“That’ll be $100,000, please.”
Around the world, behind closed doors, professional athletes, elite military personnel, biohackers, and Fortune 100 executives go into special brain re-training facilities. Giving them an unfair advantage towards reach their full potential.
Peak performers thrive under pressure. They consistently make better decisions, faster, and reliably access the “flow state”. Top performers live better and more satisfying lives.
They have a trick up their sleeves…
A powerful yet little-known technology called neurofeedback. One session can cost as much as $1,500. A complete training package can cost up to $100,000. Plus, days spent traveling to the nearest clinic.
Why go through all this hassle?
Our dopamine-fueled modern lifestyle hijacks our brains and takes us out of control. Algorithms, apps, and products covertly control us. Our mind, our thinking, and the way we feel.
Training our brain protects our mind, re-wires our brain into an optimal state, and gives us a massive advantage.
Here’s the best part…
I came across a brand-new, state-of-the-art neurofeedback system that provides clinical-grade brain training. It contains the equivalent of 5 wearables all within one device. Unlimited at-home brain training for less than the price of one neurofeedback session.
Based on your goals and real-time biometrics, their concierge adapts each Program and Mission to suit your needs precisely.
I pre-ordered the Sens.ai Neurofeedback Headset years ago. I’ve finally gotten the chance to test it thoroughly. This is my honest review of the Sens.ai Brain Training System, the science behind it, and my personal experience over 300 sessions later.
By the end, you’ll know how this stacks up to the alternatives and whether it’s right for you.
In a hurry? Check it out now…
What is Sens.ai?
Sens.ai is the company behind the latest and most advanced neurofeedback device.
Frustrated by the lack of quality products available to consumers, and the typical inconvenient hurdles required by the technology, Sens.ai CEO Paola & team set out to design the world’s best at-home brain training platform. The Sens.ai team includes some of the most decorated neuroscientists and neurofeedback experts.
Unlike other devices, this flagship product contains several breakthrough technologies:
- Custom Engineered Headset: Built with quality materials, the comfortable one-size-fits-all device includes pioneering electronics and state-of-the-art software
- Proprietary Neuro Sensors: Three custom EEG sensors within the headset gauge beta, alpha, theta, and a wide range of gamma brainwaves. Without requiring you to apply the messy paste to your hair
- Functional Brain Testing: Their GeniusPulse™ uses a game to quantify your brain’s current performance. Showing your long-term progress. Since it contains clinical-grade sensors, I imagine they’ll build out brain biological age testing eventually.
Best of all, the app gamifies sessions. Making them actually fun and following an optional storyline.
And it’s so much more than neurofeedback.
Sens.ai combines five brain training technologies all in one:
- Medical-grade neurofeedback
- Powerful light stimulation (transcranial photobiomodulation)
- Heart coherence (HRV) biofeedback
- Brain function assessment
- Advanced meditation training
Unlike meditation, there’s no struggle to quiet your mind. No feeling like you’re laboring or doing mental chores.
Whether you’re looking for mental clarity, intense focus, deep relaxation, cognitive resilience, or to replace questionable therapeutics you’re currently using, this is the true holistic brain training platform.
Neurofeedback explained simply
Neurofeedback is a form of brain training that improves our brainwave activity. In reaction to our thoughts and lifestyle changes, the brain fires different electrical impulses. Resulting in the states we’re all familiar with (deep sleep, focus, creativity, stress, relaxation, etc).
Neurofeedback trains your mind to enter and sustain desirable states on command.
Using special sensors, neurofeedback systems quantify your brainwaves. When your brain enters beneficial states, the tech uses an external cue (visual or auditory) to reward the change. When you slip back into unfavorable brainwaves, the cue disappears.
With practice, you learn to control your brainwaves and thus, how you feel and perform. Making it easy to feel:
- Focused
- Relaxed
- Sharp
- Rejuvenated
- Calm
Using this technology, you can teach yourself how to enter and maintain the peak performance gamma brainwave state. The same coveted “flow state” accessed by geniuses, lifelong Zen masters, professional athletes, and other high-performers.
You control your state. Feeling what you want, when you want.
The key differentiator responsible for the success of the world’s elite is their brain health and function, two factors anyone can improve with the right tools Share on XTo learn more, check out my posts on the science and benefits of neurofeedback, as well as my favorite brain training systems.
I’ve used several neurofeedback systems. Sens.ai does everything they do, and a lot more.
Potential Benefits & Use Cases
Sens.ai is currently designing clinical trials to prove the efficacy of this specific system. However, the fundamental technologies within the headset include well-studied modalities like neurofeedback, light stimulation (transcranial photobiomodulation), and heart rate variability (HRV) training.
At its core, this technology grants us control over our mental state. Our mind forms our identity, beliefs, thoughts, emotions, and feelings.
Thus, by choosing our desired brain state, we gain control over every facet of our holistic health and performance.
So the applications use, and therapeutic potential of Sens.ai is nearly limitless.
Users of advanced neurofeedback modalities report wide-ranging effects. Some of which I’ve listed below.
Sens.ai brain training can improve:
- Sleep
- Stress
- Focus & concentration
- Relaxation
- Clarity
- Memory
- Learning
- Introspection
These are the general benefits.
And it’s quickly becoming popular for countless specific use cases.
People use brain training to enhance:
- Gaming
- e-Sports
- Sports
- Programming
- Military excellence
- Easing addictions
- Socialization
- Public speaking
- Acting
- Singing & performing
- Post-brain injury (concussion/TBI)
- Writing
- Meditation
- Art
- Teaching
- Studying
Any occupation or activity that involves the mind (including coordination).
In fact, I’ve talked to several people who used brain training to taper off medications gradually . Of course, always talk to your doctor first before changing your lifestyle or medication regimen.
Nevertheless, the versatility and power of brain training are astounding.
Clinically proven neurofeedback should be part of the school curriculum and the benefits package of every workplace.
For a thorough list, check out the post I wrote on the science and benefits of neurofeedback brain training, or listen to my Podcast review.
Best of all, Sens.ai is much more than neurofeedback.
Use the Sensai promo code URBAN to save 5%
How Sens.ai Works
Sens.ai is a full suite of brain-enhancing tools, comprising both hardware and software.
It has a bit of a learning curve but becomes simple after several sessions.
The headset is the primary hardware you’ll use, and the “brains” of the system. It’s required for every use. You can use the Genius Controller occasionally (in tandem with the headset) to quantify and assess your brain functioning.
Setup
After charging both the headset and GeniusPulse (which took me about 30 minutes), the first step is to download the app and follow the on-screen instructions. It’ll have you pair the headset via BlueTooth twice. Once for the sensors, and once for the audio.
Then you wet the sensors with a few drops of water using the provided tube.
From there, you’re ready to open the app.
App
The developers did a great job thinking through the app. Both the UI, the AI-powered assistant, and the storyline that runs through each session.
I found this software to be self-explanatory, elegant, and fun to use. You don’t need to understand brainwave science to reap the benefits. You have the option to either follow the mission story arc or skip it and go straight into training.
The main tabs within the Sens.ai app include:
- Mission
- Train
- Assess
- Boost
The latter three are different modes. More on each of them shortly.
Connect
Before every session, a pop-up prompts you to share your current state. You adjust sliders for your levels of calm, focus, energy, and happiness. I take about ten seconds to answer.
Finally, you wear the headset and push the ear pads to contour it to your scalp perfectly. Make sure all three sensors touch your head. It’ll require you to sit still to get a high-fidelity signal lock. Ensuring you get accurate biofeedback (and thus the best results).
From opening the app to getting my session takes between 20 seconds to about two minutes, depending on my environment. Non-native electromagnetic fields can interfere with sensitive sensors. If you have issues getting a signal lock, try moving to a different area.
You repeat this process for every session.
If you’re using the GeniusPulse brain assessment tool, you’ll also plug the provided cord into the headset’s 3.5mm jack. After clicking through a few screens, you’re ready.
Begin
The sessions themselves vary based on the type and chosen duration.
You can select between heart rate coherence (HRV biofeedback) training, or classic neurofeedback. They designed some programs to be used with visual cues, while others you do with your eyes closed.
Throughout the sessions, you must remain sitting upright and fairly stationary for the sensors to read and adjust the program to your brainwaves accurately. If you move too much, the program pauses until you regain a high-quality signal.
At the end of your session, you’ll get a prompt asking you to check in and adjust several sliders to rate your new mental state.
All the while, Sens.ai helped you train and recorded your biometrics in the background. After training, you then see these stats and can compare them as you use the device more.
