Latest news with #neuroscientists
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
NeuroEnergizer 2025 Update Launches: Binaural Beats Program Emerges as Leading Non-Stimulant Focus Solution
As demand for screen-free cognitive tools rises, NeuroEnergizer™ positions it's portable, frequency-based audio experience at the intersection of digital wellness, attention enhancement, and lifestyle-driven brainwave support Austin, June 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE NeuroEnergizer, the pioneering binaural beats program for lifestyle-focused cognitive support, has unveiled its highly anticipated 2025 digital wellness update. This update, a result of extensive research and user feedback from our team of experienced neuroscientists and wellness experts, positions NeuroEnergizer™ at the forefront of portable focus enhancement technologies. It introduces enhanced stereo alignment, increased sound layer depth, and variable duration tracks to support both short bursts and extended productivity sessions. The company's latest release is designed for consumers seeking screen-free, non-stimulant tools to promote mental clarity and attention alignment in their daily lives. This update arrives as consumer search trends reflect a surge in interest around non-pharmacological cognitive support tools, with terms like "binaural beats for focus," "brainwave entrainment for study," and "natural alternatives to ADHD supplements" dominating wellness discourse. NeuroEnergizer now steps forward with a fully digital, headphone-ready experience designed for the modern multitasker, remote worker, and mindful learner. What You'll Learn in This Release: What makes NeuroEnergizer™ the leading sound-based cognitive focus tool in 2025 Why binaural beats are trending as top natural productivity boosters How digital wellness is reshaping non-clinical mental performance support Where NeuroEnergizer™ fits into the emerging market of brainwave audio programs What consumers are saying about screen-free focus enhancement How sound frequency programs are outperforming traditional nootropics in user engagement Why remote workers and digital minimalists are driving the popularity of audio-first cognitive tools The Modern Attention Dilemma In an era where digital overload dominates the workday and mental distractions interrupt personal productivity, many individuals are seeking new tools to reclaim focus without relying on synthetic stimulants or screen-heavy solutions. This backdrop has given rise to a surge in digital wellness solutions that blend scientific inquiry with minimalist design—and among the most compelling are audio-based experiences, such as NeuroEnergizer™. The latest version of the NeuroEnergizer program provides a distraction-free path to clarity by utilizing structured auditory experiences that align with naturally occurring brainwave states. For individuals working remotely, studying for exams, or simply seeking relief from overstimulation, the appeal is clear: a straightforward, portable, and intuitive system to enhance concentration without chemical or visual disruption. Digital Wellness Meets Auditory Innovation As screen fatigue and overstimulation become modern-day epidemics, the demand for audio-first solutions has exploded. NeuroEnergizer's 2025 release features a curated collection of binaural beat soundtracks engineered for passive use—whether users are working, studying, or winding down for sleep. With no apps to download, no subscriptions to manage, and no stimulants to ingest, the program offers flexibility for those seeking self-directed focus routines. Compatible with all standard stereo headphones, the binaural beat tracks operate on structured frequency principles designed to align with natural brainwave states such as alpha (relaxed focus), beta (active thinking), and theta (deep relaxation). This solution is part of a growing class of non-visual, low-intervention cognitive aids that require minimal effort to adopt and utilize. By combining ease of access with a user-friendly design, NeuroEnergizer™ taps into the momentum behind minimalist wellness tools—resources that support without overwhelming. It meets the needs of users navigating attention fragmentation in environments filled with digital clutter, providing a comfortable and straightforward experience. SEO Trend Surge: Binaural Beats, ADHD Alternatives & Study Boosters Search engines are now flooded with user interest around: "Binaural beats study playlist" "Sound frequency focus hack" "Natural attention support without meds" "Audio-based ADHD alternatives" "Digital brainwave entrainment program" These search patterns reflect a strong desire for auditory tools that don't require ingestibles, complicated wearables, or therapeutic enrollment. Instead, users are seeking natural sensory alignment—techniques that stimulate the brain without triggering screen fatigue, physiological stress, or dependency concerns. NeuroEnergizer™ directly aligns with this surge. As public curiosity grows around auditory modulation and its role in mental energy, programs like this are gaining traction for their simplicity, portability, and low-friction adoption. Several popular influencers have incorporated binaural beats into their morning productivity routines, and YouTube search data indicates a notable increase in demand for "binaural beats for energy" and "focus-enhancing background music." These digital patterns suggest a robust market fit for portable programs like NeuroEnergizer™, which package precision soundscapes into