The best meditation practices for your brain
Mindfulness is a hot topic, with its benefits linked to supporting mental health, lowering stress, […]
Recent research offers daily habits proven to train the mind and help you reach your goals
Like all of our muscles, the brain’s functionality is connected to its hydration level. By drinking enough water (and functional beverages like teas, and tonics), we allow our brains to function optimally— maximizing our focus and concentration.
We all have heard about the importance of drinking water. Since water makes up 60% of the human body,1 it is essential for many of our basic functions, including brain functions. Our brains rely on water for energy to complete complicated tasks and to make hormones and neurotransmitters 2 — special brain chemicals that are necessary for communication throughout the brain.
Throughout the day we lose water through sweat, breathing, and waste elimination.3 If we don’t rehydrate, it can leave us feeling sluggish, grumpy, and unfocused. As we age, it becomes even more important to stay hydrated because our bodies naturally store less water due to changes in muscle mass and fat gain.3 Women, in particular, are at a higher risk for dehydration, especially older women who tend to experience more significant cognitive decline than older men when dehydrated.4
A lot happens to our brains when we are dehydrated. The lack of energy in our brain cells means the brain has to work harder than usual to do basic tasks that require our attention and focus.3 This added effort leads to different symptoms, including decreased attention and focus, brain fog, and mood changes.
Dehydration levels can vary from mild to severe and affect us in different ways.5 While mild dehydration may not significantly affect the cognitive abilities of young adults, it can impair their mood. On the other hand, for older adults, the impacts of even mild dehydration can have far greater impacts, leading to decreases in cognitive performance and ability.5 Drinking water throughout the day is the best way to improve cognitive performance and mood.6
So if staying hydrated is so challenging, what is the best way to do it? While regularly drinking water is a great start, here are some other tools to help optimize your hydration.
“Your brain is 80% water, which means you need to stay well-hydrated in order to keep your brain functioning optimally.”
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1. The Water School (2019) The Water in You: Water and the Human Body. U.S. Geological Survey. https://www.usgs.gov/special-topics/water-science-school/science/water-you-water-and-human-body#:~:text=Up%20to%2060%25%20of%20the,bones%20are%20watery%3A%2031%25.
2. Mills, B. (2020). Can dehydration impair cognitive function? Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation. https://www.alzdiscovery.org/cognitive-vitality/blog/can-dehydration-impair-cognitive-function#:~:text=Therefore%2C%20if%20water%20levels%20are,complete%20the%20task%20%5B1%5D.
3. Harvard School of Public Health. Water. (2021). The Nutrition Source. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/water/
4. Bethancourt, H. J., Kenney, W. L., Almeida, D. M., & Rosinger, A. Y. (2020). Cognitive performance in relation to hydration status and water intake among older adults, NHANES 2011–2014. European Journal of Nutrition, 59(7), 3133–3148. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00394-019-02152-9
5. Pross, N. (2017). Effects of Dehydration on Brain Functioning: A Life-Span Perspective. Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism, 70(Suppl. 1), 30–36. https://doi.org/10.1159/000463060
6. Masento, N., Golightly, M., Field, D., Butler, L. T., & Van Reekum, C. M. (2014). Effects of hydration status on cognitive performance and mood. British Journal of Nutrition, 111(10), 1841–1852. https://doi.org/10.1017/s0007114513004455
7. Mancini, E., Beglinger, C., Drewe, J., Zanchi, D., Lang, U. E., & Borgwardt, S. (2017). Green tea effects on cognition, mood and human brain function: A systematic review. Phytomedicine, 34, 26–37. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2017.07.008
8. Hedley, E. (2021). Medicinal Mushrooms for Brain Health. Teelixir. https://teelixir.com/blogs/news/mushrooms-for-brain-health#references
9. Medicinal Mushrooms: 7 Kinds and Their Unique Health Benefits. (2022). Real Mushrooms. https://www.realmushrooms.com/7-medicinal-mushroom-benefits-for-health/
Supplement all you want, but research has shown that when it comes to improving concentration, nothing beats a strong meditation and stillness practice. A quiet mind lets you to focus on what’s important — and ignore what’s not.
Our world has become increasingly busy, which has resulted in added distractions, multitasking, and stress. All of these impact our ability to focus. It’s no wonder that concentration and focus have become so challenging. An effective way to regain our focus is through meditation.
