More Than Just Physical Health
True health isn’t just physical — it starts with your brain. “Cognitive fitness is a rapidly growing area of research,” said Dr. Jean-Michel Fournier, CEO of Muse, a health-tech company that specializes in brain-training solutions. Muse is best known for its meditation headbands, but the launch of Athena marks the brand’s expansion into a more holistic approach to brain wellness.
The Rise of Brain Wellness
Brain wellness has become increasingly popular in recent years, driven by research suggesting that early interventions like lifestyle changes can help slow mental decline. “We’re seeing a growing interest in brain longevity, and Athena is tapping directly into that space,” said Dr. Rebecca Robillard, Ph.D., a sleep researcher with the Canadian Sleep Research Consortium.
What is Muse S Athena?
Muse S Athena is a brain-training headband that combines EEG and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to measure brain activity and oxygen levels. These metrics are used to create a real-time feedback loop, providing insights into focus, relaxation, and engagement. Muse’s AI-powered system helps personalize training over time to build mental stamina.
- EEG tracks brainwave activity and helps measure focus, relaxation, and engagement
- fNIRS measures oxygen levels in the prefrontal cortex, giving an idea of brain fueling during mental effort
- The two metrics create a real-time feedback loop, providing personalized training
Putting it to the Test
I had the chance to test the Muse S Athena, including its new owl flight challenge. The setup was simple and straightforward: I put the headband on, adjusted the sensors, and started the 10-minute session. The idea behind the owl flight challenge is to help the owl fly by controlling its speed with focus. The more focused you are, the higher and faster the owl flies.
“Focus isn’t about strain; it’s more about controlled mental effort.”
— Dr. Jean-Michel Fournier, CEO of Muse
| Focus Level | Brain Activity | Oxygen Levels |
|---|---|---|
| High | Increased brain activity | Higher oxygen levels |
| Medium | Stable brain activity | Average oxygen levels |
| Low | Decreased brain activity | Lower oxygen levels |
The Results
After the session, I learned that focus isn’t just about strain; it’s about controlled mental effort. Athena picks up on subtle shifts in brain activity and blood oxygenation, detecting when you’re pushing too hard or your mind starts drifting. I scored 75 on mental strength, and Muse says that consistent training can help build cognitive endurance over time, much like strengthening other body muscles. Example:
* I felt like I was able to zoom out of everything else and was present solely focused on the game. * I’m not sure if I felt long-lasting results throughout the day, but I’m excited to see how consistent use makes a difference in the long run.
Mental Wellness Beyond Focus
The Muse S Athena headband can be used beyond meditation and focus games. Muse says that its neurofeedback system can:
- Boost workplace performance by optimizing focus
- Improve sleep with more precise brain oxygenation and SpO2 (arterial oxygen saturation) monitoring
- Support long-term brain health by slowing cognitive decline
The Verdict
The Muse S Athena headband is a premium device that offers real-time neurofeedback and personalized training. While it may be expensive, it’s a tool that can provide tangible benefits for those serious about cognitive health. However, it may not be worth the investment for casual users or those looking to improve mindfulness.
Who Should Try It?
Mindfulness and meditation enthusiasts, peak performance seekers, and those wanting to conserve long-term brain health may find the Muse S Athena headband a valuable tool. However, casual users or those looking to improve sleep tracking may want to explore other options.
The Future of Brain Fitness
Brain fitness is gaining momentum, and Muse is pushing the needle forward. With its advanced neurofeedback system and personalized training, the Muse S Athena headband is a step towards unlocking the power of brain fitness. I’ll continue to test and evaluate the device to see if it lives up to its promise. Stay tuned for further updates!