lifestyle-friendly formats. Why NeuroEnergizer™ Matters in 2025 NeuroEnergizer™ is neither a supplement, a stimulant, nor a clinical intervention. It's a sound-based experience for those seeking: Cognitive calm without chemicals Focus without blue light Productivity without pressure Users receive a digital package including: High-quality binaural audio sessions A revised 2025 Quick Start listening guide Bonus tracks for evening relaxation and restorative sleep alignment The format is minimalist by design: no proprietary app, no recurring costs, and no algorithmic tracking. Listeners maintain full autonomy, applying the program based on their personal needs—a growing priority among wellness-aware consumers, empowering them to take control of their wellness journey and make decisions that best suit their lifestyle. Whether used during deep work blocks, pre-meeting grounding, or bedtime decompression, the 2025 NeuroEnergizer™ library provides brainwave synchronization for all central energy states without requiring a lifestyle overhaul. Public Reception & Market Signals Commentary across forums, wellness subreddits, and lifestyle blogs reveals a notable increase in interest in non-pharmaceutical attention aids. Consumers are especially drawn to: Passive-use digital wellness tools Auditory support without clinical gatekeeping Self-experimentation in focus optimization NeuroEnergizer™ consistently appears in side-by-side comparisons with mindfulness apps, focus timers, and guided meditations—yet it differentiates by being purely audio-driven, self-paced, and non-visual. In testimonials and informal reviews, users have cited improved "flow state" entry, easier transition between tasks, and lower levels of sensory overload while working. While results vary, the common thread is empowerment—users choosing tools that support their routines rather than disrupt them. Reddit discussions point to binaural beats as an "easy win" for people trying to detox from caffeine or Adderall dependencies. Others view it as a "reset button" during burnout or screen exhaustion. The rise in long-form reviews and playlist sharing across platforms signals a cultural shift toward individualized, non-invasive enhancement tools. Technology Spotlight: How Binaural Beats Work NeuroEnergizer™ is built around binaural beats technology, a method of auditory stimulation where two tones of slightly different frequencies are played in each ear. The brain interprets the difference between the two frequencies as a rhythmic beat. This beat, perceived internally, is associated with changes in brainwave activity, potentially corresponding to relaxed, focused, or sleep-supportive mental states. In simpler terms, it's like a gentle massage for your brain, helping it relax, focus, or wind down, depending on your needs. Though clinical consensus on specific outcomes remains under exploration, many users report subjective improvements in: Mental clarity Focus duration Mood regulation The transition between cognitive tasks NeuroEnergizer™ enhances this base technology with carefully calibrated frequencies sequenced in a curated format to match different user goals—morning energy, afternoon concentration, or evening wind-down. The 2025 version introduces enhanced stereo alignment, increased sound layer depth, and variable duration tracks to support both short bursts and extended productivity sessions. In Context: The Rise of Sound-Enabled Wellness Tools From Spotify playlists titled "brain boost" to YouTube channels dedicated to studying beats, the cultural interest in sound as a productivity ally is well established. However, few platforms provide curated experiences with purpose-built frequency design. NeuroEnergizer™ fills this gap by offering not just background audio but intentional sound environments backed by principles of brainwave entrainment. Its non-visual nature also makes it attractive to those battling overstimulation, digital burnout, or visual screen fatigue. In a world where most wellness apps push notifications and track behavior, NeuroEnergizer™ offers a frictionless alternative: start the track, put on your headphones, and go. Use Cases: Real-World Listening Scenarios NeuroEnergizer™ is designed for flexible integration into nearly any routine. From early morning startup rituals to mid-day focus blocks and pre-sleep decompression, users are embedding these sound sessions into: Remote Workflows: Professionals working from home use NeuroEnergizer™ to maintain attention during back-to-back meetings or project planning. Academic Study Cycles: Students, especially those studying for high-stakes exams, incorporate binaural sessions during note review and essay writing. Creative Projects: Writers, designers, and content creators use tracks to spark ideation and minimize cognitive distractions. Evening Wind-Downs: Listeners struggling with overstimulation or screen exposure unwind with theta-frequency tracks before bed. Focus Recovery: Neurodivergent users and individuals with attention challenges have reported using the tool to re-center after distractions or energy crashes. By offering a passive, customizable experience, NeuroEnergizer™ supports a wide demographic—from teenagers in academic settings to adults in creative or corporate roles—without requiring a lifestyle change or a rigid commitment. Availability The full NeuroEnergizer™ program is available now at:Includes: Immediate digital download Updated 2025 audio library Quick start listening guide Relaxation and sleep-focused bonus content Compatible with: All