Meditation originated as a Buddhist practice as a way to achieve enlightenment. It inspired generations of practitioners to sit in mindful awareness and use their breath to find peace.1 While it’s been practiced for centuries in many Eastern cultures, it has only gained popularity in the Western world over the last few decades as a way to help with different health challenges. The practice involves sitting in a quiet space, closing the eyes, and focusing the mind on a specific target (the breath, an image, or a sensation for example).2
Meditation practices differ, focusing on things from relaxation to exercise to promoting a higher sense of well-being.3 In light of the broad spectrum of meditation practices, it’s important to do some research to determine which type of practice can best benefit you in achieving your specific goals.
Research shows that a prolonged meditation practice can have a positive impact not only on our subjective experience — how we feel — but also on how our brains function.4 Studies have demonstrated that a regular meditation practice can lead to increased connections in the areas of the brain associated with various aspects of awareness.5
Most meditations that improve focus involve contraction of a specific focal point. Types of meditation that help with focus include:
If you are new to focus meditation or are just coming back to it after a break, there are a variety of tools that can help you establish this practice.
Once you figure out what works for you, you can develop your meditation practice from there. Consider increasing your sitting time, branching out into different styles, and trying different platforms that align with your specific goals. No matter what you do, establishing a consistent meditation practice in your daily routine can have significant benefits for your focus and attention. After putting together a routine that works for you, you’ll wonder how you ever managed to live without it.
“Efforts to deepen your focus will struggle if you don’t simultaneously wean your mind from a dependence on distraction.”
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Ice Barrel 300 and Ice Barrel 400 are fully insulated cold therapy tools that can be used with ice or a chiller. Cold therapy helps reduce depression and stress by activating the parasympathetic nervous system. It also reduces inflammation throughout the body and boosts the immune system.
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1. A Brief History of Meditation. (2021). Mindworks Meditation. https://mindworks.org/blog/history-origins-of-meditation/
2. What is Mindfulness? (2023). Mindful. https://www.mindful.org/what-is-mindfulness/
3. Lutz, A., Slagter, H. A., Dunne, J. P., & Davidson, R. J. (2008). Attention regulation and monitoring in meditation. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 12(4), 163–169. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tics.2008.01.005
4. Lazar, S. W., Kerr, C. E., Wasserman, R. M., Gray, J., Greve, D. N., Treadway, M. T., McGarvey, M., Quinn, B., Dusek, J. A., Benson, H., Rauch, S. L., Moore, C. I., & Fischl, B. (2005). Meditation experience is associated with increased cortical thickness. Neuroreport, 16(17), 1893–1897. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.wnr.0000186598.66243.19
5. Kang, D. H., Jo, H. J., Jung, W. H., Kim, S., Jung, Y. L., Choi, C. K., Lee, U. S., An, S. H., Jang, J. H., & Kwon, J. S. (2013). The effect of meditation on brain structure: cortical thickness mapping and diffusion tensor imaging. Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience, 8(1), 27–33. https://doi.org/10.1093/scan/nss056
6. How to Meditate for Better Concentration. (2022). Mindworks Meditation. https://mindworks.org/blog/how-meditate-better-concentration/
7. Sharma, K., Wernicke, A. G., Rahman, H., Potters, L., Sharma, G., & Parashar, B. (2022). A Retrospective Analysis of Three Focused Attention Meditation Techniques: Mantra, Breath, and External-Point Meditation. Cureus. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.23589
8. Monahan, M. (2023). 3 Empowering Mantras & How To Use Them In Your Meditation Practice. Mindbodygreen. https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/how-does-mantra-meditation-work-guide-to-how-to-start
Supplements that help with cognitive function, known as nootropics, are effective tools to optimize your brain for improved memory and concentration. Adopt these herbs and supplements to support your focus and live your best life.
Dietary supplements have been used for decades to biohack our nutrition. In a world where many of us are too busy to make our own food, it’s no wonder we may need a little extra support. Brain supplementation has become increasingly popular in recent years, as distractions and multitasking have become more prevalent and people are searching for ways to improve their focus and concentration.
In the biohacking world, we use the term nootropics to refer to supplements that help with cognitive function. These supplements work by increasing mental functions such as memory, creativity, motivation, and attention.1 While some are natural compounds found in nature, others are synthetic and produced in a laboratory. Research on the effectiveness of these supplements is ongoing, but they are generally considered safe and may be worth considering for individuals seeking to improve their cognitive abilities.
