Join us for this gathering with:
Ranjung Neljorma Khandro Tseringma Rinpoche,
Richard J. Davidson, PhD,
& Daniel Goleman, PhD
What does science reveal about happiness — and what does it look like to actually live it?
Join Khandro Tseringma Rinpoche, Daniel Goleman, Richard Davidson, and leading scientists for a special conversation that brings together contemplative wisdom and modern science.
The gathering will explore how Buddhist traditions and scientific research can deepen our understanding of genuine happiness – not simply as an idea, but as something that can be cultivated and experienced in our lives.
TIMING
This is a day-long event at the Garrison Institute. It will begin at 9:30 a.m. ET and run until 4:30 p.m. ET. Lunch will be provided.
OPENING THE WISDOM WITHIN RETREAT
If you are registered for this retreat with Khandro Rinpoche from November 11-14, your registration for this conference will be complimentary. Otherwise please register below.
TEACHERS
Rangjung Neljorma Khandro Namsel Dolma (‘Khandrola Rinpoche’) is a revered Tibetan Buddhist master whose profound presence illuminates the path of exceptional insight and boundless compassion.

Dr. Richard Davidson received his Ph.D. from Harvard University in Psychology in 1976. Davidson’s research is broadly focused on the neural bases of emotion and emotional style and methods to promote human flourishing including meditation and related contemplative practices. He has published over 600 papers, numerous chapters and reviews, and edited over 20 books. Davidson released his newest book, “Born to Flourish” with Cortland Dahl in March 2026. Davidson and Dahl bring together neuroscience and contemplative science to cultivate well-being and meaning amid the ever-increasing challenges of modern life. The book focuses on small, evidence-based practices while also grappling with the broader societal conditions shaping attention, emotion, and human connection. Davidson is also author with Sharon Begley of “The Emotional Life of Your Brain” published in 2012, and co-author with Daniel Goleman of “Altered Traits” published in 2017. Davidson was named one of the 100 most influential people in the world by Time Magazine in 2006. He was elected to the National Academy of Medicine in 2017 and appointed to the Governing Board of UNESCO’s Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development (MGIEP) in 2018. In 2014, Davidson founded Humin (formerly Healthy Minds Innovations), a global nonprofit on a mission to make wellbeing real by translating science into action. https://www.richardjdavidson.com/
Richard

Daniel Goleman, PhD, is a psychologist, science journalist, and internationally renowned author best known for pioneering the concept of emotional intelligence. His groundbreaking book Emotional Intelligence transformed how leadership, education, and personal wellbeing are understood worldwide. A former science writer for The New York Times, Goleman has authored numerous bestselling books exploring emotional intelligence, mindfulness, compassion, ethics, and ecological responsibility.
For questions, please contact us at: events@garrisoninstitute.org or visit this page of our most frequently asked questions.

