)
He explains, “we neuroscientists and researchers still can’t answer the single most important question: What is consciousness and where does it come from? … this problem is known as the hard problem of consciousness, a term coined by the eccentric Australian philosopher David Chalmers… Some scientists are ready to give up on the question. They … abandon all hope of ever explaining how consciousness might arise from the physical workings of the brain. Others… sidestep… by declaring that consciousness does not even exist… many scientists simply shrug and move on. For them, the hard problem is just too, well, hard.” (Pg. 21)
He continues, “Some of the more modern scientific thinking … concerns a wholly different concept of the mind-brain relationship: that the brain… reduces PRIMORDIAL consciousness down to … our very limited human awareness of the apparent ‘here and now.’ … This conscious awareness can be liberated to a much higher level when freed up from the shackles of the physical brain, as happened when I was ion coma. The scientific implications are stunning, and provide powerfully for the reality of the afterlife. But this is only the beginning. As we come to realize that examples of exceptional human potential … really occur in some people, we begin to realize that the latent ability is there in all humans… If abilities such as these are achievable, the implications for human potential are breathtaking!” (Pg. 22-23)
He notes that he “encountered [coauthor] Karen Newell in November 2011… She had never entertained that worldview I had embraced for the 54 year of my life before coma, that of scientific materialism. In fact, she had spent her life very comfortably embedded in a worldview … believing that mind and mental experience are the fundamental essence of all existence… Karen felt very familiar to me… and I trusted her immediately.” (Pg. 34) Later, he adds, “My co-author, Karen Newell, is a spiritual mentor, co-creator and, most important, my loving life partner in this effort. We have become deep soul mates through our profound connections at all levels.” (Pg. 243)
He explains, “I was invited to [participate]… in a public debate on the question,’ Is death final?’ hosted by … National Public Radio … on May 7, 2014… Dr. Raymond Moody served as my partner… On the other side were Sean Carroll, a physicist … and Dr. Steven Novella, a neurologist… who took the opposing atheistic tack, that the death of the physical body is the end of any consciousness or soul. Novella … prides himself on being a professional skeptic so I was hoping he would acknowledge the lack of scientific consensus around consciousness… But Novella’s opening statement immediately demonstrated his materialist-minded certainty that consciousness arises from the brain… The problem … is the assertion that thoughts, feelings, and beliefs---even consciousness itself---are CAUSED by physical brain activity alone.” (Pg. 38-39)
He continues, “‘No neuroscientist on earth can … explain a mechanism by which the physical brain gives rise to consciousness,’ I challenged Novella… Novella was at a loss for words… I hoped to have a richer exchange with … Sean Carroll… [Alexander said] ‘I think it’s important to point out… what drove the founding father of [quantum mechanics] into mysticism was… they were led to belief that consciousness, the OBSERVING MIND, actually played a role in the unfolding of what was being observed…’ Carroll’s answer to my question summarily dismissed the wonder of this finding… I was struck by his statement that ‘souls persisting in the afterlife should be perfectly obvious’… I came away from the debate disappointed in Carroll’s and Novella’s refusal to apply the same scientific standard… to the question of consciousness, rather than trying to fit evidence into a predetermined conclusion.” (Pg. 41-45)
He states, “Clearly, the implications of the most sophisticated recent experiments in quantum physics only strengthen the sense that there is no underlying objective physical reality independent of the mind of the conscious observer. And yet, the Supreme Illusion offers a most compelling sense of a consensus reality. The Supreme Illusion is ‘cunning, baffling, and powerful’… Even given our cognitive acknowledgement of the Supreme Illusion, we are drawn into its seductive and irresistible power… Given our evolving notion of the Supreme Illusion, the only knowledge available to any human being is the subjective. In fact, we never had access to any ‘objective’ reality. There seems to be a consensus reality that we assume to be the external world… but we must be cautious not to assume too much about any objective reality outside of what is subjectively verifiable to us.” (Pg. 55-58)
He continues, “conscious awareness itself is the only information source available to any human being in existence. The objective physical world is projected as outside of an independent of our conscious awareness of it, yet our assumption that it exists as we perceive it is only an INTERPRETATION of our sensory experience, and not an established fact. The actual existence of the objective physical world is an extra step that is not necessary. Metaphysical idealism fits well with … the framework emerging today in neuroscience and philosophy of mind promoting a more viable linkage between brain and consciousness… the physical brain serves as the … filter through which universal consciousness, or the Collective Mind, is filtered… I postulate that the neocortex is the dominant influence on how much and what specific conscious awareness is allowed in from Collective Mind… Experimental results in quantum physics serve as the smoking gun to indicate consciousness is fundamental in creating the universe.” (Pg. 63-64)