The Three Core Sens.ai Modes
Sens.ai is the first holistic brain training kit I’ve discovered. Although they also offer heart rate variability coherence training, it’s centered on brainwave biofeedback.
The three Sens.ai modes include:
- Assess
- Train
- Boost
Each of these modes is traditionally one separate device. Sometimes, as with the Train mode, multiple separate systems.
Assess (GeniusPulse)
Assess uses the GeniusPulse add-on to quantify your brain’s current performance. While you play a simple game, it measures a suite of brain biomarkers.
This is huge. If they even track it, most systems only report a few metrics regarding your neurofeedback session. You can compare sessions, but what does that ultimately do?
GeniusPulse translates your progress into demonstrable improvements to the cognitive biomarkers that actually matter, such as:
- Speed of thinking
- Working memory
- Reaction time
- Accuracy
- Error correction
- Impulse control
And more.
Behind the scenes, they use mathematical measurements called Event-Related Potentials (ERPs) to measure the brain’s performance. Faster speeds equate to greater power. Clinicians use this same technology in their peer-reviewed research.
ERP components like P300, for example, is a biomarker for academic achievement. It reflects attentional processes involved in stimulus evaluation and inhibition control [R].
The game itself takes 15 minutes. And, honestly, it’s not the most fun. Basically, shapes flash onto the screen and you identify them as fast as possible.
The difficulty varies, and after about 10 minutes, I feel like I’ve entered a trance state.
I recommend using Assess before your first session and after every two weeks of training. You should start seeing significant changes after about 10 brain training sessions.
If you’re not accustomed to brain training, take a break between assessment and training.
Train (improve)
Train is the bread and butter of the system. This is where Sens.ai measures your real-time biomarkers (brainwaves or heart coherence), and gives you real-time cues to rewire your brain.
The two key technologies behind Train include:
- HRV biofeedback
- Neurofeedback
Unlike most other HRV biofeedback devices available, Sens.ai finds your resonant frequency breath rate. This is the optimal inhalation and exhalation cadence that, when followed, re-balances your unique nervous system.
HRV training is foundational and easier to control and improve than neurofeedback. Thus, it’s the first program available to new users.
Only once you’ve completed a Heart Coherence session do you unlock their clinically-developed neurofeedback.
There are different neurofeedback training programs to train specific brain states (and brainwaves). Everyone starts with Calm, but then you can move on to Focus or others.
Boost (stimulate)
As explained in my roXiva RX1 review, the mind is sensitive to external forces. Whether via light or sound, it will match the frequency of the applied force.
Neurofeedback provides long-lasting and long-term benefits. The effects take multiple sessions to build up. Even more to notice.
Boost does exactly what its name implies: it enhances brain function. It provides special light energy to the brain via transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM).
Within about 10-minutes, Sens.ai boost elevates:
- Brain function
- Concentration
- Mood
This light stimulates your mitochondrial function within brain cells, improving cellular oxygenation and energy production.
Throughout the session, it adapts its intensity and output based on your brainwave patterns. Ensuring you enter an ideal state every time.
With neurostimulation, more is not better. Optimal is better.
That’s what sets it apart…
Personalization.
Boost uses near-infrared light to stimulate specific locations on the brain at your optimal frequency. Using your personalized frequency and power level elicits your ideal state change. Without side effects.
The app contains several Boost modes:
- Snooze (Transcendium): Relax & prep for bed
- Chill (Resilium): Calm and clear relaxation that’s great for unwinding
- Prepare (Resilium): Prime for relaxed productivity
- Expand (Cognizium): Uplifting boost for peak performance
I use Expand to induce apex states instantaneously. It’s a great pre-event. Whether sports, public speaking, work, etc.
My Experience With Sens.ai Brain Training
Since receiving my full Sens.ai kit many months ago, the entire process has impressed me. Enough that I bring it with me traveling.
From the sleek, Apple-like unboxing, to the easy-to-navigate app, to the measurable improvements I’ve gained through training.
You can easily customize session details. Such as the total duration, the background soundtrack, or the chimes.
You can chain together the different training forms into one session. I often do HRV biofeedback and then immediately launch into a Focus neurofeedback session.
And I expect their software to only improve as we provide feedback.
Mission
The app follows an engaging storyline that involves mining for rare minerals to heal your imaginary planet.
Each brain state corresponds to a different mineral.
Every time you complete a training session, your stores of a particular mineral increase. This ensures that you don’t skip the fundamentals and instead balance and optimize your training.
The general training regiment comprises eight weeks of a guided training program.
You can choose to follow it (and level up your character) or choose your own adventure. I’m currently at Level 15.
At the end of each chapter, the storyline progresses, and your current objectives change. They recommend logging a GeniusPulse brain function assessment before and after the mission to show your improvements.
After eight weeks of establishing a healthy neurofeedback foundation, you unlock missions that cater to specific goals:
- Peak Performance
- Ultimate Resilience
- Calm You
- Sustainable Performance
- Sleep Nirvana
- Sharp Mind
- Clear Mind
After mastering these, you then can access the next level of missions.
Sens.ai’s advanced missions include:
- Brain Upgrade
- Expanded Awareness
- Attention Mastery
- Freedom Now
- Monk’s Mind
- Deep Creativity
- Ultimate Performance
- Still Mind
- True Nature
- Deep Dive
I’ve found it fun and engaging. Since I got my headset, I’ve worked through about 3/4 of the missions so far.
Although it’s not perfectly clear which trainings count towards the current mission, and which do not.
Brainwaves
Whether you target relaxation, focus, sleep, or performance, each state corresponds to a particular brainwave pattern.
Most neurofeedback systems train just one brainwave. Usually Alpha, but sometimes Theta too.
Very few do multiple.
Instead of only training specific brainwave frequency bands, this platform focuses on functional outcomes.
With Sens.ai, you build a fountain of resiliency via training Alpha and Beta brainwaves, along with HRV. Eventually, you layer on Gamma and Theta training on top. Resulting in unique and functional brainwave combinations.
Every program throughout the app displays which minerals you’re gathering from training. For the science-minded, you can interpret the minerals as brainwaves.
Minerals correspond to Sens.ai’s brainwave target frequency bands (from fastest to slowest):
- Cognizium: Gamma/Beta
- Resilium: Alpha
- Transcendium: Theta
You’ll also see icons for Synchrony and Harmonium in the sessions information. These, however, are not minerals.
As you progress through the missions, you learn to synchronize alpha, gamma, and theta simultaneously. Bringing you into what they call the “ultimate integrated brain state”.
Unlike neurofeedback, which trains narrow bands of specific brainwaves, the Sens.ai adaptive system trains you to accomplish real-world outcomes.
Modes
I’ve mostly used Calm Heart (HRV), Calm, Focus, and Intense Focus. To socialize or prepare for sleep, I sometimes use Deep Calm instead.
Calm Heart is a form of HRV biofeedback training. The pulse oximeter on the headset’s ear cup quantifies heart rate variability in real time. I’ve done this form of training with other devices.
Calm Heart easily and quickly shifts my state. In fact, I’d say it’s the most time-efficient stress relieving, and resilience-building biohack I’ve encountered. After just seven minutes (the shortest duration available), I feel an unshakeable calmness. Nothing can throw me off my game.
Calm. So far, I’ve found the Calm sessions more difficult. My first nine sessions yielded embarrassingly low scores. Around session ten, something shifted. I can now more reliably enter this relaxed state. By the time the session ends, I feel noticeably different. More grounded and centered. I feel levelheaded and ready to approach my work. Better resourced to show up as my best self in my relationships too.
Calm has become my bread and butter. Most days, I like to stack a Calm neurofeedback session with 7 minutes of Calm Heart first as a “primer”. The results some of the most potent anxiolytic substances I’ve tried.
Deep Calm. The description compares this Mode to the effects of wine—serene and tranquilizing. I rarely like using any technology late at night. So I don’t use this mode as often as the others. Compared to Calm, I have an easier time scoring high, and I find the post-training effects quite powerful. At the end of the session, I felt completely open and ready to sleep.
It provided the social lubricating effects of alcohol, along with the drowsiness. According to my Oura ring wearable, this also improves both my sleep quality and quantity scores. Deep Calm works great to help combat jet lag too.
Although I purchased this headset mainly to train gamma brainwaves, I now realize that my focus (and this mode) needs the least improvement.
Focus. To my surprise, I had zero trouble with Focus mode. The first time I did it, I already got into a hot streak. I found my ability here much more satisfying (but probably less needed). I noticed little difference between Focus and Intense Focus. After each, I felt alert and ready to go.
