KARMA REWIRED: NEUROPLASTICITY, HABITS, AND THE PATTERNS WE LIVE BY
Long before neuroscience had a word for it, contemplative traditions were already describing how our actions shape us - they called it Karma. Join Paola, Dr. Abha & Swami Revatikaanta for the fourth Science & Spirituality series, where we will explore how contemplative traditions and modern brain science converge on a shared truth: our repeated thoughts, actions, and intentions physically reshape who we become.
This conversation bridges spiritual inquiry and empirical research to examine karma not as fate, but as pattern - the neural pathways strengthened by repetition, the loops of intention and consequence, and the brain's remarkable capacity for change.
Dr. Abha, a neuroscientist and researcher based in New York City, will draw on her work and her upbringing in Nepal to help us understand how ancient concepts of cause and effect map onto neuroplasticity, habit formation, and our ongoing capacity to become someone new.
-
AGENDA
2.30PM Doors Open
3PM Welcome & Panel Begins
4PM Open Q&A
4.30PM Connection Hour
5PM Event Close
*enjoy a delicious vegetarian spread sponsored by NEA. DETAILS
-
EVENT DETAILS
Date: Saturday October 24th
Time: 3-5PM
Tickets: EARLY BIRD $35 | AT THE DOOR $45
-
ON THE PANEL
Dr. ABHA RAJBHANDARI is an Assistant Professor in the Departments of Psychiatry and Neuroscience at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, where she studies the mechanisms underlying brain–body interactions in stress. She received her Ph.D. in Neuroscience from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and completed her postdoctoral training at the University of California, Los Angeles. Outside the lab, Dr. Rajbhandari is a holistic health practitioner and teacher, deeply rooted in Yoga and Advaita Vedanta. For her, yoga is not simply a practice confined to the mat, but a way of living that can be woven into every aspect of daily life. Born in Nepal and later moving to the United States to pursue higher education, Dr. Rajbhandari’s spiritual journey began early and continues to evolve. She explores profound questions about human existence through the lenses of science, logic, reasoning, knowledge, and mysticism. Her work and teaching are united by a passion for bridging scientific and philosophical understandings of life.
Connect with Dr. Abha on Instagram: @neurobreathe
SWAMI REVATIKAANTA is a spiritual educator, senior monk and renowned speaker. With nearly two decades of discipleship and deep study of sacred texts, he has cultivated a profound understanding of Vedic philosophy and human psychology. Inspired by his Spiritual Teacher, Paramahamsa Vishwananda, he has taught thousands across the globe, offering clear, insightful, and often humorous guidance to those walking the spiritual path. Swami is known for his direct communication style and a unique ability to draw out relevant wisdom for any situation. His latest project, the Thinking Bhakti podcast, delves into spiritual topics through the lens of Bhakti while bridging traditional yogic teachings- like those found in the Bhagavad Gita- with the needs of today’s spiritual seekers. He also offers courses on Yogic Philosophy and the Gita, helping to make timeless teachings accessible and meaningful to contemporary practitioners.
Connect with Swami on Instagram: @svrevatikaanta
PAOLA CRUZ is the host and creator of the "Science &Spirituality" Series. She is an 850HR E-RYT Yoga and Meditation Guide, Certified in India, with over 16 years of personal experience in the field. Paola has taught over 2500 hours of classes all around the world including at The NBA, Avon, Nestle, Hyatt Hotels, Hilton Hotels, and many private events. She is also Certified in Mindfulness Therapy, Mudra Yoga, Pre & Post Natal, and Yoga Therapy. Paola is considered a "Pioneer in Yoga" in her home country, Honduras, where she has helped to grow the Yoga community. Paola curates wellness programs and retreats for luxury hotels and boutique properties. She is also the wellness program curator at Motto by Hilton in Chelsea, NYC, and is an active board member for the non-for-profit, Bhakti Marga America.
Connect with Paola on Instagram: @practicewithpaola
-
As always, this gathering is as much about connection and reflection as it is about ideas. Part of the proceeds from this event will go toward supporting relief efforts for those affected by the recent floods in Nepal and Tibet - a meaningful way to turn shared learning into shared action.
LOCATION
Motto by Hilton 113 W 24th St New York, NY, 10128
QUESTIONS Please contact Paola via email: paola@practicewithpaola.com
*please note that because of the intimate nature of this event, no refunds or credits will be offered. If you are no longer to attend, please consider gifting or selling your re-selling your ticket.