He summarizes, “It is ALL about consciousness---literally and truly, ALL of it… recall the deep mystery of the observer’s role within quantum physics… we’ve come to realize the principles are applicable not only in the field of chemistry, but also in biology… The astonishing ‘mindfulness’ of the universe, its very self-awareness of existence, manifests at the smallest level through the conscious awareness of individual beings, and is tightly interwoven with the purpose of all of evolving consciousness.” (Pg. 70-71) Later, he adds, “We are spiritual beings living in a spiritual universe. Fundamentally, this spirituality means we are all interconnected through the Collective Mind… The very fuel of that spirituality is Love.” (Pg. 103)
He observes, “Dad was also very religious, or, more correctly, spiritual… He believed that his part in healing any patient was miniscule, and he trusted that the power of prayer and an omnipotent and omniscient God were the main means of healing… My father’s influence had instilled in me a habit of praying, in a form directly related to my childhood in the Methodist church and to my later Episcopalian traditions… Following my coma, praying felt completely different… I felt a constant stream of affirmation and … prayer flowed quite naturally. I seemed to have an ongoing connection … with that loving sense of oneness at the Core… For the first time, my prayers … were much less a request for intervention… and much more a trust in knowing that ‘all is well.’” (Pg. 91-92)
He acknowledges, “The ability to communicate with the dead and pick up on their signs are skills held by psychic mediums. Movies and television shows often characterize mediums as complete frauds… It’s saddening that there are instances of deception, but it is crucial to point out that this by no means indicates that ALL mediums are frauds.” (Pg. 148) Later, he adds, “After-death communication (ADC) is not uncommon… ADCs cannot be willed into existence, but becoming more receptive to inner promptings can help… Learning to trust that connection brings countless benefits.” (Pg. 156-157)
He suggests, “Reincarnation is a process of education for all beings in the grander evolution of consciousness. This apparently standard procedure was part of the lessons I learned from my coma journey. Reincarnation was presented in the Core realm as part of the very fabric of all existence---not as some blind mechanistic wheel … but a process that is more directly related to our soul’s purpose of existence and transformation. Reincarnation was the best way to reconcile that … infinitely loving deity I encountered with the suffering of innocent beings allowed in our world, especially children and animals.” (Pg. 179)
He notes, “I do understand the desolation of spiritual emptiness; I have touched it myself. I often proclaim to be a grateful recovering alcoholic… the gratitude is not simply for breaking free of alcohol---it is for being born alcoholic in the first place. Without this difficult challenge, I would have received the ‘gift of desperation’…” (Pg. 204)
He argues, “The placebo effect is the response to a sham procedure or an inert substance (i.e., a sugar pill) that suggests our minds have the power to alleviate symptoms or cure disease. The placebo does not actually cause any physiological effect---it is the patient’s BELIEF that that have received a therapeutic substance (medicine) or procedure that leads them toward healing… The placebo effect is thus one of the purest forms of mind over matter.” (Pg. 216)
He concludes, “This is a critical juncture in human history… humanity is meant to face these challenges together… The human spirit has potential powers fare beyond our wildest imagination… Of course, some are not yet ready to embrace this truth. Whenever we face a paradigm shift, there are those who leap across, those who wait for others to build a bridge, and those who plant their feet and refuse to budge… we all have the capacity to explore the vast well of consciousness that lies within and through us, and within and through the network of souls with which we are in a hidden but eternal pattern of connection… You ARE the universe. The mindful universe in which we live is self-aware, and learning, and evolving… A brilliant, hopeful future is within our grasp---we must simply choose to MAKE IT SO.” (Pg. 239-240)
Alexander in this book fully embraces ideas we used to call “New Age” (perhaps showing the influence of Karen Newell on his thinking). It will be of great interest to those studying contemporary spirituality.
January 11, 2018
First, I love this topic - it's my kind of discussion.
Second, it contains what I find mindful: a well rounded perspective on possibilities and perspectives (Mind Full, that fun play on words). I find that Dr. Alexander's approach is honest and as straight-forward as this topic can be. Although I personally believe capturing consciousness inside any container is a bit like herding cats. Many cats captured and released. Some even wandered back of their own free will.
The appendices knitted much together for me. Although my kindle edition has multiple highlighting throughout for personal reference, any future reference for me will begin at the end and work forward. Yes, nuggets throughout.
