Born to Flourish by Richard J. Davidson & Cortland Dahl - Hardcover

What does it really take to live a calmer, more meaningful, and fulfilling life?

In Born to Flourish, neuroscientist Richard J. Davidson, PhD, and contemplative scientist Cortland Dahl, PhD, bring together modern neuroscience and centuries of contemplative wisdom to show that well-being is something we can actively cultivate.

Drawing on decades of research from the Center for Healthy Minds, the authors introduce four core skills that can help us navigate everyday life with greater awareness, resilience, connection, and purpose.

The Four Skills of Flourishing

Awareness
Learn to notice your thoughts, emotions, and experiences more clearly so you can respond with greater presence instead of moving through life on autopilot.

Connection
Strengthen your relationships and sense of belonging by cultivating kindness, appreciation, and genuine care for yourself and others.

Insight
Develop a deeper understanding of your own patterns, beliefs, and inner narratives so you can relate to yourself with greater clarity.

Purpose
Reconnect with the values and motivations that matter most, helping everyday choices feel more intentional and meaningful.

The practices in Born to Flourish are designed to fit into real life. You don't need hours of meditation or a complete lifestyle overhaul. The authors show how simple moments throughout your day can become opportunities to strengthen the skills that support lasting well-being.

With practical exercises, science-backed insights, and relatable stories, this book is an encouraging guide for anyone who wants to slow down, understand themselves more deeply, and create a life that feels more connected and intentional.

Why You'll Love It

• Blends neuroscience with practical mindfulness and contemplative wisdom
• Focuses on four approachable skills: awareness, connection, insight, and purpose
• Includes simple practices that can fit into everyday routines
• Encourages greater clarity, resilience, and self-understanding
• Ideal for readers interested in mindfulness, personal growth, positive psychology, and meditation
• A thoughtful companion for journaling and reflective reading
• Makes a meaningful gift for someone beginning a new chapter or seeking a more intentional life

About the Authors

Richard J. Davidson, PhD, is a professor of psychology and psychiatry and the founder and director of the Center for Healthy Minds at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. His research has focused extensively on emotion, meditation, well-being, and the brain. He is also the coauthor of Altered Traits and The Emotional Life of Your Brain.

Cortland Dahl, PhD, is a contemplative scientist at the Center for Healthy Minds and Chief Contemplative Officer at Humin. His background spans neuroscience, meditation, Buddhist studies, translation, and contemplative practice, and he helped create the Healthy Minds Program.

Book Details - Hardcover

Authors: Richard J. Davidson, PhD & Cortland Dahl, PhD
Pages: 304
Dimensions: 6" x 9" approximately
Publisher: Avid Reader Press / Simon & Schuster
Publication Date: March 24, 2026
ISBN: 9781668066232

A thoughtful reminder that flourishing isn't about creating a perfect life—it's about building the inner skills to meet the life you already have.