Intense Focus. Similar to the feeling I get after a really motivational pep talk. Having only completed half a dozen sessions with this mode, I already see the benefits of translating into my work. I notice greater mental endurance and the ability to tune out distractions. This one is great for productivity and getting work done. They compare it to coffee.
As you progress, after about 100 sessions, I unlocked three other neurofeedback training modes.
Clarity. Described as the solution to connecting ideas and discovering new patterns. Like the focus modes, I found this one pleasantly stimulating. I feel decently energized after each session, but without the tunnel vision caused by coffee and other stimulants.
As a multiple-hat-wearing business person, content creator, and data scientist, of the stimulating sessions, so far I prefer this one.
Concentration. The name describes its use case best. This one is great for focusing on one single thing and tuning out everything else. In other words, for dropping into the flow state. Although in a more introspective fashion. I found this one most helpful to cultivate emotional health/presence.
Introspection. This is the one to rapidly change behaviors, re-wire subconscious memories, shed limiting beliefs, and to master introspection. I find it particularly calming but also slightly energizing. Introspection has become one of my favorites.
Then, once you have about 200 sessions under your belt, you unlock three more neurofeedback trainings.
Brightening. One of the stronger energizing trainings, Sensai describes brightening as causing a “nootropic-like effect”. Or, bringing the world into high-definition. This is another one that can replace coffee. If you’re looking to clear brain fog, Brightening is the session for you.
Mindfulness unlocks with the Monk’s Mind mission. This is classic theta brainwave training and replicates the state that advanced meditators enter (and sustain). As you may suspect, it pairs perfectly with mindfulness meditations.
The mission I’m currently completing has me doing Mindfulness sessions most days. I find these sessions quite easy and less engaging than the others.
Insight. Although I unlocked this one, I have yet to train it. Insight’s supposed to support creative, lateral thinking. To improve complex problem solving. I plan to train Insight as soon as I finish Monk’s Mind.
Neurostimulation
I own several brain-boosting technologies.
Including…
A tACS device that applies micro-currents of electricity to the head.
Neuroacoustic software like Brain.fm (read my review) and NuCalm (my review) entrain specific brain frequencies. I’ve used other powerful neural entrainment technologies like Braintap too.
And a bunch of others.
Aside from the audio, I don’t use most devices. They simply don’t customize the treatment to my neurochemistry.
I often tack on a Boost after my main training session. I mostly use Expand or Drive to enter a gamma brainwave dominant state and to get my best work done.
Again, like the other modes, Sensai customizes the neurostimulation to match exactly what your brain needs.
For example, my last Expand Boost session used a 41.0Hz Personalized Boost Frequency. This is a measure of the number of light flashes per second that my brain resonated best with (in the gamma band).
Afterward, I felt a similar mental buzzing to drinking about a half cup of coffee. Only cleaner and more translatable into my work.
Expand mode usually lasts me around four hours. But it doesn’t have the same crash of caffeine either.
I can use this Boost until about 7 PM, and if I do Expand any later, it will noticeably interfere with my 10 PM sleep time.
I don’t use the others very often, but I plan on experimenting more with the Prepare Boost too.
Honest Review of The Sens.ai Brain Optimization Platform
Although it hasn’t been perfect. I haven seen no other honest Sens.ai reviews, so I wanted to share my full experience so far.
Everything I love about the platform, and the areas I hope they improve.
Sens.ai Review: The Pros
A number of things stood out to me, which is why I pre-ordered and paid for the system nearly 15 months before receiving it.
5-in-1. There are lots of great neurofeedback systems available. Yet none combine five different modalities into one. I couldn’t even find another that combined three. The convenience and integration of everything into one were among the top reasons I chose Sens.ai over the alternatives.
Data. Data lovers will adore this tool. I can see how my brain performance stats change after each session and compare it to my historical trends. I can use the GeniusPulse at any time to quantify how other health modalities, nootropics, and supplements impact a thorough suite of brain function biomarkers. Or even as a baseline benchmark in case I sustain a brain injury in the future.
Accuracy. Another key differentiator between Sens.ai and the alternatives comes down to the quality of the signal (signal fidelity). Few consumer systems measure with the same precision. When measuring something as intricate as brainwaves, the signal quality makes all the difference. In fact, if electrosmog in your current location interferes with the signal, this system prompts you to physically move elsewhere before training. Better signal, better outcomes.
Gel-free. Neurofeedback requires extremely precise signal sensing to gauge brainwaves accurately. Virtually every other EEG-based system requires the user to lather gel into the hair before every single session. This makes daily or semi-daily neurofeedback a major pain, especially for those with long hair.
Gamification. This gamifies the future of health, borrowing the same model as other addictive technologies (say, social media). The best way to establish a new habit is to make it fun and rewarding. This system makes brain training fun and exciting. I know a ton of people with brain sensors and neurofeedback systems. Most stop using them because it feels like a chore. Not Sens.ai.
Hardware. I find the build quality and thought that went into the hardware design impressive. The headset itself is comfortable and one size fits all. Yet it’s also loaded with state-of-the-art sensors and technologies. And all things considered, it doesn’t look atrocious.
App. The development team did a great job with the app layout. From making brain training accessible to audiences of any background to thinking through the ideal progression of missions. They pair each training with soothing soundscapes, and sometimes, visuals. All the instructions are explicit, concise, and easy to understand.
Diversity. Right now, Sens.ai offers 12+ different programs. You can follow an eight-week progression that takes you through 16 missions. It’s a brand-new device and company, so I imagine they’ll add more over time too.
Battery. When using my headset for about 30 minutes per day, I get a full week of usage before I must recharge the battery. Convenient for traveling. The unit recharges within about an hour too. Although for some reason, it doesn’t let me start missions when I dip under 27% battery.
Value. The price is certainly high (in the cons below too), but what you get is unparalleled. No other brain training system offers as much for the price. Compared to in-clinic neurofeedback, Sens.ai pays for itself in just a session or two.
Sens.ai Review: The Cons
This is a brand-new device, and I own one of the first available to consumers.
As expected, Sens.ai has some kinks to work out. Some of these criticisms are limitation of the neurofeedback technology itself rather than their platform.
Price. There’s no avoiding it. This device costs north of $1,000 which is almost a deal breaker for me. I also may have missed or forgotten about this. Disclaimer. After the first year, you’ll need a membership to access your data. I believe it’s around $240. $20 per month isn’t insane, and likely funds future developments, but it still adds up.
Sensor wetting. Every EEG-based neurofeedback system requires conductivity. As do most electricity-based medical devices. While it’s an amazing improvement that this one doesn’t require applying gel to the hair before every session, users still need to wet the sensors (with water). The process takes about 30 seconds.
Signal lock. I immediately noticed that getting an accurate signal lock can take some time and patience. You can’t sit too close to any large electrical devices, sit outside in any wind, or move too much. If you do, Sens.ai will take forever to acquire a signal and easily disconnect.
Placement. If you have long hair, it takes longer to connect. You can make it faster by manually clearing some hair around the sensors so they directly contact the scalp. You’ll also need to sit up straight and not move much throughout the session. If you move too much, the program will pause until you regain a clear signal.
Internet required. I wanted to do a few neurofeedback sessions while I was on the road traveling. I quickly discovered that the app requires the internet to function. This is strange because the first time I do a program I see a progress bar mentioning that it’s “downloading assets”. So it should be available offline, and I imagine they’ll fix this soon.
Sharing. As much as I love this technology, they clearly designed it for individual usage. If you plan on sharing with others, they must get their own membership. If they use your account, their data will merge with your own and render the data meaningless.
Mission progress. According to their CEO, Paola, each user progresses dynamically through missions. Since there was no preset mission sequence, I found it difficult to know if everything was working right. I’d like more information about my current mission and the motivation of knowing what I’ll unlock in the next mission.
Meeting deadlines. I pre-ordered expecting that my unit would arrive within 2 quarters (according to their roadmap). They publicly announced a Q3 2022 launch. When there were global parts shortages, we backers didn’t receive timely information regarding the status of our orders. The arrival date kept getting pushed and pushed at the last minute. Then again, this is a brand new company and they’ve now ironed out both inventory and manufacturing process. Since you’re reading this now, you shouldn’t face any of these issues.
To me, the pros of Sens.ai dramatically outweigh the cons. Anyway, most of the cons I’m listing should be easy fixes or are already no longer issues.
Sens.ai Pricing
Neurofeedback is an expensive technology. It requires incredibly sensitive sensors and a means of providing feedback cues.
Then there’s conveying that data to the public. To actually understand your session. All of this requires tremendous R&D, and then the cost of state-of-the-art parts plus labor.