Second, it contains what I find mindful: a well rounded perspective on possibilities and perspectives (Mind Full, that fun play on words). I find that Dr. Alexander's approach is honest and as straight-forward as this topic can be. Although I personally believe capturing consciousness inside any container is a bit like herding cats. Many cats captured and released. Some even wandered back of their own free will.
The appendices knitted much together for me. Although my kindle edition has multiple highlighting throughout for personal reference, any future reference for me will begin at the end and work forward. Yes, nuggets throughout.
August 26, 2018
I love the combination of science and soulfulness in Eben Alexander's writing. He makes a strong case for the reality of Near Death Experiences (NDE) while conveying the wonder, beauty, and significance of such experiences.
The good doctor skilfully builds up to a thrilling call to awaken our consciousness that left me deeply moved and eager for his next book.
His life partner and co-author, Karen Newell, sounds like a person I would like to have met in the pages of this book; but Alexander's is the only authorial voice we hear. Maybe in the next book, she will have more of a presence. I hope so.
The good doctor skilfully builds up to a thrilling call to awaken our consciousness that left me deeply moved and eager for his next book.
His life partner and co-author, Karen Newell, sounds like a person I would like to have met in the pages of this book; but Alexander's is the only authorial voice we hear. Maybe in the next book, she will have more of a presence. I hope so.
April 23, 2018
Brilliant! This book has brought me closer to understanding the nature of reality. Eben is doing great work by merging science and spirituality. Inputs by Karen are really helpful. Love you guys!
March 28, 2021
Oh Spirituality. So many books about it yet not really a topic I bring myself to read much about. The only reason why I decided to read this book is because a friend of mine gave it to me as a gift. Would I ever had picked up that book for myself? Definitely not. The book cover, the title and the summary would never have caught my attention to make it to a shopping cart, neither real nor virtual.
Now, I did read through the entire book. I could have stopped reading it if it was no interest so it did have some things going for it in the end. So let's mention now the few things I could appreciate.
1) I did appreciate that the author had a scientific background. The fact that he had science based fact when explaining his near death experience gained him some points in having me continue to read.
2) A lot of people interested in spirituality often to me just seem to be way too preachy which makes my eyes roll so far back in my head and get me to cut it all short real quick. I did not find that this book had this tone to it. It was really more about sharing the authors experience and how as a neurosurgeons, some of it did not add up to simply be making any sense.
This would honestly be the 2 things I can say were of value to me and these are why the book in my opinion make it to 2 stars.
I think the book did have potential after reading it, but it still did not cut it for me.
First of all, the first 5 chapters are really about his knowledge as a neurosurgeons and how it support his spirituality by how the science can not explain his near death experience. As much as him being a man of science added value to what he had to say on the topic, these 5 chapters were way too academic and were going into way too much details that were absolutely not all that interesting. He could had cut that down to 1 or 2 chapter and work on making it more accessible and interesting for the reader.
The next thing which is the main thing that makes this book not worth the read at all for anyone thinking about it is that again, the writing comes from an old white academic dude. The book is about sharing his story and his experience and he is a horrible story teller. There is nothing he wrote that would make you want to keep flipping the pages for hours. Some content was interesting sometimes but his poor story telling skills really went against it.
All and all, I really don't feel that I have much take away from this book and I would not recommend it to anyone. It will certainly not be a book I go back to in any way and that would make me want to find more content about the author.
Now, I did read through the entire book. I could have stopped reading it if it was no interest so it did have some things going for it in the end. So let's mention now the few things I could appreciate.
1) I did appreciate that the author had a scientific background. The fact that he had science based fact when explaining his near death experience gained him some points in having me continue to read.
2) A lot of people interested in spirituality often to me just seem to be way too preachy which makes my eyes roll so far back in my head and get me to cut it all short real quick. I did not find that this book had this tone to it. It was really more about sharing the authors experience and how as a neurosurgeons, some of it did not add up to simply be making any sense.
This would honestly be the 2 things I can say were of value to me and these are why the book in my opinion make it to 2 stars.
I think the book did have potential after reading it, but it still did not cut it for me.
First of all, the first 5 chapters are really about his knowledge as a neurosurgeons and how it support his spirituality by how the science can not explain his near death experience. As much as him being a man of science added value to what he had to say on the topic, these 5 chapters were way too academic and were going into way too much details that were absolutely not all that interesting. He could had cut that down to 1 or 2 chapter and work on making it more accessible and interesting for the reader.
The next thing which is the main thing that makes this book not worth the read at all for anyone thinking about it is that again, the writing comes from an old white academic dude. The book is about sharing his story and his experience and he is a horrible story teller. There is nothing he wrote that would make you want to keep flipping the pages for hours. Some content was interesting sometimes but his poor story telling skills really went against it.