standard stereo headphones Mobile, desktop, or tablet audio systems Personal listening schedules (daily use optional) Product Use Transparency NeuroEnergizer™ is an informational, wellness-aligned product and should not be used as a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. The audio programs are offered as tools for general attentiveness, relaxation, and sensory calm—no outcomes are promised, and no prescriptions are required. The product is not intended to treat or cure any disease and should not be used as a substitute for professional guidance when needed. Disclaimer NeuroEnergizer™ is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or condition. This program is offered for general educational and lifestyle enhancement purposes. Individual experiences may vary. Always consult a qualified professional before making wellness-related changes. Frequently Asked Questions Do binaural beats actually work for focus? While individual experiences vary, many users report increased focus, fewer distractions, and improved flow when listening to properly tuned binaural beats. NeuroEnergizer™ sequences frequencies based on common brainwave patterns associated with mental alertness. Is this program safe for daily use? Yes. NeuroEnergizer™ is designed as a passive wellness support tool. There are no known adverse effects from daily listening. Users are encouraged to follow the quick start guide for optimal session length and timing. What headphones are best for binaural beats? Any standard stereo headphones will work. Over-ear models may provide a more immersive experience, but earbuds are perfectly acceptable for on-the-go use. Can NeuroEnergizer™ replace ADHD medication or supplements? No. This program is not a substitute for medical care. It is intended as a complementary tool for those seeking non-pharmaceutical support strategies. Always consult a healthcare professional before making changes to a treatment plan. Can I use this with other wellness apps? Absolutely. Many users integrate NeuroEnergizer™ with mindfulness apps, journaling routines, or Pomodoro-style productivity tools. About the Company Founded with a focus on digital wellness innovation, NeuroEnergizer™ is a lifestyle audio brand dedicated to exploring sound-based tools for focus, calm, and attentional support. The company specializes in non-clinical, user-directed listening programs designed to complement modern routines through accessible, portable formats. Since its inception, NeuroEnergizer has contributed to the growing awareness of auditory technologies, such as binaural beats, and their potential role in individual wellness practices. All programs are developed with transparency in mind and are intended for informational use only. NeuroEnergizer™ does not provide treatment or diagnostic services. Future Outlook for Audio-Based Digital Wellness As consumer interest in sound-enabled tools continues to rise, NeuroEnergizer™ is exploring future iterations that integrate personalization, adaptive soundscapes, and wearable tech compatibility. The convergence of AI and biofeedback in audio wellness may soon enable users to dynamically generate binaural beats based on their mood, heart rate, or brainwave activity. Industry analysts suggest that binaural beats and audio therapeutics are poised to disrupt the mental wellness space in a similar way to how meditation apps have reshaped mindfulness. As more individuals seek practical, passive tools that don't demand screen time or external inputs, the market for frequency-based products is expected to grow exponentially. NeuroEnergizer™ aims to stay at the forefront of this shift by remaining transparent, user-led and committed to providing safe and empowering experiences. Contact NeuroEnergizer™ Email: info@ Website: CONTACT: NeuroEnergizer™ Email: info@ Website: while retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data
Gizmodo
2 days ago
- Science
- Gizmodo
This Survey Asked Neuroscientists If Memories Can Be Extracted From the Dead. Here's What They Said
The allure and terror of transferring your consciousness to a computer has long been fodder for cyberpunk novels and billionaire-backed immortality startups. But a substantial chunk of neuroscientists think it might be possible to extract memories from a preserved brain and store those memories inside a computer, according to a new study. The study, published in the journal PLOS One, suggests that most neuroscientists believe that memory has a physical basis and, on average, give a 40% probability that we might one day be able to emulate a human brain. But there was little consensus as to what exactly that physical basis is, highlighting just how little we know about what memories are made of. The authors surveyed 312 neuroscientists—both memory experts and general neuroscientists—to get their thoughts on the feasibility of preserving a human brain and later extracting its memories. It was led by Ariel Zeleznikow-Johnston, a neuroscientist at Monash University in Australia and the author of The Future Loves You: How and Why We Should Abolish Death. While the researchers wrote that the questions of memory extraction from preserved brains are 'strange and speculative,' they provide insight into how neuroscientists think about memory formation. Results of the survey show that neuroscientists largely agree that memories have a physical substrate rather than relying on a dynamic process that ceases at preservation; they're likely stored in the synaptic connections between neurons, which strengthen and weaken