MosesSamPaul

Posted on Dec 21, 2023Read on Mirror.xyz

Andrew Huberman's Guide to Optimized Living: A Journey in Wellbeing | GratitudeSeries 50/60

From the very first episode of Andrew Huberman's podcast, I knew I had stumbled upon something transformative. As a neuroscientist and professor at Stanford, Huberman's insights into the brain's functioning have reshaped my understanding of wellbeing. His approach is not just about scientific facts; it’s a practical guide to living a better life.

"Most everyone that delays caffeine intake to 90-120min post waking experiences increased mood and energy," Huberman says​​. This simple yet profound advice led me to restructure my morning routine. Now, my day starts with direct sunlight exposure, followed by a delayed caffeine intake, setting the tone for a day full of energy and focus.

The impact of Huberman’s teachings on my life is profound. His emphasis on neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to change and adapt, resonates deeply with my own journey in crafting the Wellbeing Protocol. "The human species was given this tremendous gift of neuroplasticity," Huberman explains​​. This concept has been a guiding light in developing protocols that prioritize mental agility and adaptability.

Huberman's discussions on play and its role in enhancing neuroplasticity have been particularly influential. "We can use play as a means to enhance neuroplasticity and explore novel situations, regardless of age," he remarks​​. This insight inspired me to incorporate elements of play and exploration into my daily life, reinforcing the idea that learning and growth can be fun and invigorating.

Perhaps the most transformative aspect has been his insights on gratitude. "Gratitude sounds like complacency, but serotonin resets dopamine, which puts you back in the fight and allows you to fight longer and further," he notes​​. This understanding has led me to integrate gratitude practices into my daily routine, significantly enhancing my resilience and motivation.

Huberman’s focus on positive thinking as a tool for internal control and shaping one’s environment is another cornerstone of my wellbeing journey​​. His teachings have taught me that our internal narratives powerfully influence our external experiences and that by cultivating positive, constructive thoughts, we can profoundly impact our lives.

Following Huberman's protocols, from intermittent fasting to cold showers, has not just been about physical health. It's about leveraging our body's innate mechanisms to achieve a state of wellbeing that permeates every aspect of life. His statement, "If you’re focusing on how someone else is failing, what’s wrong with X, Y, or Z, you’re wasting valuable neural real estate," has been a constant reminder to focus my energies constructively​​.

In conclusion, Andrew Huberman's work has been a revelation. His podcasts and insights have provided a blueprint for living a life that is not just healthy in a physical sense but also rich in mental and emotional wellbeing. The journey of implementing his advice has been nothing short of transformative, and for that, I am eternally grateful.

To delve deeper into the science of wellbeing and how it can revolutionize your life, visit The Wellbeing Protocol.

Some of my favorite quotes

  • "We can use play as a means to enhance neuroplasticity and explore novel situations, regardless of age." - Andrew Huberman​

  • "Gratitude sounds like complacency, but serotonin resets dopamine, which puts you back in the fight and allows you to fight longer and further." - Andrew Huberman​​.

  • "The human species was given this tremendous gift of neuroplasticity." - Andrew Huberman​​.

  • "If you’re focusing on how someone else is failing, what’s wrong with X, Y, or Z, you’re wasting valuable neural real estate." - Andrew Huberman​​.

  • "Neuroplasticity has two parts. One is the trigger. In adults, it is triggered by focus and attention and even a heightened state of agitation. The second part is deep relaxation. That’s when the connections between neurons called synapses actually get stronger." - Andrew Huberman​