There are ways we can manipulate our internal and external environment to help us enter into a Theta brainwave state more often, such as seeking solitude, changing scenery, and releasing tension from the body. This week we’re going to dive into one of the most powerful hacks to enter into a state of creativity: moving meditation

Theta brainwaves are one of the slowest brainwave states, measuring at 4 - 7 cycles per second (Hz). In this state our creativity is flowing. During theta wave activity, several regions of our brain activate at the same time and connect to each other. This is how we have leaps of insight, come up with new solutions to old problems, and discover links we didn’t see before. A classic example is being on autopilot in the shower, going through the motions without thought, and having a new, seemingly random, idea pop into your mind.

Last week we introduced Alpha brainwave states. Alpha brainwaves measure at 8 - 15 cycles per second (Hz), and tend to come about during acts of “metacognition” - or thinking about how you think. This state of reflection is crucial for learning, adapting, strategizing, and performing at the highest possible level. In order to enter into alpha brainwaves and strategic thinking, you need to relax your body while keeping your mind engaged so you can explore the things you want to achieve. One thing that can get in the way of this? Stress.

Over the past couple of weeks we’ve discussed the importance of entering into Beta brainwaves in order to enter into a state of deep focus and sustained concentration. Learning how to unlock beta brainwaves and enter into focused execution allows us to accomplish more, decrease stress, and direct our attention towards what is important.

​​Last week we introduced beta brainwaves, the brainwaves that occur when we are in a state of deep focus and sustained concentration. Learning how to unlock beta brainwaves and enter into focused execution allows us to accomplish more, decrease stress, and direct our attention towards what is important. However, the periods in between these deep focus states are just as important.

The five human brainwave states are Beta, Alpha, Theta, Delta, and Gamma. By understanding the different properties of brainwaves and the situations in which they arise, we can learn to trigger these performance states to enter into them at the appropriate time. This week we’re going to dive into the first state: Beta brainwaves.

Conventional wisdom has always said that achieving more means pushing harder. That's not true. Our brains aren't built to be in constant go mode. Sure there are times when driving hard is key. But those moments can't happen without rest and relaxation. And knowing how and when to step back will enable you to achieve peak performance when a big moment comes along.

As we wrap up our Performance Optimized Series, we thought we’d dedicate this week to recapping all that we’ve learned over the past few months.

Often when people think of carbs they think of pizza, baked goods, and processed foods. But there are many sources of carbohydrates that are healthy and important for disease prevention and optimal performance. Today we’re going to discuss the third and final macronutrient, and how we can incorporate healthy sources of carbohydrates into our diet every day.

One of the most common pieces of feedback we get is that people love Q&A sessions. So this week we thought we’d compile all of the FAQs that we’ve received from our community over the past year - through emails, live events, and coaching sessions. Hopefully you find this information helpful and that there are some key takeaways that you can apply to your daily routine. Of course if you have any questions that we missed don't hesitate to reach out!

Last week we discussed flow, a state in which we are completely immersed in the task at hand. We become so engrossed in the activity we’re doing that the world seems to fade away. Athletes often refer to this state as being “in the zone”, however anyone can enter into this state - whether it be at work, while pursuing a passion, or having an engaging conversation with someone.

Flow is often described as a peak state of consciousness. It was first identified by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, who described it as a highly focused state conducive to peak performance and productivity. During flow, people are completely immersed in the task at hand and are entirely in the present (no sense of past or future). People who experience flow say they feel a sense of timelessness, total body awareness, complete focus, and a sense of ease.

Post-workout nutrition is almost as important as the workout itself. Just like sleep, good nutrition is essential for recovery. Prioritizing post-workout nutrition will help you take advantage of the work you just did, help you feel good for the rest of the day, and help you recover faster for your next workout!

As mindfulness has been shown to improve focus, decrease physiological and psychological measures of stress, and reduce rumination, it’s no wonder that athletes are starting to incorporate mindfulness practices into their training!

I’m sure you’ve noticed on days you don't get a good sleep, you struggle to concentrate, are unable to recall facts, and find it difficult to solve problems. It’s also well established that students’ academic performance is correlated with sleep quantity and quality. But what exactly is happening at night that helps us think clearly the next day?