Brain Boost

BrainBoost is a school-based research project investigating how EEG neurofeedback and mindfulness training influence focus, emotional regulation, and stress resilience in high school students.

The study integrates Muse S EEG headband data (alpha, beta, and theta wave patterns) with Apple Watch HRV metrics to analyze how the brain and body react during periods of calmness, attention, and stress.

The goal is to create a personalized neurofeedback framework that uses real-time brainwave data to help students understand and improve their own mental states. 

Research Goals

• Identify EEG frequency patterns (alpha/beta/theta ratios) that correspond to focused attention, relaxation, and stress.

• Correlate EEG signals with HRV data to model the brain–body connection during mindfulness exercises.

• Examine how guided breathing and meditation alter brainwave stability and HRV coherence.

• Design a biofeedback interface that visually reflects focus and calmness levels in real time.

• Develop a school-friendly research framework integrating neuroscience, psychology, and technology for classroom use.

Research Goals

• Conducted EEG recordings using the Muse S headband during guided focus and relaxation tasks.

• Cleaned EEG data to remove motion and blink artifacts, segmenting sessions into labeled focus vs. rest periods.

• Extracted key brainwave features (alpha, beta, theta power ratios) and compared across sessions and participants.

• Integrated HRV data from Apple Watch to assess the synchronization between autonomic and cortical activity.

• Built a prototype dashboard visualizing EEG patterns and HRV trends during neurofeedback sessions.

• Currently analyzing correlation strength between EEG alpha/beta ratios and HRV recovery patterns, preparing results for visualization and reporting.

Ongoing Activity

• Running additional pilot sessions to expand the dataset and validate early EEG-HRV correlations.

• Testing cross-sensor integration models for smoother synchronization between Muse and Apple HealthKit.

• Refining the data visualization dashboard for classroom demonstration and research presentations.

• Collaborating with the AP Psychology department to co-author a student-led research paper.

• Preparing a poster and manuscript submission (2025) to present findings on EEG-based mindfulness interventions at local neuroscience fairs and symposiums.