“Evolutionary biologists tell us we have a “negativity bias” that makes our brains remember negative events more strongly than positive ones. So when we’re feeling lost or discouraged, it can be very hard to conjure up memories and feelings of happiness and ease.”

American meditation teacher and author of the 1970s and beyond, Sharon Salzberg is a pioneer in the secular practice of mindfulness and compassion meditation. Her work bridges Eastern spiritual traditions with modern psychology, making them accessible to a broad audience.