[Denver, CO] – October 9, 2024 – Lumena, Inc. has successfully completed its Phase I Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) study which was awarded this year by AFWERX.

This study has advanced Lumena’s cutting-edge MindGym stroboscopic technology to combat stress and burnout among Active Duty Air Force operators. MindGym is now able to offer immediate therapeutic effects by using stroboscopic light to stimulate the optic nerve at the frequency of the brain wave we entrain. This technology significantly improves mental resilience, stress reduction, and operational readiness by entraining a more Theta or Alpha wave dominant brain state.

The study, conducted with participants experiencing high levels of stress and burnout, explored both alpha and theta stroboscopic interventions. Key outcomes include:

  • Notable stress reduction: Both groups demonstrated increased theta/beta ratios, a key indicator of reduced stress, while maintaining cognitive function.
  • Enhanced mental well-being: Both groups exhibited major reductions in anxiety and mood disturbances, with the theta group reporting an enhanced sense of purpose and overall psychological improvement.
  • “Alert relaxation”: The alpha group experienced deep relaxation paired with heightened mental clarity and focus, critical for maintaining readiness in high-pressure situations.

“Our findings confirm that stroboscopic interventions not only reduce stress but also maintain mental clarity and readiness,” said Pamela Glick, CEO of Lumena, Inc. “This study sets the stage for more personalized and scalable therapeutic interventions in the near future.”

Lumena partnered with the Institute for Advanced Consciousness Studies (IACS) for the study design and execution. IACS was responsible for securing IRB approval, recruiting participants, and conducting both behavioral and neurophysiological research in its state-of-the-art facilities. Their expertise was key in analyzing the study’s results, providing the insight needed to validate the effectiveness of MindGym technology.

With Phase I now complete, Lumena is preparing for Phase II, which will integrate AI, machine learning, and predictive analytics to further personalize interventions. This next phase will optimize the technology’s impact and support its seamless integration into Department of the Air Force (DAF) and joint operations, enhancing military personnel’s resilience and readiness.

The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Air Force, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. government. 

About Lumena, Inc.

Lumena, Inc. develops innovative neurocognitive training solutions, including MindGym, to help individuals and teams unlock their full potential. Focusing on resilience, performance, and mental health, Lumena’s technologies are used by organizations to prepare personnel for complex challenges and critical missions. www.LumenaLabs.com

About IACS

IACS is dedicated to pioneering research and solutions in consciousness and cognitive science. Through cutting-edge behavioral and neurophysiological studies, IACS explores the intersection of mind, brain, and performance, with a mission to apply its findings to enhance human potential across various sectors, including military and defense.  www.advancedconsciousness.org

About AFWERX

As the innovation arm of the DAF and a directorate within the Air Force Research Laboratory, AFWERX brings cutting-edge American ingenuity from small businesses and start-ups to address the most pressing challenges of the DAF.  AFWERX employs approximately 325 military, civilian and contractor personnel at six hubs and sites executing an annual $1.4 billion budget. Since 2019, AFWERX has executed 4,697 contracts worth more than $2.6 billion to strengthen the U.S. defense industrial base and drive faster technology transition to operational capability. www.afwerx.com

RESULTS
  • Notable stress reduction: Both groups demonstrated increased theta/beta ratios, a key indicator of reduced stress, while maintaining cognitive function.
  • Enhanced mental well-being: Both groups exhibited major reductions in anxiety and mood disturbances, with the theta group reporting an enhanced sense of purpose and overall psychological improvement.
  • “Alert relaxation”: The alpha group experienced deep relaxation paired with heightened mental clarity and focus, critical for maintaining readiness in high-pressure situations.
“This study sets the stage for more personalized and scalable therapeutic interventions in the near future.”

– Pamela Glick, CEO, Lumena, Inc.