Key concepts
Definitions
The fields Laura works in — and the practices she teaches — are often discussed loosely. Here are clear, grounded definitions of four terms central to her work.
Behavior Analysis
Behavior analysis is the scientific study of behavior and the principles that govern it. Rooted in decades of empirical research, it examines how behavior is influenced by the environment — including what happens before and after a behavior occurs. Applied behavior analysis (ABA) puts these principles to practical use, designing interventions to improve socially significant behaviors in areas such as education, autism treatment, organizational management, and health. It is defined by its commitment to direct observation, measurement, and evidence-based practice.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the practice of intentionally paying attention to the present moment with openness and without judgment. Rather than dwelling on the past or anticipating the future, mindfulness involves noticing thoughts, feelings, and sensations as they arise — and relating to them with curiosity rather than reactivity. Rooted in contemplative traditions and now supported by a growing body of scientific research, mindfulness practices have been shown to reduce stress, improve attention, and support emotional well-being. In a behavioral framework, mindfulness can be understood as a set of learnable skills — observable, measurable, and open to systematic study.
Yoga
Yoga is an ancient practice that integrates physical postures, breathwork, and focused awareness to cultivate strength, flexibility, and mental clarity. While it originated as a broad philosophical and spiritual tradition, modern yoga as practiced in the West emphasizes the physical and contemplative dimensions — movement linked with breath and attention. Research has linked regular yoga practice with benefits including reduced stress, improved mood, greater body awareness, and enhanced focus. As both a physical discipline and a form of mindfulness practice, yoga offers a complementary pathway to the skills studied in behavioral science.
Meditation
Meditation is a structured practice of training attention and awareness. It typically involves setting aside time to sit quietly and direct the mind — whether by focusing on the breath, observing thoughts without attachment, or cultivating qualities such as compassion and equanimity. There are many forms of meditation, from concentration-based practices to open-monitoring techniques, each with a growing evidence base. Research links regular meditation practice with measurable changes in stress physiology, attentional control, and emotional regulation — effects that behavioral scientists are working to understand in precise, replicable terms.