We are often reminded to adopt mindful practices in an attempt to mitigate the stress response and promote optimal health. But the concept can seem lofty and, at times, intimidating. Where do you start? How do you become more mindful? Finally, we hit this topic straight on. Dr. Brad Lichtenstein has dedicated his career to the practice of mind-body medicine, mediation, and mindfulness.

This episode is part one of a two-part interview with Dr. Brad. Today, he discusses the physiology of the stress response (“Fight, Flight, or Freeze”), types of biofeedback, and novel ways to engage and regulate the autonomic nervous system.  

“The goal of measuring biofeedback is to create enough awareness in yourself that you no longer need the devices.”- Dr. Brad Lichtenstein

Today on The Lab Report:

• 4:15 Meet Dr. Brad Lichtenstein and learn about why he focuses on the nervous system
• 7:10 The Polyvagal theory and actively engaging the vagus nerve during stress
• 17:35 The importance of ‘safety’
• 22:55 Biofeedback: what is it, what are the different types, why do we care?
• 28:00 Emotional and physical responses as biofeedback regulation 
• 33:00 Introduction to the concept of mindfulness – teaser!

Additional Resources:

The Breath Space

Dr. Brad's TEDx Talk: Breathing Into Life

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