All and all, I really don't feel that I have much take away from this book and I would not recommend it to anyone. It will certainly not be a book I go back to in any way and that would make me want to find more content about the author.
March 23, 2019
This book found me; I didn’t find it. Which makes sense once you’ve read it.
I was in my public library, picking up a different book (which I’d put on hold). When I had that book, I felt that I needed to go and have a look around to see what else I might find.
Initially, I was looking “something on constructing gardens”. Finding the gardens section, I stood looking at the shelves, and then had a very strong, almost audible(!) knowing that was, “it isn’t in this shelf. Go left”. So, I went left.
That’s how I found Magical Gardens (which was precisely about constructing gardens.... magical ones). And right near it was Living in a Mindful Universe. I picked it up and added it to my pile without even consciously deciding to do it.
Then I started reading it.
I had to read this book; after I was one third of the way through, it fundamentally changed the direction of the book I am currently writing — for the better. If this book hadn’t found me, I wouldn’t have found the solution for my knotty fiction problem.
Living in a Mindful Universe is an outstanding read for two reasons. The first is that it is deeply scientific, as only someone who is a neurosurgeon can be. The second is because it pushes you far, far beyond your physical limitations.
And, thirdly, it is deeply referenced. Of late, I have been following rabbitholes opened up by authors by following their pathways, finding the books that they have read, and challenging my own new understandings.
It isn’t a new way of reading, by any stretch. It’s the fundamental basis of all enquiry, academic or otherwise. But it is, a sense, one way that I have come to evaluate the value of a volume to me. A book can be deeply referenced, and not inspire me to follow a trail, in which case the value of the volume is much lower.
No descriptions from me about what’s in this book, though. You’ll just have to read it. ;)
I was in my public library, picking up a different book (which I’d put on hold). When I had that book, I felt that I needed to go and have a look around to see what else I might find.
Initially, I was looking “something on constructing gardens”. Finding the gardens section, I stood looking at the shelves, and then had a very strong, almost audible(!) knowing that was, “it isn’t in this shelf. Go left”. So, I went left.
That’s how I found Magical Gardens (which was precisely about constructing gardens.... magical ones). And right near it was Living in a Mindful Universe. I picked it up and added it to my pile without even consciously deciding to do it.
Then I started reading it.
I had to read this book; after I was one third of the way through, it fundamentally changed the direction of the book I am currently writing — for the better. If this book hadn’t found me, I wouldn’t have found the solution for my knotty fiction problem.
Living in a Mindful Universe is an outstanding read for two reasons. The first is that it is deeply scientific, as only someone who is a neurosurgeon can be. The second is because it pushes you far, far beyond your physical limitations.
And, thirdly, it is deeply referenced. Of late, I have been following rabbitholes opened up by authors by following their pathways, finding the books that they have read, and challenging my own new understandings.
It isn’t a new way of reading, by any stretch. It’s the fundamental basis of all enquiry, academic or otherwise. But it is, a sense, one way that I have come to evaluate the value of a volume to me. A book can be deeply referenced, and not inspire me to follow a trail, in which case the value of the volume is much lower.
No descriptions from me about what’s in this book, though. You’ll just have to read it. ;)
June 1, 2022
Dr Alexander's NDE is, in his own words, ''Never is any part of this only one soul's journey: This is about a massive evolution of consciousness in which everyone partakes.
Although science has been giving answers to many of our questions, without making peace with our hearts, we'll always be incomplete. This book will definitely help you to 'awaken the profound depths of your being'.
Dr Alexander also puts, ''Remarkable, the heart's toroidally shaped electric field is 5000 times greater than that of the brain, and its magnetic field is 5000 times greater than that of the brain.
Another interesting fact in the book was the part that said, ''We seem to experience a greater sense of consciousness the less certain part of our brains are actively functioning'' As we move out of the illusion of our senses, we will likely to experience a higher sense of being.
''The mindful universe in which we live is self-aware and learning, and evolving. Each of us is a potential change agent that can help bring our collective vision to fruition.''
Although science has been giving answers to many of our questions, without making peace with our hearts, we'll always be incomplete. This book will definitely help you to 'awaken the profound depths of your being'.
Dr Alexander also puts, ''Remarkable, the heart's toroidally shaped electric field is 5000 times greater than that of the brain, and its magnetic field is 5000 times greater than that of the brain.
