INSIGHTS

ACTIONABLE SCIENCE FROM Dr. WELLS’ NEWSLETTER

 
Greg Wells PhD Greg Wells PhD

Exercises that Create Theta Brainwaves

Certain types of physical activity can shift our brainwaves into a state associated with calm and creativity, known as theta brainwaves. Understanding the relationship between movement and brainwave activity can help us build resilience to stress and enhance mental well-being.

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Greg Wells PhD Greg Wells PhD

Move to Extend Your Lifespan and Health Span: The Power of Mitoplasticity

Movement is essential not only for daily wellness but also for extending both our lifespan (the years we live) and health span (the years we live in good health). One of the most profound ways that movement supports long-term health is by enhancing mitochondrial function through a process called mitoplasticity.

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Greg Wells PhD Greg Wells PhD

Anti-Inflammatory Nutrition: Fueling Your Health

Anti-inflammatory nutrition has gained traction for its ability to combat chronic diseases, enhance recovery, and support peak physical and mental performance. Central to this approach is the regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), highly reactive molecules that are produced naturally in our bodies. When managed properly, ROS contribute to cellular adaptation and defense, but in excess, they lead to oxidative stress, which is a significant driver of inflammation. By adopting an anti-inflammatory diet rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients, we can optimize ROS levels, protect cellular health, and promote overall wellness.

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Psyching Up for Big Performance Events

Performing at your best requires the right mental and physical balance—enough energy to power through the task, yet calm enough to avoid anxiety and tension. This balance is often referred to as the “ideal performance state” (IPS), which allows for peak productivity, focus, and flow.

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The Importance of Darkness in a Digital Age

From the time we wake up until we go to bed, most of us are exposed to bright, blue-light-emitting devices. However, this modern-day convenience comes with a significant downside: prolonged light exposure disrupts our natural rhythms and negatively impacts our health. Allowing for darkness and establishing routines that honor our biological need for nighttime can greatly improve our health and well-being.

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Cold Exposure for Healthy High Performance: Pump the Parasympathetic Nervous System Brakes

In recent years, cold exposure has gained popularity as a powerful wellness practice with benefits that extend far beyond boosting resilience. Regular exposure to cold, whether through cold showers, ice baths, or winter swims, offers an impressive range of health benefits. Key to its positive effects is the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation, mental clarity, and overall well-being. This article delves into the science behind cold exposure and its transformative effects on the body and mind.

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Greg Wells PhD Greg Wells PhD

Heat for Health and Wellness: The Science of Heat Shock Protein

From ancient practices to modern saunas, cultures worldwide have long recognized the health benefits of heat exposure. Recent science sheds light on why this practice is so beneficial: mild heat stress activates a family of cellular protectors known as heat shock proteins (HSPs), which play an essential role in cellular repair, resilience, and energy production. By embracing controlled heat exposure, like sauna sessions or hot baths, we can tap into these benefits to improve our health and longevity.

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Greg Wells PhD Greg Wells PhD

How a Little Stress Goes a Long Way [Hormesis]

For healthy peak performance, the idea of hormesis—where a little bit of stress benefits the body and brain—is a key concept. Hormesis occurs when small amounts of stress stimulate the body to grow stronger and adapt. This principle, sometimes called “mitohormesis” when applied to cellular health, highlights the importance of balance: a little stress can be beneficial, but too much can lead to burnout and fatigue.

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The Human Energy Crisis: 5 Tactics to Help Recharge

Many of us feel overwhelmed, struggling to keep up with daily demands. This phenomenon, often termed the "human energy crisis," is driven by chronic stress, poor sleep, sedentary lifestyles, and unrelenting digital connectivity. Understanding the root of this crisis and how our cellular energy systems work can help us break free from fatigue and regain our energy.

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Create Magic Moments

In a world where routines often dominate our lives, it’s easy to overlook the importance of extraordinary moments — those magical experiences that stay with us forever. Whether it’s watching a sunset, celebrating a loved one’s success, or experiencing awe in nature, these moments not only bring joy but also contribute significantly to our mental and physical well-being. This article explores the power of creating and savoring magic moments and provides tips for integrating them into daily life for enhanced health and happiness.

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The Role of Play in Healthy High Performance

In a world that prioritizes productivity, the concept of “play” often seems secondary, especially for adults. Yet, play is a vital component of well-being, offering significant mental, emotional, and physical health benefits. By embracing playful activities, we not only experience joy but also enhance our resilience, reduce stress, and cultivate social bonds. This article explores why play is crucial for overall health and well-being and how incorporating more play into daily life can lead to a balanced, healthier lifestyle.

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Create a Soundtrack for Your Life to Facilitate Peak Performance

Music isn’t just background noise — it’s a powerful tool that can shape your mood, enhance focus, and even boost physical performance. Crafting intentional playlists can support different aspects of your day, from workouts to moments of deep focus, helping you reach peak performance in both mind and body. This article explores how to harness the transformative effects of music and create a life soundtrack that enhances your performance and well-being.

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Craft Your Ikigai through Meaning and Purpose

In our fast-paced world, finding purpose and meaning can sometimes feel elusive. Yet, having a clear sense of purpose — or ikigai, as it’s called in Japanese culture — can transform your life, bringing fulfillment, resilience, and joy. Ikigai, combining the words for “life” (iki) and “worth” or “value” (gai), refers to what makes life worth living. This article explores practical ways to discover your ikigai, helping you create a life rich in meaning and purpose.

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Greg Wells PhD Greg Wells PhD

Have Fun: The Key to Health and Well-Being

In today’s productivity-driven world, taking time to have fun can feel like a guilty pleasure or an afterthought. However, recent research and expert perspectives highlight that having fun is essential for a balanced, healthy life. Fun isn’t just about amusement; it’s a cornerstone of mental and physical well-being, helping us relieve stress, strengthen social bonds, and boost creativity. This article explores why having fun is more important than you might think and offers ways to integrate play into your daily life.

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Greg Wells PhD Greg Wells PhD

The Focus Superpower: Unplug and Disconnect

In today’s hyperconnected world, being “always on” has become the norm. We are constantly within arm’s reach of our devices, often feeling the urge to check notifications, respond to messages, and scroll through social media. However, this perpetual connectivity can lead to stress, distraction, and burnout, making it essential to carve out mindful moments and embrace intentional disconnection. By unplugging and practicing mindfulness, we can foster deeper focus, mental clarity, and overall well-being.

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