Sens.ai brain training headsets cost $1,500.
The first year of use is complimentary. After that, there’s an optional $240 per year membership fee to access your data. The device still functions without membership though.
Although it sucks to pay a subscription on top of a ~$1,400 system, when you do the math it still comes out quite cost-effective.
Unlimited use of the entire Sens.ai kit plus three years of premium membership still costs less than one or two in-clinic neurofeedback sessions.
And you don’t have any of the time, transportation, opportunity cost, or other hassles of clearing your schedule for professional neurofeedback.
Plus, this one system renders four other wearables I own obsolete.
Sens.ai Headset Alternatives
I haven’t found any other devices that are direct competitors. Everything else lacks multiple features/programs/modes.
Sens.ai sets itself apart from these other neurofeedback devices via:
- Comprehensive System: Sens.ai is a 5-in-1 Brain Training System that encompasses multiple cognitive enhancement techniques in one platform. Long-term results via neurofeedback, immediate results via neuro-light therapy and heart coherence training, and quantification technology to prove the benefits. Traditional neurofeedback devices focus on a single aspect of brain training. This is a comprehensive solution.
- Customizability: Sens.ai allows precise personalization of training programs to address specific needs and goals. Then, it uses your real-time data to customize other modes (like stimulation) to your particular needs. It also employs continuous signal quality monitoring and adaptive neurostimulation for better training integrity and flexibility.
- Accessibility: Sens.ai is portable, easy to use, and convenient. There are no wires, gels, or complicated parts. All you need is the internet and a few drops of water. Virtually any age and skill level can use the system. Making regular brain training a low-friction habit to adopt.
- User Experience: Sens.ai creates a user-friendly experience. The platform uses gamification to make brain training addictive. The intuitive app interfaces, progress tracking, detailed session biometrics, and the plethora of training options keep the process engaging.
- Holistic Approach: By combining cognitive enhancement, memory improvement, focus enhancement, relaxation, and stress reduction techniques, Sens.ai holistically trains the brain. Offering a more well-rounded solution compared to virtually every other device that targets only one area or brainwave pattern.
But you may want something more affordable that only does one of the five modalities.
Those on a budget can start brain training with these Sens.ai alternatives:
- Cheap neurofeedback: Muse
- Brain photobiomodulation: Braintap
- HRV biofeedback: Hanu Health
But if you add these technologies together, you get more devices, more expensive memberships, siloed data, and a much larger total price.
How to Amplify Your Brain Training Results
Every respected neuroscientist agrees on the value of core health practices for cognitive function.
To improve your brain, you should work on your:
- Sleep
- Nutrition
- Hydration
- Movement
- Stress management
These are the fundamentals.
I also recommend engaging in some new, novel activities or situations. All of this works synergistically with brain training.
For the advanced, I like to add in some high-quality nootropics. Like:
Or even neuropeptides like Dihexa and Cerebrolysin.
The right products combined with neurofeedback can help the brain rewire, grow, and form new connections. Resulting in faster and stronger benefits.
Outliyr Brain Training Protocol
So how am I personally using this to get the best results, fast?
Here’s my current Sens.ai brain training protocol:
- 1 x 15-20 minute Sens.ai Calm session first thing in the morning
- DIY Outliyr Morning Hydration Elixir
- 1 x Nootopia nootropics blend
- 1 ampoule of cerebrolysin or topical dihexa
- Biohacked resistance training session (KAATSU, Katalyst, or free weights)
- Engaging in challenging work
- Eating a high-fat, high-protein lunch
- Optional: exogenous ketone shot
- 1 x 10-minute Sens.ai Boost session after lunch before returning to work
- Eating a tiny amount of complex carbohydrates to re-fuel my brain
- Engaging in challenging work
I repeat this Monday through Friday and take the weekends off. After a few weeks, I will drop the cerebrolysin and continue.
Since neurofeedback can be quite taxing, you’ll also want to use these same strategies to fully optimize your recovery protocol.
Supercharging Your Brain With Sens.ai Brain Training
Your mind largely determines the rest of your reality.
Your identity, beliefs, thoughts, emotions, feelings, and actions all stem from your brain.
Yet humans haven’t had the tools to monitor and troubleshoot the inevitable brain inefficiencies or glitches that accumulate from living.
Especially in a dopamine-driven, technology-first world, specifically engineered to take control of your mind.
Brain training is an antidote to this global and growing issue.
By using sensors to monitor brainwaves, we’re able to give the brain gentle cues to help it improve its ability to self-regulate. With practice, it learns to enter and maintain ideal states.
Your mind becomes more resilient, and you take control of the lead domino dictating your life.
Sens.ai is like a mirror for your mind, helping you address areas that need the most work Share on XYou learn to:
- Easily focus for hours without distraction
- Sleep deeper, faster, and more efficiently
- Stay relaxed and smooth in high-stakes situations
- Live in your unique “zone of genius”, a state that takes most people 10,000+ hours to reach
- Control the “uncontrollable” states of mind
- Physically and mentally dominate
- Sustain your high-performance
Until recently, you had two choices to achieve this.
Affordable yet weak at-home systems that don’t do much. Or a complete professional neurofeedback package often costing north of $100,000. Even more to add the other modalities too.
I’ve tried many neurotech apps, devices, and systems, and this is the best I’ve encountered. It certainly has its flaws (mentioned above), but Sens.ai is leagues ahead of everything else.
In fact, this all-in-one system has features usually contained within five separate wearables.
Other neurofeedback devices train narrow ranges of brainwave frequencies. Sensai’s adaptive system targets real-world outcomes.
You can use the included GeniusPulse Assess module to track both your brain’s objective improvements (like thinking speed, working memory, reaction time, accuracy, and impulse control) and subjective improvements (energy, mood, and focus).
Based on your results and current real-time biometrics, Sens.ai’s personalization concierge adapts your session to fulfill exactly what your brain needs.
The system isn’t perfect, but it’s a solid at-home brain training system that’s built to last. And it’s many years ahead of anything else I’ve discovered.
After pre-ordering, I waited nearly 15 months for them to release the first batch of units. Well worth the wait. While units in the next batch are still available, you can pre-order one for yourself and save up to $200. Just click the link below now.
Use the Sensai promo code URBAN to save 5%
If you’ve used Sens.ai, let me know your experience in the comment below!
Sens.ai Headset
Is Sens.ai the ultimate 5-in-1 brain training headset? 300+ sessions later, I've thoroughly tested and reviewed this system to help you decide if it's worth the price.
Product Price: $1500
Product In-Stock: InStock
4.79
Pros
- 5 brain training devices in 1
- Fast customer support
- Rugged carrying case
- Portable
- Highly accurate data
- Unlimited usage
- Rapid app & firmware updates
- Safe & powerful
- Integrous & generous brand
Cons
- Expensive
- Requires membership for full access
- Can't access raw data
- Can take a while to establish a clean signal
- Some app glitches
- Headset shouldn't be shared
Hi,
Does Sens.ai have the ability to isolate the area of the brain you are training? A new product, Prism, specializes in Prism users learning to control key neural connections between the amygdala and frontal cortex to boost their emotional regulation and stress resilience. This is for PTSD patients. I want my mind to relax on telling me that danger is near.
Thank you.
Bruce
Hey Bruce! Thought I responded to this, but it looks like my comment didn’t post for some reason. Sensai doesn’t let you choose a isolate a specific part of the brain and just focus all your training on that. Their rationale is that the brain never works in isolation, and thus wouldn’t hold up to real-world conditions. That said, the different modes do preferentially engage specific regions, and functional pairs.
So when you train “Deep Calm”, for example, you’re certainly going to learn to control the amygdala/PFC pair. I’ve seen their preliminary data on the states that this system can achieve and it’s impressive.
Although if you’re JUST looking for that one function and nothing more, perhaps Prism would be a better fit.
My $0.02.
Hello, I am considering buying this to use for my mental health practice. So I want to be sure about each client that I use it with being able to create their own account or me being able to create multiple accounts to use with them in session. Do you think that is feasible? Also, and maybe a bigger issue, for my practice I do not have direct internet but use my phone hotspot to access my laptop. Will this make the device unusable in my office?
Hey Susanne! That shouldn’t be an issue. I believe that each account will require a membership though. Their team told me that they’re working on a different software approach that will be perfect for clinics. They should be able to provide you with more info on that.
And yep! I’ve used the hotspot on my phone for internet many times 🙂
Nick
Hi Nick
There are a historical for the sessions but it doesn’t serve because we cannot compare sessions because there is a baseline.
