Shinzen Young’s The Science of Enlightenment Online Course
A rare opportunity to study with Shinzen, and experience the book’s insights directly in your meditation practice
If you don't already know, much of what I (Toby) present in Brightmind is based on an approach to meditation developed by Shinzen Young. Shinzen is one of the most unique and powerful teachers alive today. His rigorous system, inspired by the spirit of science, delivers industrial strength results—authentic experiences of no-self, union between inside and outside, and effortless concentration.
One of the best distillations of Shinzen’s approach is his book, The Science of Enlightenment, which has become a cult classic among serious meditators. Now, we’re bringing the book to life in an interactive course designed to help you experience the book’s insights directly in your meditation practice.
I (Toby) have had the privilege of working closely with Shinzen for the past 15 years. We’ve collaborated on scientific research, Shinzen advised a monastery that I trained at for years, and Shinzen helped me design Brightmind’s curriculum. I know Shinzen’s system inside and out, and I’m uniquely qualified to help you understand, apply, and even critique Shinzen’s ideas.
Here are the basic parts of the course:
Weekly 1.5 hr meetings: Chapter review, Q&A, and guided meditation
2 live Ask Me Anythings with the one and only Shinzen Young–your chance to ask your deepest questions, directly to the source
Weekly 30-min breakout groups to connect with fellow students
30 total sessions
5 daily group sits for ongoing support
Dedicated group chat for sharing reflections
Classes are held on Wednesdays at 5pm, LA / 8pm, NYC / 2am, Paris / 10am, Sydney (Paris & Sydney times are actually the following day–Thursday)
Classes begin November 5th, 2025
No class the weeks of Christmas and New Years. Last class is March 4th.
If you miss a class or want to review, you’ll have access to recordings of all classes.
Shinzen Young, author of The Science of Enlightenment
“The guided meditations helped me not only understand the topics, but experience them.”
“Toby’s candid takes were always insightful and sometimes hilarious!”
“The lectures expanded on the ideas and added fascinating context.”
“I loved listening to others ask questions and share their experience.”
About Your Guide, Toby Sola
Toby Sola is dedicated to helping you create a feedback loop between your meditation practice and your ability to make the world a better place. So the more you meditate, the more effective you are in the world. And the more effective you are, the deeper your meditation practice becomes.
Toby has been teaching meditation for two decades. His craft as a teacher has been refined through years of monastic training and close collaboration with the world-renowned teacher Shinzen Young. Toby is an award-winning designer and the founder of Brightmind.
Spotify Playlist: Toby’s Tunes