The Awakened Brain: The New Science of Spirituality & Our Quest for an Inspired Life
with Researcher & Author Lisa Miller, PhD
Professor of Clinical Psychology at Teachers College, Columbia University
Founder and Director of the Spirituality Mind Body Institute, the first Ivy League graduate program in Spirituality and Psychology
Monday, May 5, & Tuesday, May 6
at First Lutheran Church (1000 3rd Avenue SE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa) & Online
Through the research of Dr. Lisa Miller, MRI studies have demonstrated that all humans are born with an innate spiritual capacity. Within the spiritual network of the brain, enhanced cortical thickness is present in those for whom spirituality is essential. Why does one’s cortical thickness matter? It provides structural protection against depression, addiction and other diseases of despair.
Dr. Miller’s research reflects that the brains of highly spiritual people have a healthier neural structure than those for whom spirituality and religion are of medium, low or no importance. Our brains are hardwired to connect to something greater than ourselves.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) within the Department of Health and Human Services has identified spirituality as one of the eight key components of overall wellness.
According to National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) 2021 data, 473,000 adults in Iowa have a mental health condition. That’s more than three times the population of Cedar Rapids.
What if an enhanced focus on spiritual development provides another tool in the toolkit to support those struggling with depression, anxiety, or addiction? What if cultivating the innate spiritual core could add another level of support for people?
Join Dr. Lisa Miller as we delve deeply into spirituality and how it correlates with a healthy brain.
All are welcome to attend any session. Similar content will be available at all three sessions, focusing on human services and youth on Tuesday morning and healthcare on Tuesday evening. You are invited to choose one session to attend.
Monday, May 5, 6–8:15 p.m. (in person or online)
Keynote & Daily Practices Workshop (open to all)
at First Lutheran Church (1000 3rd Avenue SE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa)
Books will be available for purchase.
Cost: $25 (Students with a student ID are welcome for just $10.)
This session will be offered both in person and online.
Tuesday, May 6, 9:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Keynote & Daily Practices Workshop (9:30 a.m.–12 p.m., open to all with dedicated content for those who work in human services or with youth)
Lunch & Book Signing (12–1:30 p.m.)
at First Lutheran Church (1000 3rd Avenue SE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa)
Books will be available for purchase, and Dr. Miller will be available for signing books.
Cost: $40 (includes lunch) (Students with a student ID are welcome for just $10.)
Tuesday, May 6, 6–8:15 p.m.
Keynote & Daily Practices Workshop (open to all with dedicated content for those who work in healthcare; CME & CEU credits available)
at First Lutheran Church (1000 3rd Avenue SE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa)
Books will be available for purchase.
Cost: $25 (Students with a student ID are welcome for just $10.)
The Awakened Brain Pre-Event Book Study (March 27–April 24)
To prepare for The Awakened Brain event, you are invited to join us for a transformative journey through Dr. Lisa Miller’s groundbreaking book The Awakened Brain: The New Science of Spirituality and Our Quest for an Inspired Life. Over the course of five weeks (March 27–April 24), this online book study invites you to explore the profound connection between science, spirituality and mental health.
SPECIAL BUNDLE SAVINGS: If you would like to register for the book study and one of the sessions on May 5 or 6, receive $10 off! Call Prairiewoods at 319-395-6700 for this special discount.
Spirituality in the 21st Century Speakers & Topics
Spirituality in the 21st Century has been our major annual event since 2001. If you’d like to read a history of the facilitators who have guided us through past events, please click here.