The Resilient Mind How to Train Your Brain Like a Monk, using Neuroscience - Ariel Garten
Dec 9, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Ariel Garten, a neuroscientist and founder of InteraXon, dives into the science of meditation and the innovative Muse brain-sensing headband. She explains how Muse tracks brain activity with EEG sensors, helping to manage anxiety and improve focus. Garten discusses the correlation between brain states and emotions, shares insights on the importance of sleep and nutrition for mental resilience, and highlights how technology can revolutionize mental health practices. Plus, she offers practical tips for busy individuals to start meditating even in a hectic life.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
From Lab EEG To Consumer Headband
- Ariel Garten began developing Muse roughly 25 years ago from lab EEG work with Steve Mann.
- She and co-founders moved from clinical EEG to a consumer wearable that tracks and trains the brain.
Use Real-Time Neurofeedback
- Use EEG-based neurofeedback to observe when your mind is focused or wandering during meditation.
- Return attention to the breath when feedback indicates your mind has wandered.
Brainwaves Map Emotional States
- Different brain states show characteristic brainwave signatures like high beta for anxiety and high alpha for calm.
- Shifting dominant brainwave patterns corresponds to shifts in attention, sleep, and emotion.