Nervous System & Focus

Lion's Mane

NOW Foods

The mushroom for cognition and nerve health. Fits the practice: clear head, steady attention, no stimulation.

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Straight talk

If the label says 'mycelial biomass,' you are buying oats. Look for fruiting body and a beta glucan number.

Where it fits

Part of these stacks

For the Qigong immersion

Standing Practice

Calm attention without stimulation. What I reach for on immersion mornings and long sessions on the table.

Same shelf

Also in The Wire

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L-Tyrosine

NOW Foods

Form
Capsule or powder
Dose
500 to 1,000 mg on an empty stomach, before demanding work

Precursor to dopamine and norepinephrine. Supports focus under stress, heat, and short sleep.

Use it on the days that ask a lot. Daily use blunts the effect.

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Rhodiola Rosea

NOW Foods

Form
Standardized to 3% rosavins and 1% salidroside
Dose
200 to 400 mg in the morning

An adaptogen studied for supporting mental stamina and resilience to fatigue. Steadies you rather than lifting you.

Morning only. Late in the day it will keep you up.

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Alpha-GPC

NOW Foods

Form
Capsule, 300 mg
Dose
300 mg before training or focused work

A choline source that supports acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter behind the mind to muscle connection and sustained attention.

Noticeable on heavy skill days. Unnecessary on easy ones.

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