Another interesting fact in the book was the part that said, ''We seem to experience a greater sense of consciousness the less certain part of our brains are actively functioning'' As we move out of the illusion of our senses, we will likely to experience a higher sense of being.
''The mindful universe in which we live is self-aware and learning, and evolving. Each of us is a potential change agent that can help bring our collective vision to fruition.''
October 1, 2019
Still interesting but a bit repetitive at the end. I do think he needs to remember that science is simply a collection of hopefully-objective data regarding various phenomena & not a religion. And while he does initially take care to differentiate reductive materialism from science, I feel he gets very sloppy with general references to science three books in. And any scientist knows that interpretation of data is where we must be most meticulous, & are often called to be, especially with the general public. That being said, an adult can still easily decipher what he means to say.
But let's be honest, no one complaining about this book is likely to care about splitting those hairs or condescending to read such a thing. And Christians don't seem to care for the religious implications, either. I, however, find the idea of a science-loving God enjoyable enough to take a short break from ego lit.
But let's be honest, no one complaining about this book is likely to care about splitting those hairs or condescending to read such a thing. And Christians don't seem to care for the religious implications, either. I, however, find the idea of a science-loving God enjoyable enough to take a short break from ego lit.
December 30, 2021
14 Oct 2021: I started to read this in Kindle format, but it's so good I want to re-read it more carefully and make notes, so I've ordered a physical copy and returned the digital version for a refund. Therefore this item is now on hold. Will resume 😊
Dec 2021: this is a fascinating and absorbing book. I'm making lots of notes in my paper copy. Will be back soon with an attempt to summarize my thoughts, impressions and ideas.
30 Dec 2021: Yes, I've finished it but there are far too many insights to go into here. I thoroughly recommend this book to anybody who wants to know how external scientific knowledge meshes with so-called interior knowledge - while adding that neither counteracts the other and both are sides of the metaphysical coin.
This book has authenticity on its side as it was written by someone whose inner understanding was awakened by his NDE (the coma which essentially killed his physical brain, caused by severe meningitis). The former solely materialistic neurosurgeon has since made it his mission to tell people about the phenomenon of the Oneness of everything which exists, where there is no past, present or future in the timelessness of eternity, and we are all linked spiritually through the heart from where the seat of human 'knowledge' can be said to emanate the light of the the Universe/God/Creator & Sustainer Spirit (call 'it' what you will.)
Some of my own insights: There are different spheres or levels of consciousness: physical and non-local (the latter of which also has a place within the shell we call our human body). People tend to get confused because so many live with the concept of duality.
On that level, I identify two concepts: Physical, the mental/brain driven/awareness of self as a single entity among other single entities (and all that exists); Metaphysical: non-local consciousness (as reported by many), out of body ability (involuntary or voluntary), supersense (knowing things humans don't normally know) and spiritual (connection in oneness - which quantum physics calls entanglement).
Universal Consciousness: The Mind of the Universe (which many call God) can be tapped into at will, if only one actually consciously (mentally) seeks to do to using any of the many techniques around (meditation, mindfulness etc).
In contrast with the author who, along with others, maintains we are part of the 'grand illusion' of being human in our version of 'reality' and we need to ditch the idea of ego (a human brain construct), I maintain that ALL of it can be true and held in wholeness. The objective facts of what we see around us are true (not an illusion) - for example, the moon is really there, not conjured out of our own minds - but we can acknowledge that we each 'see' our reality differently. It's all a question of perspective.
The author says we're actually spiritual beings living in a spiritual universe. This is a concept which will puzzle materialists: we're physical, right? But - my comment - if one learns to overcome the physical/spiritual duality we've been taught, and we can transcend the physical and 'become one' (blend) with the Collective Mind (the One Thought which creates and sustains everything as we know it), we can understand that our spiritual connection with 'God' is real. Just as connecting deeply with nature, people and animals at the heart level is real. Our hearts tell us the truth about reality. So, Dr Alexander is accurate (from my perspective) to say, "... we are all interconnected through the Collective Mind, and that the emotional power behind our hopes and dreams has a basis in reality that guides the unfolding events of our lives." And the basis of that power is Love at all levels of existence.
In other words, it's possible to 'tune out' of the mundane, the ordinary, as an act of will, and 'tune in' to the extraordinary, the superconscious reality of All That Is.
If there is one 'flaw' in Dr Alexander's book it's that - along with many like-minded authors who write about the interface between spirituality and scientific understanding - he maintains that there's a 'great awakening' going on in the world. As I wrote in an earlier review on another book, this does not seem to be true. Maybe on a metaphysical, timeless, level it could be said to be happening - if time doesn't matter, then all is happening NOW. From my perspective, as one who has read extensively for the past 15 years and observed what's happening on the physical plane of existence, it's not happening. The 'problem' is that of sheer numbers.
