The effects of mindfulness meditation for pain relief are one of the most reliable effects of this ancient practice. Yet, the active mechanisms supporting mindfulness-based pain relief remain poorly characterized. In this workshop, Dr. Zeidan, leading mindfulness-based cognitive neuroscientist with an expertise in pain, will team up with UC San Diego’s Center for Mindfulness Founding Director to lead a day of scientific exploration and meditative practice. Dr. Zeidan will provide an easily understandable delineation of the neural, physiological and psychological processes supporting mindfulness-based pain relief. He will also delve into research demonstrating how mindfulness changes the brain, is different from placebo and other meditative practices, and involved processes that are unique and distinct from other mind-body approaches. In addition, there will also be a section focused on the role of compassion meditation and pain relief, an emerging field of science. Over 20 years ago, Dr. Hickman began his integration of mindfulness practice in clinical settings working (successfully) with people suffering with chronic pain and other health challenges. Dr. Hickman will guide participants in a range of meditative practices found to reliably reduce pain and suffering in the laboratory and clinic. These practices will include traditional mindfulness practices like awareness of breath, walking meditation, loving kindness and compassion practices. We are very excited to offer this exciting workshop with two of the leading experts in their respective fields.