with experience. The survey showed that 70% of neuroscientists agree that a physical, molecular record of a memory exists—stored in stable changes to neural connectivity and interactions between proteins and other cellular components—of which you could theoretically take a snapshot. However, 'there was no clear consensus on exactly which neurophysiological feature or scale is critical for memory storage,' the authors wrote in the study. The surveyed scientists didn't agree on what resolution—from the atomic-level composition of biomolecules to nanometer-level resolution of subcellular structures—would be required to extract a memory from a preserved brain. This is largely due to the fact that, while most neuroscientists agree that memory has a physical basis, it's still up for debate exactly what that basis is. The survey also asked whether existing tools could theoretically preserve the structure of a brain well enough to extract memories. Preserving a brain in such a way that the proteins and cells remain intact is tricky, since freezing can damage neural tissue. But one way neuroscientists could do this is through aldehyde-stabilized cryopreservation, a technique that combines chemical fixation with vitrification—the process of turning a substance into a glass-like solid by cooling it down rapidly. The study asked neuroscientists to assign a probability that memories could be extracted from a cryopreserved brain. The participants gave a wide range of estimates, but the median answer was around a 40% probability. The authors asked the neuroscientists how probable it might be to emulate a whole brain—like, uploading and digitizing a person's brain onto a computer—from preserved neural tissue. That could open up the possibility of uploading your full self and consciousness into a machine. In this case, the median answer was again around 40%, though the authors note that the responses again varied widely. 'Admittedly, that's not 100 percent,' Zeleznikow-Johnston told IFLScience. 'That means that there's not full consensus in the community that yeah, definitely this will work, but it's not 0.1 percent, or 0.01 percent. That's a substantial chunk of neuroscientists who think there's a very real chance that it will work, and my guess is that actually that number will creep up over time as we get better at doing these brain implants, emulations, all these other things.' Neuroscientists believe we're still a long way off from being able to emulate an entire human brain, according to the study. When asked when we might be able to emulate a human brain, the respondents gave a median answer of 2125. Still, it's something to think about.
Yahoo
23-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Neuropathic pain has no immediate cause – research on a brain receptor may help stop this hard-to-treat condition
Pain is easy to understand until it isn't. A stubbed toe or sprained ankle hurts, but it makes sense because the cause is clear and the pain fades as you heal. But what if the pain didn't go away? What if even a breeze felt like fire, or your leg burned for no reason at all? When pain lingers without a clear cause, that's neuropathic pain. We are neuroscientists who study how pain circuits in the brain and spinal cord change over time. Our work focuses on the molecules that quietly reshape how pain is felt and remembered. We didn't fully grasp how different neuropathic pain was from injury-related pain until we began working in a lab studying it. Patients spoke of a phantom pain that haunted them daily – unseen, unexplained and life-altering. These conversations shifted our focus from symptoms to mechanisms. What causes this ghost pain to persist, and how can we intervene at the molecular level to change it? Neuropathic pain stems from damage to or dysfunction in the nervous system itself. The system that was meant to detect pain becomes the source of it, like a fire alarm going off without a fire. Even a soft touch or breeze can feel unbearable. Neuropathic pain doesn't just affect the body – it also alters the brain. Chronic pain of this nature often leads to depression, anxiety, social isolation and a deep sense of helplessness. It can make even the most routine tasks feel unbearable. About 10% of the U.S. population – tens of millions of people – experience neuropathic pain, and cases are rising as the population ages. Complications from diabetes, cancer treatments or spinal cord injuries can lead to this condition. Despite its prevalence, doctors often overlook neuropathic pain because its underlying biology is poorly understood. There's also an economic cost to neuropathic pain. This condition contributes to billions of dollars in health care spending, missed workdays and lost productivity. In the search for relief, many turn to opioids, a path that, as seen from the opioid epidemic, can carry its own devastating consequences through addiction. Finding treatments for neuropathic pain requires answering several questions. Why does the nervous system misfire in this way? What exactly causes it to rewire in ways that increase pain sensitivity or create phantom sensations? And most urgently: Is there a way to reset the system? This is where our lab's work and the story of a receptor called GluD1 comes in. Short for glutamate delta-1 receptor, this protein doesn't usually make headlines. Scientists have long considered GluD1 a biochemical curiosity, part of the glutamate receptor family, but not known to function like its relatives that typically transmit electrical signals in the