Tamara Russell, MSc, PhD, PsyD - Martial Arts, Neuroscience & Mindfulness
Dr. Tamara Russell talks about her training in Shaolin Kung Fu and the neuroscience of martial arts and mindfulness on The FitMind Podcast episode 43.
You can also listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or any other major podcast platform.
Episode Overview
Tamara Russell, PhD is a clinical psychologist, martial artist (with a black belt in Shaolin Kung Fu), and neuroscientist.
In this episode, we talk about Dr. Russell's martial arts training in Shaolin Kung Fu, spotting mental patterns, using western psychology and neurocognitive models to understand eastern practices, and the relationship between the brain and consciousness.
We also discuss transpersonal and clinical psychology, neuroscience research into meditative states, and the challenges with bringing eastern techniques into a western secular context.
This is a very timely conversation given the current pandemic and her applicable system called Body in Mind Training (BMT), which blends neuroscience, martial arts, and mindfulness.
Hope you enjoy!
P.S. — If you’re serious about starting or deepening your meditation practice, check out the FitMind meditation app.
Dr. Tamara Russell Bio
Dr. Tamara Russell is the Director of the Mindfulness Centre of Excellence in London and a visiting lecturer at King's College London in the Neuroimaging Department of the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience. Dr. Russell's clinical and academic research explores the link between movement, mind, and the brain. She practices and teaches Kung Fu, Tai Chi, Qigong, and other martial arts.
Dr. Russell holds a B.S. in Psychology, a Masters in Neuroscience, a Ph.D. in Psychology, and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. She is also the author of two books: What is Mindfulness? and Mindfulness in Motion. To learn more about Dr. Tamara Russell and her work, check out her website.