Studies have indicated that certain nootropic supplements can be effective in improving focus. Many focus-centered brain supplements are composed of specific nutrients that are linked to improving focus and concentration. There are many natural nootropics that are known to support energy and focus including rosemary, peppermint, and sage. These can all increase alertness, attention, and cognitive performance if inhaled or ingested.2 In fact, when used as an essential oil supplement, sage has been shown to improve memory and attention tasks as well as alertness over a 4-hour period. 3
Omega-3 fatty acids have also been linked to enhancing different aspects of brain function such as neuroplasticity — the growth of new brain cell connections- and attention.4 Omega-3 supplements may even increase learning and memory, cognitive well-being, and blood flow in the brain.5 In addition, they have demonstrated neuroprotective properties suggesting that this compound can potentially combat cognitive decline associated with aging.
While there are many different kinds of natural nootropics that have brain benefits, some also have side effects and may interact with other medications. Therefore, it’s important to be cautious when considering supplements for focus and attention and to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen.
“Supplements can be a useful tool for addressing specific nutrient deficiencies or supporting certain health goals.”
HVMN Ketone-IQ™ is a clean energy boost that helps you feel clear, focused, and ready to take on the day with just one shot. Ketones are a powerful macronutrient with clinically studied benefits. The product comes in two convenient sizes: a multi-serving bottle with 10 servings and a travel bottle with 1 serving that’s TSA/carry-on friendly.
Neural RX and ELIXIRX are products made by Wizard Sciences. Neural RX contains a solvent-free C60, also referred to as Carbon 60, a molecule with great potential because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. ELIXIRX enhances the distribution and absorption of fullerenes, resulting in increased “availability” to the body .
Feals Focus Melts are a caffeine-free way to boost your focus when you need it most. Powered by Tetracitrene™, a proprietary compound crafted from citrus peels, these dissolvable tablets work in a matter of minutes without the crash, anxiety, or sleeplessness that come with caffeine or other traditional stimulants.
BodyBio PC is a health optimization tool that supports cellular health, mental focus, total body support and brain function. It is for everyone because everyone is made up of cells (70 trillion of them!). Give your cells the nutrients they need with BodyBio PC and they’ll reward you with health and vitality. Reverse aging at the cellular level with BodyBio PC.
HANAH ONE is a unique blend of 30 herbs (including ashwagandha and turmeric), adaptogens and nootropics combined in honey, ghee and sesame oil. All ingredients are wild-harvested by hand in their natural environment to ensure quality and efficacy. HANAH ONE provides a sustainable, slow burn of energy with effects that last and build over time.
Methylation, a vital process affecting gene expression, depends on sufficient bioavailable folate and B12 levels. The combination of Active B12 with L-5-MTHF is carefully designed to provide these essential nutrients as cofactors for enzymes in certain pathways, emphasizing the importance of active folate and B12 forms.
Beta Alanine is a natural amino acid found in meat and fish that offers numerous health benefits. It supports the nervous system, brain health, lean muscle growth, and endurance, reduces fatigue, speeds recovery, and helps with weight management due to its fat-blocking properties.
Nadovim is a unique non-prescription supplement that combines NAD+ with brain-friendly natural ingredients to enhance cognitive function and support long-term brain health. It replenishes and preplenishes essential brain metabolites and nutrients for optimal performance.
NeuroMaster is a brain function supplement now on the market from the Platinum Line that enhances attention and focus, as well as neuron creation. It includes coffee fruit extract, which boosts BDNF (brain-derived neurotropic factor) in order to support memory and learning functions.