brain. Instead, GluD1 plays a different role. It helps organize synapses, the junctions where neurons connect. Think of it as a construction foreman: It doesn't send messages itself, but directs where connections form and how strong they become. This organizing role is critical in shaping the way neural circuits develop and adapt, especially in regions involved in pain and emotion. Our lab's research suggests that GluD1 acts as a molecular architect of pain circuits, particularly in conditions like neuropathic pain where those circuits misfire or rewire abnormally. In parts of the nervous system crucial for pain processing like the spinal cord and amygdala, GluD1 may shape how people experience pain physically and emotionally. Across our work, we found that disruptions to GluD1 activity is linked to persistent pain. Restoring GluD1 activity can reduce pain. The question is, how exactly does GluD1 reshape the pain experience? In our first study, we discovered that GluD1 doesn't operate solo. It teams up with a protein called cerebellin-1 to form a structure that maintains constant communication between brain cells. This structure, called a trans-synaptic bridge, can be compared to a strong handshake between two neurons. It makes sure that pain signals are appropriately processed and filtered. But in chronic pain, the bridge between these proteins becomes unstable and starts to fall apart. The result is chaotic. Like a group chat where everyone is talking at once and nobody can be heard clearly, neurons start to misfire and overreact. This synaptic noise turns up the brain's pain sensitivity, both physically and emotionally. It suggests that GluD1 isn't just managing pain signals, but also may be shaping how those signals feel. What if we could restore that broken connection? In our second study, we injected mice with cerebellin-1 and saw that it reactivated GluD1 activity, easing their chronic pain without producing any side effects. It helped the pain processing system work again without the sedative effects or disruptions to other nerve signals that are common with opioids. Rather than just numbing the body, reactivating GluD1 activity recalibrated how the brain processes pain. Of course, this research is still in the early stages, far from clinical trials. But the implications are exciting: GluD1 may offer a way to repair the pain processing network itself, with fewer side effects and less risk of addiction than current treatments. For millions living with chronic pain, this small, peculiar receptor may open the door to a new kind of relief: one that heals the system, not just masks its symptoms. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Pooja Shree Chettiar, Texas A&M University and Siddhesh Sabnis, Texas A&M University Read more: How do painkillers actually kill pain? From ibuprofen to fentanyl, it's about meeting the pain where it's at Your body naturally produces opioids without causing addiction or overdose – studying how this process works could help reduce the side effects of opioid drugs Opioid-free surgery treats pain at every physical and emotional level The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Forbes
16-06-2025
- Health
- Forbes
What Happens In The Brain Just Before You Die? A Psychologist Explains
Do our lives really flash before our eyes in death? A once-in-a-lifetime brain scan offers a glimpse ... More at what the mind might be doing in our final moments. Death is perhaps the only thing we are promised in life. And yet, despite how natural and inevitable it is, it remains one of the most elusive subjects in modern neuroscience. Of course, we know what death is. We know what it does to the body: how it stills the lungs, quiets the heart and brings all systems to a halt. What we don't know, however, is how the mind behaves in those final moments. For decades, we've relied on folklore and personal accounts of near-death experiences for clues. Some people describe brilliant white lights, others recall feelings of pure peace — and many say they saw nothing at all. But among the most enduring and cross-cultural reports is the idea that your 'life flashes before your eyes,' a phenomenon researchers call a 'life review.' Until recently, this has remained unprovable; half folklore, half hope. But a 2022 study published in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience caught something remarkable by complete accident: the first-ever glimpse of the brain in the moments just before, and just after, death. In those few seconds, something happened that looks strikingly similar to a life review. This study did not begin with death in mind. Rather, the team of neuroscientists were conducting a routine EEG on an 87-year-old Canadian man with epilepsy. The initial purpose of this scan was to monitor his brain activity, in the hopes of better understanding his seizures. But during the recording, the patient suffered a sudden heart attack. As the authors of the study explained, 'After discussion with the patient's family and in consideration of the Do-Not-Resuscitate (DNR) status of the patient, no further treatment was administered and the patient passed away.' In total, the team of researchers captured approximately 15 minutes of brain activity leading up to, during and just after the patient's death. And, in turn, what was supposed to be standard data collection became something the first known recording of a human brain during the process of dying. This rare and accidental event allowed the researchers to observe, in real time, what happens to the brain as it shuts down. But it was the final 30 seconds before and after the heart patient's heart stopped that something phenomenal happened. 