FAQ's

Welcome to our FAQ section. We're delighted to have you as part of our community. Here, we've addressed the most frequently asked questions to provide you with quick and helpful answers.

General

Below are some of are common questions about general information

How long does the warranty last, and what should I do if I need assistance?

Shiftwave includes one free year of ShiftCare. After the first year, customers can purchase extended ShiftCare coverage. ShiftCare ensures all issues or malfunctions are fully handled.

What is a 'Protocol'?

A protocol is the combination of programmed audio and vibration patterns that you experience in the Shiftwave. The control box contains a number of protocols that offer different types of experiences for the user.

What are the weight and dimensions of Shiftwave?

Dimensions
Depth (closed - in in)
8.7
Depth (open - in in)
35.4 > 68.1
Height (closed - in in)
41.7
Height (open - in in)
35.8 > 49.2
Width (closed - in in)
29.9
Width (open - in in)
29.9

Is Shiftwave FDA-approved?

Shiftwave is not classified as a medical device; it is a Class II Exempt wellness device, meaning it’s approved for general wellness use without needing formal FDA approval. If you have further questions, feel free to contact us!

Can children use Shiftwave?

Absolutely! Shiftwave is safe for kids, and many children love it. The “For Kids” program offers a space-themed experience with age-specific options for ages 6-9 and 9-12. These programs have capped intensity levels, allowing kids to “turn it up all the way” safely at a gentler power. While these are the designated age groups, children as young as three have also enjoyed Shiftwave.

Children can also safely explore other programs, as long as they’re mindful of the intensity setting. We encourage parents to try these programs themselves to get a feel for the experience. If you have any questions or concerns, please consult your family physician.

Is Shiftwave safe to use?

Yes. Shiftwave a safe to use so long as you dont have any of the listed contraindications: unstable angina, epilepsy, detached retina, deep vein thrombosis, and pregnancy. If you have had any heart condition, recent surgery, or any implanted medical devices such as shunts, stents, meshes, venous filters, aneurysm clips, or pacemakers, please consult your medical professional before using Shiftwave.

How portable is Shiftwave, and can I travel with it easily?

Shiftwave comes with a custom-designed travel bag that makes it easy to bring along on your travels, whether by car, train, airplane, or boat. The entire system, including the bag, weighs just under 50 lbs, making it suitable as checked luggage on commercial flights. The bag is built for convenience and durability, so you can take Shiftwave safely wherever you go. Exact dimensions are 42" x 29" x 9".

What does the Shiftwave come with?

Shiftwave comes ready to go with chair, headphones, eyemask, necessary power cables, and control box with the 50+ protocols.

Pricing & Financing

Below are some of are common questions about Pricing & Financing

Do you offer financing?

Yes. We offer 0% APR 24-month financing through Affirm as well as longer term commercial financing options.

What payment methods do you accept?

Credit card, ACH, Wire, Check

Product & Technical Support

Below are some common questions about our Product

What are Shiftwave’s power requirements?

Shiftwave draws approximately 2.13A at 110V AC. For safe and reliable operation, we recommend using a power cord rated for at least 10A. The device is compatible with a voltage range of 90-264V AC, making it suitable for use internationally with the correct power cord.

What is the maximum weight the chair can hold?

The standard weight capacity is 300lbs for normal use. This capacity can be expanded to 350+lbs with the reinforcement option.

What are the best programs for after a workout?

Try Disconap 20 for a quick shift into recovery and Core Recovery for a deep and powerful shift.

How many Protocols are there?

There are currently 40+ protocols available and more released regularly.

Is there a brief description of each protocol to understand what they do and how they differ?

Yes, each Shiftwave includes a protocol selection guide with descriptions of all available protocols. You can also access a digital version [here].

How do I load new Protocols on the Shiftwave?

To load new protocols, download the files from our protocol library and copy them onto the USB drive plugged into Shiftwave’s control box. Ensure you safely eject the USB drive before removing it from your computer. For detailed instructions and access to the protocol library, [click here].

Is my HRV score saved?

No, the score is displayed at the end of the session and will remain until another session starts.

Why is the HRV score from Shiftwave different from the HRV score on my wearable?

Wearable devices typically report HRV from a specific window during sleep, when HRV tends to be at its highest. In contrast, the HRV score from Shiftwave reflects your heart’s ability to dynamically respond to the controlled challenge of a protocol during waking hours. As a result, the Shiftwave HRV score will generally be lower than your sleep-based HRV score from a wearable.

