Lt. Col. Derek Cumbie putting on headphones to enter the Lumena MindGym

Lt. Col. Derek Cumbie putting on headphones to enter the Lumena MindGym in the Air University Library at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama, January 19, 2024. The MindGym creates a sensory deprivation, bio-responsive mindfulness environment, providing those with base access an additional tool to build resiliency and improve mental health. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Tyrique Barquet)

Air University Library staff cut the ribbon unveiling the new Lumena MindGym

Air University Library staff cut the ribbon unveiling the new Lumena MindGym here at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama, January 19, 2024. The MindGym creates a sensory deprivation, bio-responsive mindfulness environment, providing those with base access an additional tool to build resiliency and improve mental health. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Tyrique Barquet)

Brainwave equipment used in the Lumena MindGym

Lt. Col. Derek Cumbie, handing over brainwave equipment used in the Lumena MindGym in the Air University Library at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama, January 19, 2024. The MindGym creates a sensory deprivation, bio-responsive mindfulness environment, providing those with base access an additional tool to build resiliency and improve mental health. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Tyrique Barquet)

Air University library unveils MindGym mental well-being tool

Published Jan. 22, 2024
By Airman 1st Class Tyrique Barquet
Air University Public Affairs

MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. --

MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. — The Air University library officially unveiled its Lumena MindGym immersive mental skills and resilience tool with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, Jan. 19, 2024.

MindGym offers sensory deprivation and bio-responsive mindfulness training to anyone with base access.

"As the AU library director and on behalf of the library team, we are excited to introduce MindGym to Maxwell-Gunter,” said Dr. Stephanie Rollins. “Sponsored by AU leadership, AUiX and the library team, this initiative goes beyond traditional library offerings, enhancing skills and promoting resilience. It's a transformative investment in our community's well-being and collective potential.”

MindGym is equipped with ergonomic chairs and helmets that utilize electroencephalogram, or EEG, technology to monitor physiological indicators, including electrical brain waves, heart rate, respiration rate and heart variability.

Guided mindset training sessions, lasting between 10 to 20 minutes, aim to assist users in transitioning their mental state through light and sound, promoting relaxation, inner exploration, and contemplative practices.

“It feels like scuba diving,” said Lt. Col. Derek Cumbie, the first service member at Maxwell to use MindGym. “You’re on a boat, and it’s wild and chaotic, but then you put your scuba gear on and go into the water and all of a sudden everything is peaceful and calm.”

Sessions are divided into segments, addressing peace and relaxation, mental training and performance enhancement. Users can set up profiles at the Air University library and reserve MindGym sessions on its website.

With multiple training and content options, the facility's advanced monitoring capabilities allow for the customization of each session. Tracking vital signs like heart rate, respiratory rate, and brainwaves enables the MindGym to tailor the training experience to the real-time physiological state of individual users, providing a personalized and effective mindfulness journey.

The availability of Lumena MindGym to eligible customers reflects Maxwell’s commitment to holistic well-being and advancements in mindfulness and fitness, said Rollins.