Imagine we train 1 year and we increase a lot our calm. We cannot see it because the scores are related to the baseline which will higher as we progress so the score are unchanged during the time even if we progress
I agree. Comparison is currently tricky in its current form. I’m imagining that they will release a feature sometime down the line to allow us to effectively compare sessions. This would probably use the raw data. I actually suggested this to their team already. Good point!
Hi Nick,
I am having a hard time to decide between this device and the Brainbit Mindo, which, from a training perspective, seems to do very similar things at a fraction of the price. As far as I can tell the hardware seems pretty solid.
Would love any input from you on this.
I know you are affiliated with sens.io, but am hoping you can still give a fair comparison?
There is an app that I downloaded yesterday which lets you explore all the different trainings (without actually doing them of course), and they seem quite innovative compared from what I have seen with Mendi and I think even sens.io
Thanks so much,
Florian
Hi Florian,
I just checked out the Brainbit platform. Reached out to the team and I’m hoping to hop on a call and discuss their science with them. So far, it looks like it does the neurofeedback aspect of Sens.ai. That’s 1 of the 5 modalities Sensai does. So Mindo won’t be able to quantify your brain performance, safely stimulate it with light, or train HRV. I like that you’re able to use it in any position—even laying down. Also that they don’t currently require a subscription.
I see two potential deal-breakers for me here: signal quality and brainwave range.
Signal quality makes or breaks neurofeedback. The entire session depends on clean signal. Without it, you may accidentally brain the wrong frequency which defeats the purpose. In the worst case, it could even cause you to train undesirable states. Like energy before bed. Precision is VERY important with brain training and I don’t see much info on their landing page about how they ensure signal fidelity.
This is one of the main differences between professional neurofeedback in clinics vs cheaper at home systems.
Mindo can only measure alpha, beta, and theta brainwaves. Personally, I find training gamma to be the most helpful AND noticeable. It’s my favorite, and this platform can’t do it. They don’t mention the potential frequency range of the device which is a red flag for me.
Overall, it seems like a decent beginner platform at a good price.
Hope that helps!
Nick
P.S. I’ll update this as I learn more from them.
I’ve had my device for a few months now and continue to find the ‘acquiring signal’ part to be incredibly frustrating. It’s VERY rare that I can get it started in less than 5min. Sometimes it’s 20min of troubleshooting. My device seems to not want to stay connected on the 2nd BLE connection (the audio part). I commonly have to start over from scratch with the connection (ie forget this device and repair) and even then it will say it’s connected then disconnect the audio as its finding the signal.
I want to love this device but these connection errors make it largely unusable. I’ve submitted a ticket with the company. They haven’t offered any useful suggestions yet but wondering if you have any advice on the BLE connections? I’ve tried using iPad and iPhone and have had the headset work at times using both and also no work at time using both. I’m baffled.
Hi Michelle, OMG I know what you mean. When I was getting started, a few times it took me a good 15 minutes of frustration. First, are you on the latest app version and headset firmware update? I still lose the BLE connection on occasion, about every 30 sessions or so. Seems to have improved recently.
What does your signal process look like? Are all three sensors stuck below a certain percent? Is it just 1? Is the HRV signal weak (the middle gauge)?
The things I’ve done to improve signal include:
– More water (a LOT of water can help)
– Move to a place with low levels of electrosmog/nn-EMFs
– Make sure the sensors are screwed in properly
– If you have long hair, part it down the middle and pull it away from your right ear so that the pad is directly touching skin
– Use the latest headset/app updates
– Try reseating the headset on your head
– If all that fails, I completely remove it and refit it
Hopefully one of these does the trick!
Thanks.
There’s definitely something wrong with the audio BLE connection. I’ve done tons of troubleshooting… Every time I have to go through the whole start up process- it never works unless I “forget this device” then do the whole pairing thing from scratch. Today though it won’t connect to the audio BLE even when I’ve done that. Headset battery is at 88% so it shouldn’t be a battery issue. I’ve gone back and forth via email with the support team on this for weeks and the problem is just getting worse.
It’s a shame bc in theory this could be great brain training. Instead it’s a lesson in managing frustration when the device won’t connect or stay connected. I’ve tried on both my iPhone and my iPad (separately, with BLE function off on the other device to make sure it’s not interfering) and it’s same issue either way. Leads me to believe the issue is with the headset.
Curious. It is rare that it takes me more than 30 sec in iPhone
Have you tried to do a session elsewhere ?. Because they are I interference with other electrical devices
Yes! I’ve tried sessions everywhere I can think of. Different times of the day, different surroundings. The recent updates seemed to have REALLY helped. They did tell me that I had uncovered a bug and it’s now fixed (luckily).
Hey Michelle! Sorry to hear about that. Did you notice it get any better? That issue completely resolved itself (semi-recently) for me, several app and firmware updates later. Luckily, I think it’s more likely software or firmware than your headset hardware.
There is no way I would connect something like this to the internet and would never suggest it. This product should be sold from the factory as never needing an internet connection but for updates and that should not require an account. The temptation for the company and those in between to use these types of devices for harmful purposes is far too great.
I get what you mean. For a lot of companies and products, I would agree. There’s always a risk of that. From watching TV to listening to Spotify. Including in-clinic neurofeedback. This team is trustworthy. I personally like having all my data portable and associated with my account. Large tech companies like Google have a much more thorough database of your activity and accurate predictive models of your personality. Using any technology always comes down to an individual decision.
In the app > Profile > What Are Minerals > Watch Trailer
Compare to oscillations graphics here: https://sens.ai/science/brainwaves/
Ah, in the app. That’s right. It’d be nice if all the info was available on their website. But yes, I’m familiar with the brain waves. I actually interviewed them on the podcast recently. I’ll release it in 8 days and embed it into this post!
Thanks for this review. Your roadmap on how to use the Sens.AI device is helpful. I am approaching 60 y/o so I like having a user guide approach. I received notice of shipping that I will receive my Sens.AI device in two days, and your review is timely for me. I placed my order nearly 90 days ago, so Sens.AI must have their supply chain issues resolved, as my tracking delivery date meets the 90 day delivery I was told at the time of my purchase.
I live in a small regional center city and the single provider of Neurofeedback services is offered in a non-psychotherapeutic clinical treatment context, with option to purchase a gel cap for at home use, so costing this Sens.AI device and future subscription(s) had limited comparisons, but the feature rich technology of Sens.AI seemed to me to offer both the better performance and price. A nice perk is the notice I received today where as an early purchaser/or because of past supply chain delays, I can share with a friend a 90 day cancellable free trial that rolls over into paid annual subscription for their own full use of all Sens.AI modules/sessions. I had socialized sharing my device with separate user licenses with Sens.AI and this option is expanded from the initial “boost” and “meditation” sessions only available for shared devices, so I really appreciate the social reinforcement of being able to share the progression of my experience of Sens.AI with a friend exploring their own Sens.AI training options (one shared headset unit).
I was tuned into Neurofeedback after reading Sebern Fisher’s book on Neurofeedback (who neither endorses nor disclaims Sens.AI), and Youtubes on Neurofeedback with Sebern F. and Jay Gunkelman. Jay G. is on the Sens.AI website as one of their science advisors, so my hopeful trust in the product was anchored in discovering Neurofeedback through Sebern’s and Jay’s media presence. Expanded Google searches turned up Sens.AI. Your feedback on the effectiveness of the device is what I am hoping to experience, and see how effective it is over the long term, or whether the novelty wears off, or thin. I own no other brain training devices, this is a first. I do not take nootropics or any pharma, so I am looking forward to this as an adventure.
My first choice would have been to do this under a neurofeedback trained clinical psychologist’s supervision, but that is economically not feasible as it would require time and travel to a larger center (out of reach). The meditation modules will be a first for me to explore as well. Reading on the separate types of brain waves and how different types of brain waves are linked to meditation is all new to me. Not specific to Sens.AI, but Sebern F. mentions successful brain training could take ten years to attain mindful meditation, but can now be achieved in a few weeks of clinically directed neurofeedback treatment.
I have saved your link and will update you from time to time.
Hey Jeff,
That’s great to hear! Agree with you on wanting to start with the guidance of a neurofeedback pro. Luckily, this system makes it easy and effective to train just by following the on-screen and audio prompts. As I’ve progressed further, some of the novelty of it has worn off. It doesn’t quite feel like a game now. BUT, I still love the way I feel afterward and the long-term progress I’m experiencing. I’ve been meditating regularly for about ten years, but haven’t noticed the same speed of discernible progress as I have with Sensai.
Hope you experience something similar and looking forward to your updates here!