'Just before and after the heart stopped working, we saw changes in a specific band of neural oscillations,' said Dr. Ajmal Zemmar, one of the leading neurosurgeons within the study, in a statement to Frontiers in Psychology. More specifically, the EEG recorded an abnormal surge in gamma waves. These are the highest-frequency among all brainwaves, and they primarily occur within the hippocampus (the brain's memory center). Typically, these oscillations are associated with memory retrieval, dreaming and deep meditation. This spike in gamma wave activity — in tandem with other oscillations such as delta, theta, alpha and beta — created a brainwave pattern that looked remarkably similar to what we see when someone is deeply remembering something, or dreaming vividly. In light of this unprecedented finding, Zemmar suggests that, 'Through generating oscillations involved in memory retrieval, the brain may be playing a last recall of important life events just before we die.' Zemmar notes that this idea — that our brains might perform a kind of memory replay at the end of life — aligns with what thousands of people have described during near-death experiences. In a 2014 study from OMEGA - Journal of Death and Dying, researchers analyzed dozens of these near-death experiences. A consistent theme that emerged was the blurring of 'boundaries between space, time and perception.' The researchers explain that individuals often experience intense feelings of 'joy, happiness, peace, and unconditional love' in these moments. And, often, these are accompanied by something of a panoramic life review. Fascinatingly, researchers believe that humans aren't the only species whose brains seem to do this. Similar brain wave activity has been observed in rats. A 2013 study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences showed that dying rodents also experience a sharp increase in gamma oscillations just before death. A 2019 study in Frontiers of Cellular Neuroscience supported the same findings, too. Given these cross-species similarities, Zemmar and his colleagues suggest something spectacular: that no matter the species, mammals may spend their last moments in deep mental reverie. That consciousness, in its final seconds, could be universal in its inward retreat. It's also likely that brainwaves aren't the only mechanisms involved in this process. It's widely believed that the brain releases large amounts of dimethyltryptamine (DMT) at the time of death. This naturally occurring psychedelic compound can be found in many plants and animals — and it occurs endogenously within humans. In fact, a 2018 study in Frontiers in Psychology found that people who were administered this hallucinogen reported experiences that were uncannily similar to that of a near-death experience: vivid imagery, feelings of transcendence, timelessness and unparalleled emotional insight. Of course, this scan doesn't prove that life reviews are a definitive aspect of dying, nor that they happen to everyone. It was a single case. The patient had epilepsy, which can influence gamma activity on its own. We don't know whether he was truly reliving memories or simply dreaming. But, while we can't say for certain what exactly the brain is doing when we die, we can speculate that these phenomena — the surge in gamma waves, the potential DMT release, the reports of life reviews, the similar findings in animals — may all point to a final burst of meaning-making. That, even as the body begins to shut down, the mind might still be hard at work to give us one last vivid, beautiful experience. That said, these findings don't diminish the depth of loss, nor do they make grieving any easier in any way. Zemmar himself has spoken openly about how indescribably difficult grief can be. But, in his statement, he leaves us with wisdom that's less scientific, and instead more comforting: 'Something we may learn from this research is: although our loved ones have their eyes closed and are ready to leave us to rest, their brains may be replaying some of the nicest moments they experienced in their lives.' Near-death experiences often give rise to 'ego deaths.' Take this science-backed test to find out if you've experienced one before: Ego Dissolution Scale
Forbes
13-06-2025
- Health
- Forbes
Summer Brain Fog: Fighting Backfires, But 5 Tips Boost Productivity
Many people who have summer brain fog try to fight it with caffeine and other means that backfire, ... More but here are tips on how to cope with it. As summer heats up, the physical consequences of heat stroke and heat exhaustion, are well-known. But summer heat also has psychological consequences, know as 'summer brain fog.' According to the Cleveland Clinic, summer brain fog affects how you think, remember and concentrate. It can make doing ordinary work tasks challenging. You might lose your train of thought in the middle of a Zoom meeting or conversation with a team member. Or you could have difficulty concentrating on a project or feel more impulsive or irritable than usual as little things setting you off. June is Brain Health Awareness Month. Your brain has the hefty responsibility of keeping you safe, your career on track and connections to family, friends and loved ones. It's the boss of your mind and body, working for you 24/7, even while you're asleep. It's totally dedicated to you, never taking a break, PTO or vacation. Yet, if