Breathing is the ultimate nootropic!

Do you remember the movie “Limitless,” where Bradley Cooper portrayed an author grappling with creativity and life’s challenges? His downward spiral took an unexpected turn when he discovered a pill that supposedly unlocked the full potential of the brain.

As he began taking the pill, he transformed into a superhuman – capable of multitasking, predicting the future, and achieving remarkable feats. I watched that movie and thought, “I want that pill!”

Later, I stumbled upon the world of nootropics, likely popularized by the movie. These pills promised improved brain power, mood enhancement, and accelerated learning when consumed. I tried a few myself, and initially, they seemed effective. Yet, over time, their impact diminished, pushing me towards a scenario reminiscent of the movie’s protagonist – needing more for the same kick, inching toward addiction.

This trajectory didn’t resonate with me. Becoming reliant on pills for heightened performance seemed counterproductive. I firmly believe in the untapped potential within us, but I also believe there must be a natural way to unlock it.

External triggers like drugs or substances can lead us to desired states, yet there has to be a better path, one that doesn’t rely on chemical substances. These pills essentially induce the secretion of certain substances in the brain, which indicates that our brains already possess the capability; we just need to learn how to activate it.

To harness this potential, two steps are crucial. Firstly, we must identify and name the desired states of being – deep focus, clarity, presence, and more. Secondly, each of us inherently possesses the hardware to enter these states without external aid.

Consider the diverse emotional and breathing patterns tied to each state. Breathing is a key that can unlock these states. By controlling our breath, we can guide our mind and body into these desired conditions. No pills needed.

Take the movie’s protagonist, for example. He experienced clarity after diving into water, presence in social situations, and deep focus while writing and investing. These states are distinct and cannot all be activated simultaneously, though clarity may influence focus.

When practicing these states without external stimulants, the dynamic shifts. Frequent practice enhances your ability to enter and sustain the state. It’s akin to training a muscle.

States of Being and How to Access Them

State of Clarity or Presence:

  • Engage in deep, slow breathing, inhaling and exhaling through your nose.
  • Focus on your breath, aiming for a longer exhale than inhale.
  • Practice while sitting or walking.
  • Example: Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 2 seconds, exhale for at least 6 seconds (adjust over time), hold for 2 seconds, and repeat. Set a 10-minute timer.

State of Focus:

  • Ideal in the morning, knowing your plan from the night before.
  • Incorporate physical activity, such as jogging, stretching, or a light full-body workout.
  • Eliminate distractions, like smartphones or others.
  • Concentrate on one task for a defined duration.

Remember, you’re an extraordinary being. The ceaseless chemical, physical, electrical, and biological reactions within you are beyond comprehension. Embrace education, experimentation, and personalization to tap into your extraordinary potential.

In the grand tapestry of life, you are a vibrant thread, capable of weaving your own masterpiece. Your power to evolve and enhance your reality lies within your grasp.

Jay Bialecki – You are awesome!