Nick
I re-read your review after a few weeks of experiencing the SensAI headset. I am a novice in that I am age 60, on the wrong side of the digital divide so most of this is not native to me. I am not typically a technology early adopter, and just got home internet in 2020 and smart device in 2021, despite spending an excess of eight hours/day on the computer for work. So I am a good comparison for users unfamiliar with devices, apps, gadgetry and their physical inter-workings. As mentioned, I am also a novice, never having meditated and being fairly rigid type A in nature and habit.
After using the SensAI headset for a few weeks, re-reading your review helped me better understand HRV – heart rate variability. Never successfully meditating before, my breathe in breathe out was deliberate and exaggerated (funny – like a cartoon of the new rich for mediation). Your explanation of HRV as one’s personalized natural rhythm allowed me to immediately improve this performance metric. The app gives tips, so I stopped the deep mouth breathing previously with improvements then as well, but knowing what the measurements are trying to do helps me attain the targets. I am going to describe this as the level set of how I am naturally with what the device is measuring. Improvements in my scores at this stage for HRV may not be improvements in my natural performance, merely my improved alignment with the device. I mention this as users experiencing many new interactions (device, app, meditation) might not be self-aware of some aspects where they can better manage their interface experience for the positive rewards of this system.
Most importantly, I am getting noticeable results from the training and boost sessions. I have had the device for about three weeks, so it is impossible to assess long term trends at this stage. Results can be immediate. After doing Boost, Snooze and going to bed, the darkness was like seeing black in three dimension, vivid, and every touch to my skin’s surface was fully alive but immediately falling asleep – the intensity wore off after the first few sessions, but it was a pleasant surprise. Chill Sessions result in amazing dreams that night, and most of the time in recent years, I had been disconnected from my dream space, so this is a welcome return to creativity common when I was younger. Social Sessions tap into gamma brainwave higher frequencies. I was not sure what to expect with this Social boost session, and it remains difficult for me to describe its effects. So far, Social Session holds the most interesting promise for me in the use of the device. Perhaps the best way to describe it at this stage is it moderates my aggression and plugs in my cognitive strengths into the emotional aspects of communicating with others. It is noticeable to me, I am not sure if it is noticeable to others. As mentioned, I am a fan of Sebern Fisher’s book on neurofeedback and having only a superficial understanding, it would seem to make sense that this is regulating my amygdala function as I tend to otherwise flood with emotion – if this is the case, it is remarkable for a home device at this price point, and quite honestly the basis of my main motivation to try the SensAI device. Prepare, Expand and Drive Boost sessions are native areas of excellence for me, so although I notice these sessions, for me these session effects are minor and alone would not be a reason for me to get the device. I will likely visit those sessions much less often.
I initially had difficulties securing signal, as you mentioned. For my Training and Boost, after a few app updates in the first week, my signal secures almost immediately everytime for the past two weeks. In the first week, it took a great deal of patience, and knowing I was not tech-savvy, I was committed to the investment of time to try and make it work. However, when it comes to the GeniusPulse plug in device for assessing, which is necessary to access the training sessions above Calm Heart, the meditation sessions and missions, I can now get through to completion of the warm up that tells me the GeniusPulse device is functional, but I still have never been able to complete a full assessment, so I remain unable to access missions, meditation and high levels of training. It may be that an app update in the future enables this signal connectivity better with the Genius Pulse plug in, the way it did for my basic device connectivity to the app.
My follow up questions for you, if you can answer:
1) can you give a walk through of how long the GeniusPulse assessment actually takes, break down the assessment if there are more than one aspect, tips on how to prevent jiggling/movement as it seams very sensitive to hand, body and eye movement? If I knew I were getting close before it gives me an “X” telling me the signal fails, that would be helpful.
2) when I secure my signal, I must first secure the signal and then plug in my GeniusPulse. This allows me to successfully complete the warm up. It also allows me to start the actual assessment. It then inevitably gives me an “X” and tells me to reestablish the signal. I then take the GeniusPulse out of my headset and reestablish a signal, and then re-insert the GeniusPulse plug back into the headset. I have never been able to reach completion of the full assessment, thereby limiting me away from the Meditation, Missions, and higher Training. If I try to establish the signal for GeniusPulse while plugged into my headset, the EEG sensors settle in to 24 or less each, often single digits and never allow for signal connection. The plug in has a distinct 100% correlation for adverse impact for my signal, everytime. Do you keep your GeniusPulse unplugged from your headset while you establish signal, and then plug it in just before starting your warm up and assessment, or does it work for you without being unplugged from the headset? This is the one remaining area that requires patience on my part, and to date I have remained unsuccessful.
3) Your review mentions Train is the bread and butter of the system. Do boost sessions provide medical grade neurofeedback, or are the Boost sessions something materially different than the experience I would receive under Mission, Meditation, and higher levels of Train? What am I missing, not having mission, meditation and higher levels of training.
4) I have completed each of the Boost sessions available and all indicate my frequency is within the expected operable range, so I think the GeniusPulse is app/mechanical driven, not linked to my on brainwave frequencies.
Jeff, really love all your review updates and am FINALLY getting through them! I think you’ve already answered your own questions by now. But I’ll add my $0.02.
1) GeniusPulse assessments take me about 12 minutes, including the test itself and the mini questionnaire. To prevent jiggling, I put a big pillow in my lap and place my elbows on that. With my back straight against a wall.
2) That seems like a potential bug. It should NOT be that sensitive. Was/is your app and firmware completely up to date? I haven’t had that issue at all. But yeah, I plug my GeniusPulse in before establishing the signal at all.
3) Boost sessions are not technically neurofeedback, as far as I know. They’re a different modality altogether (but still useful). Personally, I wouldn’t just use boost without train, but you could do the opposite (train without boost).
Thrilled to say this morning, I completed my first assessment using the GeniusPulse plug in. It was concerning that the GeniusPulse assessment consistently did not work for me in the first month due to continued ongoing signal failure, as many SensAI features can not be accessed without a users first assessment being completed. Now that the other features: Missions, Meditations, higher level Training are accessible, I am looking forward to checking out all features.
These tips might help other users. The app directs me to plug in the GeniusPulse early into the Assessment process. We I plug in the GeniusPulse to my headset, the heart rate monitor signal is fine at 100%, but the three EEG’s tap out in the red sometimes as low as 7, 15 or 45, but never do I get to 100%, even this morning after I had been able to complete my first assessment and tried a second time just to test the limitations. So instead, I wait until the point where my device screen prompts me to initialize my signal, and after I have signal, I then plug the GeniusPulse into my headset.
Over the past month, I had been able to complete the GeniusPulse assessment warm-up about a dozen times, but never able to finish the actual full assessment. (great to know the underlying device and connection worked). I started to explore and realize that despite losing my signal during the full assessment, I could re-initialize the signal during the assessment, always having to first unplug the GeniusPulse each time from the headset. Honestly, I was skeptical this morning, but after about 10 to 15 re-initializing of the signal during the same protracted assessment, I got the simple check mark on the GeniusPulse screen (indicating the assessment was complete). Then there were three questions, the first being whether the signal had been interrupted, so the solutions architect is anticipating this as a common occurrence.
I consider this device amazing technology, so I have wide tolerance to work through these delays to enjoy the benefits. It would have been comforting to me to have visibility into how to navigate the assessment process, eg how many total clicks/%completed. It would be great to provide shortened assessments, in Parts/Phases that can be completed in separate sessions. In the past 30 days, I spent a lot of hours trying to get over this “assessment” threshold. Now that I am over the threshold with one completed full assessment, I have full access to all features (excluding measurement/progress comparison across future assessments – which is far less important to me than the experience and results I feel). Maybe when I revisit it in a few weeks, it will have improved signal capabilities, as did the app on my device for my headset after the first week. For now, the GeniusPulse feels like the only thing requiring workable effort to be navigated around for the entire solution. I was careful to not shake the GeniusPulse, using only my thumbs (as directed), and controlling eye movement in what felt a little unnatural. This slowed my responses down, to ensure I got to complete my first assessment, and so I did succeed. Not sure my slower response times is an accurate measure of my true response, and if/how that feeds into assessment comparisons for showing progress.
I am experiencing positive effects using SensAI. I do not know if the positive effects are sustainable, will become permanently positive, or how deep the effects are, but one month in, I remain positively intrigued and do not regret my purchase. To consider the overall purchase to be worthwhile, I do want, hope, and believe it will do more than what my first month’s experience has been using only the “Calm Heart” training and Boost sessions.