The planet we inhabit (which is real on a physical level) is overcrowded with 7.5 billion people. Maybe there are around 5 billion people who could be open to the changes envisioned in this book, but many are either unaware of this metaphysical, spiritual stuff, or they actively deny any interest and/or they cannot be bothered to actively participating in creating 'The Shift' in consciousness Dr Alexander and others are hoping for. The status quo is very attractive and engaging, so why bother?
Other authors, such as Gregg Braden and Dr Bruce Lipton and others, have been writing about this 'happening' for many years and I've yet to see any real change occurring, at least not in the West where I live. The materialistic "Look after #1" still holds sway, and the focus (taught and inculcated) is still the human, materialist focus on money, material gain, comfort and status. While there's nothing wrong with these things per se, from a spiritual perspective, these things keep many focused on 'getting' stuff rather than going within and finding their spiritual reality.
Maybe readers of this review will not be interested either. I wasn't for many years. Maybe some will deny this perspective as woo-woo, New Age and not real. All I can do is recommend some read this book with an open mind and heart, and suspend being closed-minded and allow skepticism to be challenged.
Dec 2021: this is a fascinating and absorbing book. I'm making lots of notes in my paper copy. Will be back soon with an attempt to summarize my thoughts, impressions and ideas.
30 Dec 2021: Yes, I've finished it but there are far too many insights to go into here. I thoroughly recommend this book to anybody who wants to know how external scientific knowledge meshes with so-called interior knowledge - while adding that neither counteracts the other and both are sides of the metaphysical coin.
This book has authenticity on its side as it was written by someone whose inner understanding was awakened by his NDE (the coma which essentially killed his physical brain, caused by severe meningitis). The former solely materialistic neurosurgeon has since made it his mission to tell people about the phenomenon of the Oneness of everything which exists, where there is no past, present or future in the timelessness of eternity, and we are all linked spiritually through the heart from where the seat of human 'knowledge' can be said to emanate the light of the the Universe/God/Creator & Sustainer Spirit (call 'it' what you will.)
Some of my own insights: There are different spheres or levels of consciousness: physical and non-local (the latter of which also has a place within the shell we call our human body). People tend to get confused because so many live with the concept of duality.
On that level, I identify two concepts: Physical, the mental/brain driven/awareness of self as a single entity among other single entities (and all that exists); Metaphysical: non-local consciousness (as reported by many), out of body ability (involuntary or voluntary), supersense (knowing things humans don't normally know) and spiritual (connection in oneness - which quantum physics calls entanglement).
Universal Consciousness: The Mind of the Universe (which many call God) can be tapped into at will, if only one actually consciously (mentally) seeks to do to using any of the many techniques around (meditation, mindfulness etc).
In contrast with the author who, along with others, maintains we are part of the 'grand illusion' of being human in our version of 'reality' and we need to ditch the idea of ego (a human brain construct), I maintain that ALL of it can be true and held in wholeness. The objective facts of what we see around us are true (not an illusion) - for example, the moon is really there, not conjured out of our own minds - but we can acknowledge that we each 'see' our reality differently. It's all a question of perspective.
The author says we're actually spiritual beings living in a spiritual universe. This is a concept which will puzzle materialists: we're physical, right? But - my comment - if one learns to overcome the physical/spiritual duality we've been taught, and we can transcend the physical and 'become one' (blend) with the Collective Mind (the One Thought which creates and sustains everything as we know it), we can understand that our spiritual connection with 'God' is real. Just as connecting deeply with nature, people and animals at the heart level is real. Our hearts tell us the truth about reality. So, Dr Alexander is accurate (from my perspective) to say, "... we are all interconnected through the Collective Mind, and that the emotional power behind our hopes and dreams has a basis in reality that guides the unfolding events of our lives." And the basis of that power is Love at all levels of existence.
In other words, it's possible to 'tune out' of the mundane, the ordinary, as an act of will, and 'tune in' to the extraordinary, the superconscious reality of All That Is.
If there is one 'flaw' in Dr Alexander's book it's that - along with many like-minded authors who write about the interface between spirituality and scientific understanding - he maintains that there's a 'great awakening' going on in the world. As I wrote in an earlier review on another book, this does not seem to be true. Maybe on a metaphysical, timeless, level it could be said to be happening - if time doesn't matter, then all is happening NOW. From my perspective, as one who has read extensively for the past 15 years and observed what's happening on the physical plane of existence, it's not happening. The 'problem' is that of sheer numbers.
