Richard J. Davidson, Ph.D., and Cortland Dahl, Ph.D., are among the world’s foremost neuroscientists and contemplative teachers. In Born to Flourish: How New Science and Ancient Wisdom Reveal a Simple Path to Thriving, they draw on decades of research from the Center for Healthy Minds and the non-profit Humin to offer something rare: a program that is both scientifically grounded and immediately livable.

The book is built around four practices — Awareness, Connection, Insight, and Purpose — that together train the brain to move from stress and anxiety toward clarity and calm. Awareness invites full presence with our emotions, allowing us to meet life’s inevitable ups and downs with steadiness rather than reactivity. Connection cultivates kindness and appreciation, deepening relationships and a sense of belonging. Insight draws on self-inquiry to loosen the grip of old narratives. Purpose anchors us in core values, sharpening the judgment we need to make sound decisions.

We are born with a natural capacity to flourish — but capacity requires cultivation. The encouraging finding from Davidson and Dahl’s research is that just a few minutes of daily practice produces measurable change. Born to Flourish makes that practice accessible wherever life finds you: commuting, doing chores, lying in bed. For anyone navigating depression, despair, or loneliness, or simply seeking more from their mental and emotional life, the book offers a clear and actionable way forward.

Davidson is the William James and Vilas Professor of Psychology and Psychiatry at the University of Wisconsin–Madison the founder and director of the Center for Healthy Minds and of the nonprofit Humin. Dahl is a research scientist at the Center and the Chief Contemplative Officer at Humin.

Davidson and Dahl will be in conversation with Jacqueline Moreno, Chief Service Officer of the Illinois Student Assistance Commission, overseeing the agency’s public-facing direct service work with students, families, schools, colleges, and partner organizations across Illinois.

Bonus Book Giveaway: FAN is giving away copies of Born to Flourish to randomly selected Zoom attendees. Details on the webinar registration page.

This event is suitable for youth ages 12 and up. It will be recorded and available on FAN’s website and YouTube channel.