you're like most people, you take this amazing organ for granted, neglecting your brain health and what it needs for optimal health and performance. Neuroscientists are constantly studying brain health, reminding us what the brain needs to be happy and healthy to sustain your career. Too few people know about summer brain fog and how to work with your brain, instead of against it, when you're struggling with summer brain fog. If you're finding it harder to concentrate during those long, warm days, you're not alone. A body of research shows that the heat itself can interfere with your cognition, and the duration varies from person to person. But the prevalence and impact are more common than you might think. A study from the American Psychological Association found an eight percent increase in mental health-related emergency department visits on the hottest summer days, while similar studies document a 10% reduction in response times and accuracy on cognitive tests when people are exposed to warmer temperatures. Studies reveal that as temperatures rise, cognitive performance dips at temperatures of 79 degrees. Elevated temperatures lower the activity in your parasympathetic nervous system--the rest and digest response, antidote to the sympathetic nervous system or stress response. Oxygen saturation levels in the blood also are lower at elevated temperatures which are associated with reduced cognitive performance. Researchers have discovered an effect from heat on the productivity of office workers. Workplace productivity is highest when the air temperature is about 72 degrees, and productivity starts to drop off in the mid-70s. Another study shows when high school students take a standardized test on a hot day it's linked to poorer performance. While summer brain fog is real, the typical response is to double down on focus techniques—more caffeine, stricter schedules or forced concentration sessions. But a productivity expert I spoke with by email, suggests that this approach fights against how your brain naturally works during the summer months. Ryan Zhang, productivity expert and founder of told me that the biggest mistake people make with summer brain fog is treating it like a problem to eliminate. 'Brain fog is your brain shifting into a different, more creative operating mode," Zhang explains. 'When you learn to work with it instead of against it, you can stay incredibly productive while feeling less stressed." He informed me that summer brain fog happens because your mind naturally operates differently in warmer weather. Your brain shifts into a more relaxed, wandering mode that's better for making creative connections and seeing the bigger picture. "Think about it this way," Zhang suggests. "Your brain is trying to give you access to different types of thinking—the kind that generates breakthrough ideas and creative solutions. When you force it back into sharp focus mode, you're not just fighting brain fog, you're blocking innovation. The smart approach is to work with summer's wandering mind, not against it." It's important to mention balance. Your brain loves the warmer months. Longer daylight hours can improve mood and cognitive function. Exposure to sunlight gives you more vitamin D, which is linked to memory improvement and mood enhancement. But the culprit is loss of productivity due to extreme heat. Zhang shares expert strategies for maintaining productivity while working with, instead of against, your summer brain: 1. Redesign Your Work Rhythm. Instead of forcing eight-hour focus marathons, Zhang suggests working in 25-30 minute concentrated bursts, followed by 10-15 minute reflection breaks. He says your foggy brain actually performs better with this rhythm, and you'll accomplish more with less mental strain. This advice fits with what many people are doing this summer--taking slow summer vacations. 2. Capture Scattered Insights. Zhang advises you to take advantage of the fact that summer brain fog makes your mind wander. 'Keep simple note-taking tools handy to capture those random thoughts and connections. What feels like a distraction is often your brain making valuable associations.' 3. Use Fog Time for Creative Work. He recommends that you schedule your most creative tasks during peak fog hours. 'Brainstorming, strategic planning and problem-solving actually benefit from your brain's scattered state. Save routine tasks for when your focus naturally returns.' 4. Turn Conversations into Productivity Tools. Since summer brain fog makes you more open to the ideas and perspectives of others, Zhang suggests that you use this time for collaborative work, team discussions and idea-sharing sessions, adding that your relaxed mental state can lead to breakthrough insights. 5. Embrace Background Processing. It helps to give your foggy brain complex problems to work on in the background, according to Zhang. He recommends presenting yourself with a challenge, then do something completely different. Why? He points out that your diffuse attention will often solve what focused thinking couldn't. Aside from staying hydrated during summer heat, Zhang reminds us that the key to mitigating summer brain fog and boosting productivity is having simple systems to capture and develop the insights that emerge when your brain is in this more open, associative mode. 'Stop fighting your summer brain and start working with it,' he concludes. "When you align your work style with your brain's natural seasonal rhythms, you maintain productivity while reducing stress and increasing creativity.'