The planet we inhabit (which is real on a physical level) is overcrowded with 7.5 billion people. Maybe there are around 5 billion people who could be open to the changes envisioned in this book, but many are either unaware of this metaphysical, spiritual stuff, or they actively deny any interest and/or they cannot be bothered to actively participating in creating 'The Shift' in consciousness Dr Alexander and others are hoping for. The status quo is very attractive and engaging, so why bother?
Other authors, such as Gregg Braden and Dr Bruce Lipton and others, have been writing about this 'happening' for many years and I've yet to see any real change occurring, at least not in the West where I live. The materialistic "Look after #1" still holds sway, and the focus (taught and inculcated) is still the human, materialist focus on money, material gain, comfort and status. While there's nothing wrong with these things per se, from a spiritual perspective, these things keep many focused on 'getting' stuff rather than going within and finding their spiritual reality.
Maybe readers of this review will not be interested either. I wasn't for many years. Maybe some will deny this perspective as woo-woo, New Age and not real. All I can do is recommend some read this book with an open mind and heart, and suspend being closed-minded and allow skepticism to be challenged.
September 8, 2024
It had some good parts but it also had some ultra-gullible parts too. I wish he was just 30% less out there and naive. The fact he seems to take whatever people say about their past lives at face value is such a bummer, and it kinda completely discredits the idea he promotes that he's a skeptical person who had some undeniable experiences that even a skeptical person like himself couldn't deny. He sounds way more like a person who believes in just about anything anyone says.
If you, for instance, say you're afraid of fire because you know you were a firefighter in the WTC in your previous life he will wow the hell out of you and write your story in his next book.
He sounds that naive, I'm not exaggerating.
I want to believe in what's brought by NDEs, but this book is surely a disservice to the whole thing.
Oh, and it's thrice as long as it needed to be to convey what he wanted to convey.
If you, for instance, say you're afraid of fire because you know you were a firefighter in the WTC in your previous life he will wow the hell out of you and write your story in his next book.
He sounds that naive, I'm not exaggerating.
I want to believe in what's brought by NDEs, but this book is surely a disservice to the whole thing.
Oh, and it's thrice as long as it needed to be to convey what he wanted to convey.
March 8, 2019
There are some real pearls of wisdom not to be missed in Eben Alexanders latest edition to his writings since his Nde/Coma experience. I have been following his story since he first wrote Proof of Heaven and I find his ability to articulate the spiritual world literally a god-send in this day and age.
But what really stands out when I read this book is how his overarching higher self shines through to teach one how to extricate themselves from their own earthbound consciousness, not through exercise or meditation format but just through his storys and discussion. Reading this book sparked so many realisations and insights that I wholly look forward to his next publication.
Namastae Eben & Karen
But what really stands out when I read this book is how his overarching higher self shines through to teach one how to extricate themselves from their own earthbound consciousness, not through exercise or meditation format but just through his storys and discussion. Reading this book sparked so many realisations and insights that I wholly look forward to his next publication.
Namastae Eben & Karen
January 26, 2020
When I started this book, I didn't realize it was a close sequel to Proof of Heaven, which I haven't read. Therefore, when the author talks about his profound NDE, but doesn't provide any details, it left me playing a lot of catch-up. So overall I felt like the title was misleading.
That being said, there were parts of the book I found to be very interesting. The science of neurology is fascinating, especially as applied to Alexander's metaphysical experience. So that was something new.
Other chapters, though, felt a bit self-centered. I wasn't that interested in Alexander's career as a pubic speaker. Near the end, the narrative veered into almost a travel memoir, which again I felt strayed from the central point. So for me, the book was hit and miss.
That being said, there were parts of the book I found to be very interesting. The science of neurology is fascinating, especially as applied to Alexander's metaphysical experience. So that was something new.
Other chapters, though, felt a bit self-centered. I wasn't that interested in Alexander's career as a pubic speaker. Near the end, the narrative veered into almost a travel memoir, which again I felt strayed from the central point. So for me, the book was hit and miss.
February 9, 2025
I'll admit I read this book for a very specific purpose, and looked for specific information that would support my beliefs about universal oneness or consciousness and a few events that took place in my life. I was thoroughly satisfied and encouraged by what I read. There were a couple of excellent breakthroughs in my understanding on this subject.
At the same time, this book could have summed up the whole story for me in about 75 pages. I dislike what I refer to as feel-good books. They sell, I know, and this one is but one of thousands out there. It felt a little like a good fiction, than a book attempting to hurdle the greatest question mankind has faced - the very nature of the universe and the human mind within it. Just saying.