Jeff, while I’m glad to hear that you had completely your first assessment, it should NOT be that hard! I really hope you talked to their support and let them know of this issue! When I reported it, I was the first (and at the time, only one to do so). They’ve since fixed it, luckily.
Fingers crossed that your next reviews that I’ll read will not only continue the beneficial streak, but improve dramatically!
Wow! As an experience unfolding, I am not disappointed. Does it sustain, and where will it take me are the only unknowns. Never having thought I had meditated before, when I plugged Freedom of Spaciousness Meditation into Social Boost – Wow! It was transformative. Experiencing this, I recall a woman who provided me massage therapy, and she did bring in elements of meditation, but until this, I never registered it as such.
Sens.AI organization recommends for one to journal their thoughts, emotions and experiences as they occur while training. This is not a listed medical device, but it is a very powerful tool. I like old school reference points, so I share three book references for users to impress upon them the benefits of journaling their experience, and where available if you have a trusted mental health professional (ideally one familiar with neurofeedback) who can witness and support your growth in person (consider the adverse implications of expanded still face tests for remote computer screen eye contact in treating developmental trauma in light of Alan Schore’s work on affect regulation). I see this device as a wonderful tool to support healthy change.
The first two books are mother/son publications, somewhat dated but intergenerational trauma laid bare for two published mental health providers: Alice and Martin Miller, The Drama of the Gifted Child and the True Drama of the Gifted Child. Martin’s work does a nice job of succinctly detailing the shift brought about by his famous mother’s work from narrow Freudian lenses, to now describing a therapist’s role as including being an enlightened witness to the client’s autonomous reconstruction of their own biographical story told through their feelings and understanding of the experiences. The third book is a phenomenal cross over from the field of psychology into neurobiology. Sebern Fisher’s (life long clinical psychologist) Neurofeedback in the Treatment of Developmental Trauma (Calming the Fear Driven Brain) suggests it is possible that psychology is the support to neurological brain health instead of neurofeedback as a tool to psychology. I suggest a reader feels the painstaking old school efforts of Martin to make sense of and tell his autobiographical story, and you sense how painful it is for him to unwrap every aspect of his experience. By contrast, Sebern Fisher’s book suggests beyond traditional work of psychology and meditation (both important foundations upon which to build), the end result of healthy brainwave patterning might be quickly achieved through a few weeks of properly supported neurofeedback. By training one’s brain waves to pattern healthy non-traumatized brains, in a short amount of time, the brain can adopt those stable non-trauma related patterns as its baseline. Mind and brain health coming together in unison, at this price point, remotely accessible to those of us outside large urban centres (availability of qualified in person professionals) with limited budgets providing the complex device/app technology and mind/brain science underlying the programs, SensAI appears to be a real game changer (despite not being a medical device).
I had been hovering around Level 1 for 30 days, as I had not been able to navigate the Assessment through to completion. In three days, I have jumped to Level 5, and there are additional sessions (as per the SensAI website) that I have not yet been able to access, so lots of room for growth. I have not jumped faster because I am in no rush, and Sebern Fisher does indicate some early neurofeedback devices operating in the higher brain wave frequencies can rewire your brain and lower your IQ (if you have a high IQ) if not properly regulated – so far, no sign of that in my limited experience, and I have some naive trust in the SensAI team backing the solution.
One suggestion for future advance designs – it seems the solution pulls you/your brain to musical sounds or visual images as a reward based system. Pure speculation on my part, but if the enhancements of added musical tones could become more sophisticated, eg. think of commonly known classical music pieces where the add on orchestral instruments get added as your access different brainwaves, or synchronize the front/back of your brain, so you know what to expect as possible – this added push from the user may or may not link to the underlying science but I would enjoy that as a more complex musical (audio) experience – it would be so easy to tune into and stay with time and time again.
I am just over four weeks in after unlocking the higher functioning Training, Boosts and Missions that come with completing one’s first Assessment using the GeniusPulse. The only reservations I have for the system is the GeniusPulse signal drop during Assessments. It is worth the effort to work beyond those limitations. I experience this as leading edge affordable complex technology, accessible to basic entry level users everywhere – I am blown away – but the GeniusPulse is the one rough corner.
After my first week of successfully unlocking the higher level functions (one month in), I got a friend to sign up, sharing my headset. Last Saturday (two weeks in), he ordered his own Sens.AI headset due to arrive today (five business days later) and he will share with his family the three licenses that come with it as part of Black Friday, seamlessly continuing his license from my headset onto his own headset. Clearly I am sold on the product. I will explain why.
My first month, I will describe as a bit of a dud, because I did not understand how to complete the Assessment due to frequent signal drop (up to 10 to 15 drops for me on each of the three Assessments I have done, and the second of two for my friend – worse for his first assessment which was closer to 20 signal drops – honestly frustrating if you don’t know it will work in the end). My friend signaled up immediately first session for his first Calm Heart Training and completed that seamlessly and on the second session he and I worked to complete his first Assessment – that was key for him jumping right in where I had languished for a full month. What I am saying, is the importance of completing your first Assessment can not be underestimated. My friend and I each scored very differently on the Assessment and his first score was much lower than mine, but his second matched mine. One key to performance for the Assessment is to understand on the GeniusPulse, there are five arrows or duds on each screen image. The tester should only focus on the direction (or dud/no direction) of the centre character. For my friend’s first assessment, he tried to assess alignment across all five characters, greatly reducing his score. I explained this as an important failure in his first test, so he aced the second test, over doubling his score. His Assessment pointed him to a different Mission than my Assessment. Despite potential weak correlation of brain function and the mechanical part of the test, I do sense his Mission is better suited to him, and my Mission better suited to me.
At the end of my Mission, and end of my third Assessment, I was recommended to reperform my same mission, which I am now doing. This would not have been my first choice, so I experimented with a few other Boosts, Training, Meditations to get a sense of expanding options (more choices become available the more you train) – which are rich and diverse. But after about three to four days I see and feel the value of returning to my first recommended Mission.
I will compare options/choice to something I read for travelling to Hong Kong (an Asian city with a type of European alignment). If you jump into the culture as a tourist after several days, it can become overwhelming as you may not be immediately processing everything that is going on in the relationships, and there are distinct and sustainable differences that one needs to understand and internalize for success. I feel the same for my limited use to date of SensAI – which tells me it is not just doing something, but appears to be working to specific ends. For example, SensAI emphasizes ME, WE, and then ALL as phased approaches in brain training. I have definite curiosity which over the past three days, I have dabbled without structure of recommendations and to see the increasing opportunity in what is available. Its like reading ahead to do the lesson plans you like, but recommendations offered point you to foundation training you need. The SensAI system says it takes about 8 weeks of training to sustain change. The gains I have made in three weeks are so noticeable and seamless, I take for granted they are in place and sustainable. However, the more I reach for on my wish list of training, boosts, and mediation, the further I stretch from the recommended personalized foundation training – and at four weeks only, with a three day gap from structured recommendations it starts to show through. I feel no sense of addiction, just an awareness that without the training support in the recommended Mission, my old natural default settings seam to resurface. I have restarted the same Mission and the reopening gap closed immediately.
I am not in a rush, and have nothing to prove with this system. It hits all the bells in terms of pricing and supply chain/delivery. It does something and that something is definitely positive and cumulative. Will it be self-sustaining after 8 weeks – I hope so.
I have a friend in scientific research (phytochemist, not neurobiology), and he recommended that I limit my use of the headset and insert outdoor forest walks between sets. The SensAI solution allows a person to stack in Training, Boosts, Meditations, and Missions which is great, but I had experienced a heat sensation in the top of my head that is deeper than mere skin level. The transcranial photo-biomodulation (tPMB) is well studied in animals and humans with no significant adverse side affects listed. That said, this device is not tested as medical aid device in Canada or the USA, so moderation is important. If I feel a heating sensation, I stop the session, which the system asks me to confirm, and then provides the session score. The effect of tPBM is to generate blood flow in the brain, penetrating below the skull. tPBM is also known as cold lasers/infrared light – not to cause concern, but to keep people fully informed. The other medical proven benefit of tPBM occurs as the cellular mitochondrial level, and stimulates production of ATP and substance that helps in the replacement of cell tissue, sometimes lacking more often in older brains. I am 58 years old – maybe the heat effect is different depending on brain age and condition, or hours of use of the headset/exposure to tPBM. My mediation boost reminded me of mediations training a massage therapist provided me 15 years ago. I had the same heat affect during those sessions and it has been an aspect of deep concentrated thought throughout my adult life – but this headset triggers it reliably, so I take a break when I hit that level.
