Many of us go through life in a state of constant distraction and stress, unable to break free from the pressure that modern living places on our mental health. Whether it’s struggling with decision fatigue, anxiety, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the constant stream of information, finding calm seems harder than ever. That’s where meditation comes in; it can be a powerful tool to rewire your brain and help you manage these challenges in a healthier way. In this episode, I sit down with Ariel Garten, a neuroscientist, psychotherapist, and the founder of Muse, a brain-sensing headband that makes meditation more accessible by providing real-time feedback on brain activity. Muse allows users to see how their mind responds during meditation, giving them the tools to understand whether they’re truly focused or letting distractions take over. This feedback helps meditators stay present and progressively refine their practice, which can be especially valuable for beginners or anyone struggling to stay consistent with meditation. Garten shares fascinating insights into how meditation goes beyond just relaxation, explaining its role in actually reshaping how our brain processes stress. She dives into how regular practice can reduce reactivity to stressful stimuli — those automatic, emotional responses that lead to frustration or anger — by strengthening parts of the brain responsible for emotional regulation. In other words, meditation isn’t about suppressing emotions, but about being more aware of them and having the space to choose a better response. One of the most interesting points we discuss is how even short, daily meditation sessions can have a profound impact on overall mental well-being. It doesn’t require hours of practice to see results. According to studies, just a few minutes of mindfulness each day can improve focus, reduce anxiety, and increase emotional awareness. Garten highlights how building this habit creates a ripple effect, where emotional control leads to better decision-making, healthier relationships, and a greater sense of overall calm. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or struggled to maintain a sense of balance in a world filled with distractions, this episode offers valuable tools to help you regain control and become more present in your daily life. Whether you’re a seasoned meditator or just starting out, Garten’s practical advice and the innovative Muse technology can help you take the first step toward mental clarity and emotional stability. In this episode: 00:00 - Intro 02:22 - The evolution of human emotional intelligence 06:00 - Modern innovations and their impact on mental health 08:47 - Decision fatigue and emotional overwhelm 11:32 - The importance of modeling behavior for kids 14:23 - Observing urges through meditation 16:24 - What is meditation 21:42 - Meditation biggest challenge 23:11 - WATCH THIS! 28:16 - Using Muse for meditation and sleep improvement 30:22 - Does biofeedback distract or help during meditation? 32:07 - How Muse helps beginners and experienced meditators 33:03 - Simple steps to start meditating today 37:35 - Outro and final thoughts on Muse and meditation 40:05 - Teaser for next episode: testosterone and handling difficult tasks Learn more: Try the Muse meditation headband at https://michaelkummer.com/go/muse – use code MKUMMER for 15% off Muse Headband Review: Improve Your Meditation: https://youtu.be/MrFpTuAG4I8 Muse Headband Review: Boost Your Meditation & Sleep: https://youtu.be/VynTu7nZw2A How the Muse Headband Tracks Your Brain for Better Meditation: https://michaelkummer.com/health/muse-headband-review/ Thank you to this episode’s sponsor, Peluva! Peluva makes minimalist shoes to support optimal foot, back and joint health. I started wearing Peluvas several months ago, and I haven’t worn regular shoes since. I encourage you to consider trading your sneakers or training shoes for a pair of Peluvas, and then watch the health of your feet and lower back improve while reducing your risk of injury. To learn more about why I love Peluva barefoot shoes, check out my in-depth review and use code KUMMER to get 15% off your first pair. About Ariel Garten - Co-Founder of Muse! As a neuroscientist and former psychotherapist, Ariel Garten witnessed firsthand the struggles many face with mental health and the search for effective, accessible solutions. Inspired to make a real difference, she channeled her expertise into co-founding Muse, a healthtech startup aimed at revolutionizing brain health through technology. Ariel's journey from the lab to leadership illustrates her unwavering dedication to innovation and wellness. Email: ariel@choosemuse.com Find me on social media for more health and wellness content: Website: https://michaelkummer.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primalshiftpodcast/ Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/michaelkummer/ Pinterest: https:...