At the same time, this book could have summed up the whole story for me in about 75 pages. I dislike what I refer to as feel-good books. They sell, I know, and this one is but one of thousands out there. It felt a little like a good fiction, than a book attempting to hurdle the greatest question mankind has faced - the very nature of the universe and the human mind within it. Just saying.
January 4, 2026
Meaningful and revealing look into NDEs
Living in a Mindful Universe is a warm, thoughtful continuation of Eben Alexander’s exploration of consciousness. I enjoyed the blend of personal experience, science‑questioning curiosity, and the practical tools Karen Newell adds for expanding awareness. The message of interconnectedness and unconditional love is uplifting and beautifully expressed.
That said, parts of it felt familiar—almost like revisiting themes from Proof of Heaven. Still, the repetition didn’t diminish the overall impact for me. If anything, it reinforced the core ideas and made the book feel like a deepening rather than a retelling.
A meaningful, heart‑opening read for anyone interested in consciousness, spirituality, or near‑death experiences.
Living in a Mindful Universe is a warm, thoughtful continuation of Eben Alexander’s exploration of consciousness. I enjoyed the blend of personal experience, science‑questioning curiosity, and the practical tools Karen Newell adds for expanding awareness. The message of interconnectedness and unconditional love is uplifting and beautifully expressed.
That said, parts of it felt familiar—almost like revisiting themes from Proof of Heaven. Still, the repetition didn’t diminish the overall impact for me. If anything, it reinforced the core ideas and made the book feel like a deepening rather than a retelling.
A meaningful, heart‑opening read for anyone interested in consciousness, spirituality, or near‑death experiences.
September 24, 2021
Interesting Read
I liked this book because of the variation of what the author wrote about. She was very thorough in picking out all the different types of meditation that are out there. However, you could tell that when there was something that she didn’t believe in the chapter would be very short.
Also, if you don’t have a background in the medical field or science field, which I do, you better have a dictionary at your hand. It is pretty medically & scientifically filled.
But, overall, I really enjoyed it. My husband, who is also in the science field, and I had some really good discussions over this book.
I liked this book because of the variation of what the author wrote about. She was very thorough in picking out all the different types of meditation that are out there. However, you could tell that when there was something that she didn’t believe in the chapter would be very short.
Also, if you don’t have a background in the medical field or science field, which I do, you better have a dictionary at your hand. It is pretty medically & scientifically filled.
But, overall, I really enjoyed it. My husband, who is also in the science field, and I had some really good discussions over this book.
April 1, 2022
This book started off strong, but the last half wasn't great. It kept on talking about how great Eben Alexander's girlfriend's binaural beats are. It was hard to get through this book.
I used to be a fan of Eben Alexander. Now, he spends a lot of time promoting his girlfriend's binaural beats company. They seem to be mostly interested in "spiritual" highs. Sometimes, it reminds me of drug addicts.
I used to be a fan of Eben Alexander. Now, he spends a lot of time promoting his girlfriend's binaural beats company. They seem to be mostly interested in "spiritual" highs. Sometimes, it reminds me of drug addicts.
August 3, 2023
This book is less engaging than Proof of Heaven but is still a worthwhile read for those of you into quantum physics and its relationship with healing (on both a personal and global level), spirituality and consciousness. Alexander is a crusader who wants a new paradigm to emerge NOW. Don't we all. There is some practical advice in the book on how to expand one's consciousness, particularly in the areas of meditation and prayer, and I'm taking his suggestions to heart. I'm a believer. Grade: B+
May 26, 2024
I love reading about NDEs. It is an experience like no other. I find people’s experience with it fascinating. I read his first book, Proof of Heaven awhile ago and didn’t realize this was the same author. This book delves into all manners of mind and consciousness and metaphysics. Even a little Ram Dass at the end.
Favorite quote “consider the the fact that you have never witnessed anything outside your own consciousness”
Favorite quote “consider the the fact that you have never witnessed anything outside your own consciousness”
August 4, 2023
High-level read, going to definitely give it another run through.
Neurosurgeon’s journey into the heart of consciousness after experiencing a Near Death Experience (NDE) and a coma. Consciousness is the “glue” that defines reality—hypnotherapy, past lives, thoughts altering your human nature, etc.
Neurosurgeon’s journey into the heart of consciousness after experiencing a Near Death Experience (NDE) and a coma. Consciousness is the “glue” that defines reality—hypnotherapy, past lives, thoughts altering your human nature, etc.
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