I personally knew two test subjects for the 2nd generation ssri’s clinical trials in early 2000’s, both of whom experienced immediate adverse symptoms throughout the clinical trials. Aside from being aware of the heat at the top of my head that stops immediately upon ending the session, I experience no other immediate or following adverse symptoms when this occurs. I read 8% of people do not benefit from meditation – I do benefit, but for some individuals with anxiety, PTSD and trouble sleeping please be mindful of this.
Using the SensAI solution I do experience a calming, reduction in hypervigilant thoughts, increased focus, better affect regulation with old friends that bring their own mix of issues into my daily experiences. I seamlessly stepped into greater appreciation of what I like in people and set clear boundaries for what I do not welcome from those same people, and calmer nerves to navigate those discussions to improve my relationships – words and emotions collide less so my thoughts get out more effectively. Part of this is focus and attention, part of it is the newness of the experience. A part is definitely new and related to my stimulated brain wave activity. Not sure what ultimate balance gets struck, but it is part of what interests me with this solution.
Meditation does exist within SensAI, but part of the experience is older than meditation, known as cyclic breathing. The recommendation to breathe in and out through the nose is less effective for me. I breathe in through my nose and out through my mouth, a recommendation from Sebern Fisher, as the warm breath out the mouth allows the amygdala to better cool through the continuous cycle of cooler intake fresh air through the sinuses. I can not exaggerate how visible or audible the immediate and continuous results are for me real-time live during my sessions. Not everyone may experience the same effect.
Again, more great observations! Thanks for sharing your experiences. I should have included more info about the GeniusPulse brain quantification module. I didn’t realize that it actually significantly impacts your mission choice, though.
Your experience is kinda how I feel about this training and meditation in general. I really notice the MAJOR differences when I start going a day, two, or three without it.
Stacking other things like forest bathing/nature therapy with your training can’t hurt. I personally do that too.
Coherence breathing has the same effect on me too… not quite instant but damn near it!
How is your training currently going? Are you still doing the same Mission, or did you change? Have you been using an even mix of all modes, or just Train/Boost?
Cheers,
Nick
Some great insights, Jeff! “Sebern Fisher does indicate some early neurofeedback devices operating in the higher brain wave frequencies can rewire your brain and lower your IQ (if you have a high IQ) if not properly regulated”, makes sense why the team is so meticulous about training sequencing.
I like your idea about matching the music to well-known songs. Would make determining our current ability vs the potential easier to grasp!
Solid review, Nick. An exciting product released by the sens.ai team.
The brainwaves corresponding to minerals you mentioned doesn’t match their marketing. According to their oscillation images: cognizium is gamma (seemingly correct), resilium is beta (actually alpha?) and transcendium is alpha (actually theta?). What is harmonium and where is beta SMR?
Hey Joe! Thanks for that. I do agree about the attention to detail (especially for a company dedicated to brain training!).
From what I understand, a lot of the brain training brands are multiple bands rather than just one (say gamma). I haven’t unlocked harmonium yet, so I’m not positive about that one.
Where did you see those graphics? It’s possible that I am wrong (I jotted these down as I was getting started).
Thanks for the comprehensive review. I wasn’t able to complete my assessment yet and was a bit frustrated with trying to get it to read the sensors. I will see if moving away to another position helps as you mentioned regarding the signal.
I am using Mendi. Much faster and quicker to deploy. Sens.ai is a beast in comparison. Huge – and I have a big head.
Thanks.
Hey there! Are you referring to the initial GeniusPulse assessment? The other thing to try is to add a lot more water to the sensors. That really helped me.
How would the sens.a.i compare to the muse? Any knowledge in that area? I’ve been comparing the two. The availability of the sens.A.I. is often delayed but looks like a very interesting device.
Hey Lisa! Great question. They are quite different systems. Sens.ai is more of a full brain training suite (HRV biofeedback, Neurofeedback, brain assessment, neuro stimulation, etc). Muse is mostly for simple brain training. If you’re on a budget and know exactly what you’re doing, how to sequence your training, etc. then Muse may make sense. Most of the people I know with the Muse don’t end up using it for long. Sens.ai is better for most people. They’ve been working on the tech for 5 years and only recently (in the last month or so) started shipping devices to the public.
Hope that helps!
Nick
Yes, I think there is potential to this system, but you’ve overstated things at the beginning of the article. I taught Neurofeedback and biofeedback at San Francisco State University. No one charges $2,000 for a session of Neurofeedback, as you stated at the beginning of your article. A typical fee for a session of Neurofeedback is about $140, depending on where (what area of the country) you are getting the training.
Hi Erik,
Thanks for the comment and pointing that out! You’re right that $2,000 is slightly unrealistic. You can certainly find it cheaper. 40 Years of Zen, however, charges $1,500 per day. I believe their minimum is a package of $6,000 too. And I know some people that have spent more. Either way, going into a clinic has definite pros and cons.
Erik! I took your classes at sfsu in the late 80s! So wild to see your comment here!! I started neuroptimal at my therapy clinic to manage symptoms of fatigue and anxiety related to long covid and it has been great! But due to staff changes at the clinic I’m now thinking of getting an at home unit.
This comprehensive review didn’t touch on the mental health aspects. Neuroptimal is so expensive. Still researching. So great to see your name!! Lisa Peterson
Lisa, when you said “This comprehensive review didn’t touch on the mental health aspects”, have you seen my review of the health benefits of brain training? That ones more focused on the science and uses. This was meant more as a review of the platform itself.
Hi can two people use the same headset and if so, how does receiving the data for each person work? Also, we live in Australia how long to receiving the product?
Hey Angela! Not sure I ever responded to your message. Many people CAN share the same headset, they just need different accounts. Hmm, that’s a good question. Their support team would probably be better suited to answer shipping questions.
Hi Nick, I received my headset about three weeks ago. I found your review because I was searching for more comprehensive information on the product. I am an old school guy who is use to studying a manual. New school is bumble along and read a few FAQs. You have written an excellent review and it has given me much of the overview I was looking for. I would still like to see a diagram break-down of the device itself (e.g. sensor and light placement). As far as usage, it has been slow but steady with just enough rewards to keep me training. The sensors have been quite challenging for me. I do not think I have ever gotten a clean set of signals in just a couple of minutes. To add insult to injury, one of the delicate sensors actually fell out of the headset for no apparent reason. Turns out, support advised that I could just stick it back in and twist it a quarter turn. I am still finding the sensors quite temperamental. On the App side, I wish they would give us the ability to de-couple some of those five functions. For example, If I want to go sound asleep, just blast me with delta waves and don’t bother to try to measure anything. Also, like you, I find navigating all of the training missions a bit confusing.
All in all, though, I am very happy having this sens.ai advanced technology at my disposal.
Thanks, Doug! I agree, that’d be nice. You can actually see the sensors and LEDs with your naked eye. The sensors are the 3, gold, mesh sponges lining the middle of the headset. If you look closely, the LEDs are small, clear protrusions on both sides and down the middle too. Optimal placement, however, isn’t the most intuitive and takes some experimentation.
I know what you mean about getting clear signals. Have you tried going to a clean environment (no wireless devices like BlueTooth, WiFi, printers, tablets, etc)? And adding a little extra water really helped me. Also, I don’t know how long your hair is, but I always brush clear a space around my right ear so that the earcup fits flush to my skin. That also helped me.
As you (and I) discovered, the sensors are designed with the option of eventual replacements/cleaning in mind. It’s okay if they come out, just twist them back into place.
Totally agree with you on de-coupling those functions! Training is great and powerful, but sometimes I just want to be passive.
Glad you’re liking it so far!
Nick
Hi Nick, I’ve been behind on ordering a device Sens.ai for a few months now, so thanks a lot for your excellent review. One of my doubts about the possibilities of Sens.ai is if it is possible to measure independently, I mean outside of gamification, the state of the default neural network, the executive network and the salience network, on their website they say that can be measured, but I have not found anywhere if it is really possible to measure them by doing some activity like meditating. Can you confirm it for me? It is the last question before placing the order, which of course I will do with your code! Thanks a lot for sharing your experiences, they are a magnificent source of information, both for those of us who are professionals as well as for all those who are passionate about health!!
Hey Ricardo!
Thanks for that. Hmm that would be difficult to measure. You can get a proxy of the functional outcome (reaction speed, accuracy, etc) from the GeniusPulse assessment. But I don’t think you can (currently) measure that objectively with Sensai. Plus, the brain function assessment via GeniusPulse requires you to play their “game” to get your scores, unfortunately.
Their Support team might have more details or workarounds to accomplish that though!
I appreciate your comment!
Nick