This August a pioneering group of world-class experts will meet at a public conference to put forward groundbreaking frameworks for a fast-growing Western interest: meditation. No longer a fringe activity, meditation is now medically recommended for heart disease patients and even business executives. Since the 1970s scientists have taken an interest in brain wave patterns associated with regular meditators, and studies reveal the extraordinary benefits of meditation.

All the speakers at this conference have extensive experience of meditation in addition to their scholarly expertise. This makes it an exciting occasion where there can be a true meeting of outer and inner in a spirit of open exploration.

Confirmed speakers include:

Beyond the Brain will also be experiential, with communal meditations and contemplative walks, especially to the nearby ruins of Fountains Abbey, perhaps one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in England. There also will be plenty of time for informal conversations and an exchange of ideas over meals and drinks with other participants.

*John Cleese's remark about Guy Claxton, conference speaker.

Beyond the Brain is organized by the Scientific and Medical Network, Infinity Foundation Spirituality (the specialist interest group of the Royal College Of Psychiatrists) and the British Psychological Society (Transpersonal Section).