Dr. Thomas S. Bottiglieri Interviews Sharon Salzberg on the Pillars of Happiness

Columbia providers, faculty, and staff members recently attended a session on meditation and mindfulness in the workplace. The session titled “Pillars of Happiness for Discussion: Resilience, Compassion, and Integrity” took place on Wednesday, September 18th. The session, designed to fit into attendee’s lunch break, featured an interview with Columbia Orthopedics Chief of Sports Medicine and Director of Wellness Thomas S. Bottiglieri, DO and one of the world’s leading meditation teachers Sharon Salzberg; a mindfulness meditation experience; and a closing discussion. 

Sharon Salzberg played a pivotal role in introducing mainstream culture to meditation and mindfulness practices since she first began teaching in 1974. Since then, she has become a central figure in the field of meditation, world-renowned teacher and NY Times bestselling author. With her colleagues, Sharon established the Insight Meditation Society (IMS) in Barre, Massachusetts, with her colleagues, which is one of the most prominent and active meditation centers in the Western world. 

Wednesday’s session focused on Sharon’s book titled Real Happiness at Work: Meditations for Accomplishment, Achievement, and Peace. Real Happiness at Work focuses on 8 pillars of happiness: balance, concentration, compassion, resilience, communication and connection, integrity, meaning, and open awareness. However, Wednesday’s session focused on resilience, compassion and integrity as well as how their practical application can enhance everyday lives.

“Sharon’s compassion driven meditation is an important element for medical professionals to keep in mind as they take care of others,” said Dr. Bottiglieri. “We have some of the best and brightest people in the world dedicated to providing top care for our patients; however, it’s essential that we take time to have compassion for ourselves as well. That compassion will only translate to an even better experience for our patients.”