1. Suliman, N. A., Taib, C. A., Moklas, M. a. M., Adenan, M. I., Baharuldin, M. T. H., & Basir, R. (2016). Establishing Natural Nootropics: Recent Molecular Enhancement Influenced by Natural Nootropic. Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2016, 1–12. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5021479/
2. Kubala, J., Richter, A. (2020). The 10 Best Herbs to Boost Energy and Focus. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/herbs-for-energy
3. Kennedy, D. N., Dodd, F., Robertson, B., Okello, E. J., Reay, J. L., Scholey, A., & Haskell, C. F. (2011). Monoterpenoid extract of sage (Salvia lavandulaefolia) with cholinesterase inhibiting properties improves cognitive performance and mood in healthy adults. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 25(8), 1088–1100. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20937617/
4. Fontani, G., Corradeschi, F., Felici, A., Alfatti, F., Migliorini, S., & Lodi, L. (2005). Cognitive and physiological effects of Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation in healthy subjects. European Journal of Clinical Investigation, 35(11), 691–699. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16269019/
5. Dighriri, I., Alsubaie, A. M., Hakami, F. H., Hamithi, D. M., Alshekh, M. M., Khobrani, F. A., Dalak, F. E., Hakami, A. A., Alsueaadi, E. H., Alsaawi, L. S., Alshammari, S. F., Alqahtani, A. S., Alawi, I. A., Aljuaid, A. A., & Tawhari, M. Q. (2022). Effects of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids on Brain Functions: A Systematic Review. Cureus. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.30091
6. Hill, A, Boyle, K. (2022). 12 Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba (Plus Side Effects & Dosage). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ginkgo-biloba-benefits
7. DiPasquale, R. Effect of Ashwagandha on Tests of Cognitive and Psychomotor Performance. (2014). Natural Medicine Journal. https://www.naturalmedicinejournal.com/journal/effect-ashwagandha-tests-cognitive-and-psychomotor-performance
Discover science-backed approaches to boost brain health and maximize cognitive function.
Mindfulness is a hot topic, with its benefits linked to supporting mental health, lowering stress, […]
Most of us don’t really think about the relationship between our brain and our gut. […]
These days, most of us know the benefits of exercise for both our body and […]
Learn about the newest breakthroughs and techniques for optimizing brain function.
Broaden your understanding of brain science by tracking the latest findings from these accomplished specialists.
Dr. Joe Dispenza is a renowned chiropractor, author, TED talk speaker, educator, researcher, corporate consultant, and podcast guest best known for his ground-breaking work in neuroplasticity. His biohacking expertise explores the mind-body connection and the implementation of mental practices to reshape thought patterns, optimize health, and promote healing.
As a faculty member at prominent holistic and integrative medicine institutions in the United States, Dr. Dispenza has conducted extensive research on the impact of meditation on brain function, the correlation between emotions and heart/brain health, and the influence of emotions on immune response.
He is the founder of Encephalon, Inc which is linked to his website where he shares his teachings through online courses, guided meditations, and events. Dr. Dispenza has built a community of people looking to transform their lives and connects with his audience through Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. He has also been featured in various magazines, including Rolling Stone Magazine.
Max Lugavere is a TV personality, journalist, and biohacking enthusiast who specializes in brain health, nutrition, and longevity. He advocates for a low-carbohydrate diet and has authored books on nutrition, wellness, and cognitive function.
Max’s TV career started as a co-host on the independent network Current TV. He has since frequently appeared on shows like the Rachael Ray Show and The Doctors and has been featured in prominent media outlets such as The Today Show, NBC Nightly News, Fox News, and The New York Times. He has shared his knowledge on nutrition and health performance at TEDx talks, the New York Academy of Sciences, and the Biohacker Summit.
Max is also the CEO and partner of Wilder Capital, a health and wellness company that features high-quality and ethically made products. He hosts “The Genius Life” podcast and is a guest on many others while maintaining a strong presence on his website, Youtube, and Instagram.
Unveiling the power of your brain for a longer life filled with mental clarity and fulfillment.
There are several supplements that can enhance focus and concentration. Top of the list is Lion’s Mane mushroom, which has been shown to support cognitive function and promote nerve growth factors in the brain. Another powerful supplement is Alpha-GPC, a choline compound that can boost acetylcholine levels, a neurotransmitter vital for memory and focus. Additionally, adaptogens like Rhodiola rosea and Bacopa monnieri can reduce stress and improve mental clarity.
Hydration plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal cognitive function. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, brain fog, and decreased focus. It’s important to drink enough water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Additionally, certain drinks can have a positive impact on focus. For example, green tea contains theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation without causing drowsiness, thereby improving focus and attention.
Mindfulness meditation is a powerful practice for enhancing focus. By bringing attention to the present moment and observing thoughts without judgment, you can train your brain to stay focused on the task at hand. One technique is focused attention meditation, where you concentrate on a single object, such as your breath or a specific sound. This practice strengthens your ability to sustain focus and resist distractions.
