161: Can Science Measure Spiritual Experiences? Neuroscience of Awe, Meditation & Healing with Nicco Reggente

What happens in the brain and body when we experience awe, deep meditation, chills, insight, or profound moments of connection? In this episode Dr. Lorne Brown sits down with cognitive neuroscientist, UCLA lecturer, and Institute for Advanced Consciousness Studies co-founder Dr. Nicco Regente to explore the science behind non-ordinary states of consciousness.Together, they discuss meditation, heart-brain dynamics, immersive technologies, psychedelic-inspired experiences, belief change, interoception, and the fascinating neuroscience of “chills” — those goosebump-inducing moments that may signal meaningful shifts in perception and understanding. Nicco shares how emerging research is helping scientists measure transformative states and why openness, curiosity, and awe may play a crucial role in human flourishing.Key Takeaways:Non-ordinary states may help reduce internal noise and support meaningful belief change.Stroboscopic light technology may produce rapid state changes similar to longer meditation sessions.Repeated experiences alone do not guarantee transformation; integration is essential.Chills and goosebumps may reflect moments of deep learning and worldview updating.Openness, curiosity, and engagement with art can help cultivate greater flourishing and self-transcendence.Where to find Nicco Reggente:Website: https://advancedconsciousness.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iacslab/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/advancedconsciousnessYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@iacslabNicco Reggente’s Bio:Dr. Nicco Reggente is a neuroscientist, UCLA lecturer, and co-founder of the Institute for Advanced Consciousness Studies, where he serves as Research Director and Principal Investigator. His research explores consciousness, meditation, immersive technologies, neurofeedback, and human flourishing, with a focus on developing personalized neurotechnology that helps people access beneficial states of awareness and well-being.He holds a Ph.D. and M.A. in Cognitive Neuroscience from UCLA, and dual bachelor's degrees in Philosophy and Psychology from NYU.📧 For guest opportunities, collaborations or sponsorship inquiries, please email us at: [email protected] to connect to Lorne Brown online and in person (Vancouver, BC)Acubalance.ca book virtual or in person conscious work sessions with Dr. Lorne BrownLornebrown.comConscious hacks and tools to optimize your fertility by Dr. Lorne Brown:https://acubalance.ca/conscious-work/Connect with Lorne and the podcast on Instagram:@coherence_code_podcast @acubalancewellnesscentre@lorne_brown_officialDISCLAIMER: By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use it as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others. This podcast offers information to help the listener cooperate with physicians, mental health professionals or other healthcare providers in a mutual quest for optimal well-being. We advise listeners to carefully review and understand the ideas presented, and to consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. Under no circumstances shall Acubalance, any guests or contributors to the Coherence Code Podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of Acubalance be responsible for damages arising from the use of the podcast.