| Key Takeaways from the Evening:
? Quieting the Mind: Jon walked us through his simple yet effective three-step practice for calming the nervous system—breathing deeply, feeling supported by the chair and ground, and repeating a positive mantra. This technique, which has helped thousands of patients in hospitals and beyond, empowers us to reclaim a sense of control in uncertain moments.
? Mantra as Medicine: A major theme of the evening was the power of mantra—a repeated phrase or affirmation that protects the mind. Jon explained how this cognitive and spiritual tool can help redirect anxious thoughts and create a sense of stability even in the most challenging situations. He also played the harmonium and sang a beautiful mantra, filling the space with a profound sense of peace and connection.
? Death as a Wise Advisor: In a deeply moving discussion, Jon invited us to consider a new perspective: What if we viewed death not as an endpoint but as a guide to living fully? Drawing inspiration from his mentors Ram Dass, Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, and Stephen Levine, he shared how embracing the impermanence of life can lead to greater joy, purpose, and appreciation for the present moment.
? A Legacy of Healing: Jon’s impact in the field of mind-body medicine is undeniable. As a founder of Duke University Hospital’s Stress Management Consult Team, he conducted over 40,000 patient consults, teaching staff and patients alike how to manage pain, anxiety, and uncertainty through mindfulness practices. Even the Acute Pain Serviceat Duke consulted him for patients on post-op ketamine therapy. His work has changed lives, and last night, we were lucky to learn directly from him. |
