You just unboxed your SereniBrain headband. Now what?
This guide walks you through everything — from first charge to your first real meditation session — and explains what your brainwave data actually means. Whether you're brand new to meditation or a seasoned practitioner, this is your starting point.
What's in the Box
Before you begin, make sure you have:
- SereniBrain EEG headband
- Hydrogel electrode pads (pre-installed)
- USB-C charging cable
- Quick start card
If anything is missing, contact us at support@serenibrain.com.
Step 1: Charge Before First Use
Plug the headband into any USB-C charger and charge fully before your first session. A full charge takes approximately 1.5–2 hours and provides up to 6 hours of use.
The LED indicator will turn solid when fully charged.
Tip: Make charging part of your nightly routine so the headband is always ready in the morning.
Step 2: Download the SereniBrain App
Search "SereniBrain" in the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android) and install the free companion app.
The app is completely free — no subscription required. All features, guided sessions, and your full session history are included with your headband purchase.
Step 3: Pair via Bluetooth
- Turn on the headband by pressing and holding the power button for 2 seconds
- Open the SereniBrain app and tap "Connect Device"
- Select your headband from the list — pairing takes under 30 seconds
Android users: The app will request temporary location permission during Bluetooth pairing. This is a standard Android requirement for Bluetooth connectivity. No location data is stored or retained.
Step 4: Position the Headband Correctly
Proper placement is essential for accurate EEG readings.
- Place the headband across your forehead, with the sensors resting flat against your skin
- The main sensor module should sit centered on your forehead
- Adjust the elastic strap so the fit is snug but comfortable — not tight
- If signal quality is low, press the sensors gently against your skin for a few seconds to improve contact
The hydrogel pads are designed to conform to your forehead naturally. If they feel dry after extended use, a small drop of water on the sensor surface can restore conductivity.
Step 5: Start Your First Session
In the app, choose between:
- Guided Session — Follow audio and visual neurofeedback cues. Recommended for beginners.
- Free Practice — Meditate freely while the app records your brainwave data in real time.
During the session, the app's visuals and sounds respond to your brain activity. When your mind calms and alpha waves increase, the feedback becomes clearer and more rewarding — giving you immediate, tangible confirmation that your meditation is working.
Understanding Your Meditation Score
At the end of each session, you receive a score from 0 to 100.
This score reflects how much time your brain spent in a calm, focused state — measured by alpha and theta wave activity.
| Score Range | What It Means |
|---|---|
| 0–40 | Mind was active or distracted — normal for beginners |
| 40–65 | Moderate calm — you're building the habit |
| 65–80 | Good session — consistent relaxation achieved |
| 80–100 | Deep focus — your brain stayed calm throughout |
Don't stress about a low score. The score is a training tool, not a grade. Consistency matters more than any single number.
How to Improve Your Score Over Time
If You're New to Meditation
Relax, follow the guided audio closely, and accept any physical discomfort without judgment. Don't focus on the score — focus on your breath. Improvement comes naturally with daily practice.
If You Have Some Experience
Try to quiet your mind further during the session. Consciously identify sources of stress or anxiety and let them go. This active release helps extend your concentration span and raises your score over time.
For Experienced Meditators
Expand your awareness beyond the breath to include the flow of thoughts, emotions, and perception. This broader, open awareness can guide you into deeper meditative states that register strongly in your brainwave data.
Eyes Open or Closed?
Both work. Closed eyes let you focus purely on audio feedback. Open eyes allow you to integrate both visual and audio cues simultaneously. Experiment and choose what feels most natural.
The 6 Brainwaves SereniBrain Tracks
SereniBrain monitors six distinct brainwave types, giving you the most complete picture of your mental state available in a consumer EEG device.
Delta (0.5–4 Hz)
Associated with deep sleep and physical restoration. High delta power indicates a very deep, sleep-like relaxation state.
Theta (4–8 Hz)
The gateway to deep relaxation and creativity. Theta rises during light sleep and deep meditation — a strong theta signal means your mind is genuinely quieting.
Alpha (8–13 Hz)
The signature of calm, relaxed wakefulness. Alpha is the dominant wave during meditation — when your alpha power rises, you're in the zone.
Beta (12–30 Hz)
Active thinking, concentration, and alertness. Watching your beta decrease during a session is a direct measure of stress relief.
Gamma (30–100 Hz)
Higher cognitive functions — perception, memory processing, and information integration. Associated with peak mental performance and moments of insight.
SMR (12–15 Hz)
A sub-band within the beta range. SMR rises when the brain is alert while the body is relaxed — the ideal state for focus training and flow.
Caring for Your Headband
- Clean after each use: Wipe the sensors with a slightly damp cloth
- Do not submerge in water — the headband is not waterproof
- Store in the included case when not in use
- Replace gel pads every 3–6 months for optimal signal quality — replacement pads are available at serenibrain.com
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should each session be?
Start with 10–15 minutes. As your practice develops, extend to 20–30 minutes. The app tracks your total training time automatically.
Why is my signal quality low?
Check that the sensors are making firm contact with your forehead. Dry skin or hair between the sensor and skin can reduce signal quality. Press the sensors gently or add a small drop of water to the hydrogel pads.
Can I use SereniBrain without the app?
The headband requires the app to function — it processes your EEG data and delivers real-time feedback. The app is free and always will be.
Is my data private?
Yes. Your raw EEG data never leaves your device. Only your session scores are stored to sync progress across devices.
How often should I practice?
Daily practice produces the best results. Even 10 minutes a day is enough to see measurable improvement in your scores within 2–3 weeks.
Ready to Start?
Your first session doesn't need to be perfect. Put on the headband, open the app, and just breathe.
The data will take care of the rest.