Absolutely! Sleep is vital for optimal cognitive function and focus. By optimizing your sleep environment and practicing good sleep hygiene, you can improve the quality and duration of your sleep. Some biohacks for better sleep include maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, avoiding electronic devices before bed, and creating a dark and quiet sleep environment. When you prioritize sleep, you’ll notice significant improvements in your ability to concentrate and perform tasks.
Exercise has numerous benefits for the brain, including enhanced focus and cognitive performance. When you engage in physical activity, blood flow to the brain increases, delivering oxygen and nutrients that support optimal brain function. Exercise also stimulates the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and endorphins, which can boost mood and enhance focus. Incorporating regular aerobic exercise, strength training, or even short bursts of high-intensity interval training can all have positive effects on your ability to concentrate.
Nutrition plays a significant role in brain function and focus. Consuming a well-balanced diet that includes nutrient-dense foods is crucial. Healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish and walnuts, support brain health and improve focus. Antioxidant-rich foods like blueberries and dark chocolate can also enhance cognitive function. Additionally, avoiding excessive sugar and processed foods can help prevent energy crashes and maintain stable focus throughout the day.
Yes, certain breathing exercises can improve focus and attention. One effective technique is box breathing, where you inhale deeply for a count of four, hold the breath for a count of four, exhale for a count of four, and hold the breath again for a count of four. This rhythmic breathing pattern helps calm the mind, reduce stress, and increase mental clarity. Another technique is alternate nostril breathing, which involves alternating breaths through each nostril, promoting balance and focus.
Yes, there are various technological tools that can enhance focus and productivity. For example, using noise-canceling headphones or ambient noise apps can create a distraction-free environment. Time management apps and Pomodoro timers can help structure work periods and breaks, optimizing productivity. Additionally, brain-training apps or neurofeedback devices can improve cognitive function and focus by providing targeted mental exercises and real-time feedback.
Cultivating gratitude has numerous benefits, including improved focus and mental well-being. When you consciously practice gratitude, you shift your attention away from negative thoughts and redirect it towards positive aspects of your life. This positive mindset can reduce stress and enhance focus by fostering a sense of contentment and satisfaction. Regular gratitude practices like keeping a gratitude journal or expressing gratitude to others can positively impact your ability to concentrate and stay present.
Absolutely! Taking regular breaks throughout the day is crucial for maintaining focus and productivity. Our brains have a limited capacity to sustain attention, and extended periods of continuous work can lead to mental fatigue and decreased focus. Incorporating short breaks, ideally every 60-90 minutes, allows your brain to rest and recharge. During these breaks, engage in activities that relax and refresh your mind, such as going for a short walk, stretching, or practicing mindfulness. By incorporating regular breaks, you can optimize your focus and overall productivity.
Enhance your cognitive abilities and unlock laser-like focus with these biohacking strategies.
Discover podcasts, YouTube channels, websites, apps, and more to enhance your knowledge and empower your biohacking journey.
Deep Work, a book by Cal Newport, explores the concept of deep work and its significance in a distracted and fast-paced world.
Newport argues that deep work, which refers to focused, undistracted, and cognitively demanding work, is crucial for productivity, creativity, and professional success. He presents strategies to cultivate deep work by minimizing distractions, developing focused routines, and embracing deliberate practice. Newport emphasizes the need to prioritize deep work over shallow work, such as email or social media, to achieve meaningful and impactful outcomes.
By adopting the principles and practices of deep work, individuals can enhance their ability to concentrate, produce high-quality work, and ultimately excel in their chosen fields.
The Peak Brain Institute is a brain training center that assists individuals in improving cognitive abilities and achieving optimal performance. Their training methods involve various techniques such as Quantitative EEG assessments, neurofeedback training, heart rate variability biofeedback, and mindfulness meditation.
Led by Dr. Andrew Hill and a team of EEG technicians and mindfulness facilitators, the institute serves as personal brain coaches. They provide alternative interventions for a range of cognitive challenges including focus, attention, creativity, mood, sleep, migraines, hyperactivity, and more.
Training options are available at branch locations, through a concierge program, or remotely with supervised neurofeedback. The institute offers free initial phone consultations to discuss individual brain performance goals.