Does HRV score only show at the end of a session?

You can view your current HRV at any time during a session. It will display the the HRV score within the last 5 miniutes. THe HRV score reported at the end of a session in the highest HRV recorded throughout the protocol.

What HRV scores are typical?

The HRV score is the standard deviation of heartbeat intervals over a five-minute window, shown in milliseconds. Shiftwave uses the five-minute window with the highest variation. Scores range from single digits to the high 50s, with most new users starting in the 20s and 30s.

How should I track my HRV score?

Since HRV can fluctuate based on factors like age, fitness, time of day, stress, and hormonal cycles, it’s best to track your score under consistent conditions (same protocol, same time of day) over time. Focus on longer-term trends, as regular use may lead to gradual improvements.

What does my HRV score mean?

Your HRV score at the end of each Shiftwave protocol reflects the balance and resilience of your autonomic nervous system. Generally, a higher HRV indicates a healthier, more adaptive nervous system.

How do I use BioDrive™?

Activate BioDrive™ by placing a finger into the provided pulse-oximeter and pressing the BioDrive™ button on the touch screen of the control box. When BioDrive™ is active the standard vibrational programming is replaced with the heart rate-informed pulsed pressure waves, as dictated by the BioDrive™ algorithm. This transition allows the system to align the vibrations with your immediate physiological state, complementing the music and narrative of your chosen protocol.

What is BioDrive™ and how does it work?

BioDrive™ is an advanced HRV training biofeedback algorithm that enhances autonomic nervous system tone and promotes coherence by mimicking natural heart rate variability patterns. Using real-time heart rate data from the included pulse oximeter, BioDrive™ generates pulsed pressure waves that sync with your heart's natural response to your breath (see 'What is respiratory sinus arrhythmia' for more). With practice, you’ll learn to amplify these pressure waves as you inhale and ease them as you exhale, building resilience and coherence in your nervous system.

How often do I need to use it? How long do the effects last?

For optimal results, we recommend using Shiftwave regularly, ideally daily. However, even using it once or twice a week can significantly help with acute stress, pain, and recovery. The immediate post-session relaxation ('zen') effect lasts for a few minutes as your nervous system readjusts to your environment, but consistent use can lead to lasting improvements in stress management, resilience, and nervous system responsiveness, helping you handle daily challenges more effectively.

Can I fly on an airplane with the chair?

Yes, Shiftwave can be checked in as luggage using the carrying case. We have done it thousands of times!

Science & Technology

Below are some of are common questions about Science and Technology

How does Shiftwave enhance heart rate variability (HRV)?

Shiftwave’s patent-pending technology strengthens the autonomic nervous system (ANS) enhancing a person’s heart rate variability. Using scientifically derived pulsed-pressure-waves Shiftwave drives both sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system activation. Shiftwave’s ability to activate both sides of the ANS leads to improved ANS tone and enhanced HRV. For more information on the relationship between HRV and the ANS we recommend reading this excellent review article.

What is heart rate variability (HRV)?

Heart rate variability (HRV) is a measurement of the tiny variations in time between each heartbeat, reflecting your body's ability to handle stress and adapt to changes. It provides a window into the responsiveness of your autonomic nervous system and overall resilience. Enhanced HRV has been linked to resistance to illness and longevity. Additionally, HRV-based treatment modalities have been used as treatments for a wide range of illnesses including cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, neurological, and psychiatric conditions.

What is Synthetic Sleep?

Synthetic Sleep is a restorative state akin to deep sleep, induced by aligning slow and regular pulsed pressure waves with deep and slow breathing, creating a uniquely high level of psychophysiological coherence. This state, characterized by the synchronization of multiple bodily signals and presence of signals seen only in deep stage sleep, was pioneered at the Shiftwave Institute's advanced psychophysiology research lab, offering a profound level of relaxation and rejuvenation.

Do you have any clinical studies/research?

Shiftwave has conducted research that includes a formal study at Tulane University led by Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Jeff Rouse on its effects on stress and anxiety, autonomic nervous system tone, and brain activity. We've conducted qualitative survey studies in high-stress environments with US Special Forces, Ukrainian combat soldiers and medical staff, and extensive internal research at the Shiftwave Institute's advanced psychophysiological research lab. We're also collaborating with military and academic groups for further clinical studies on sleep and recovery. These efforts are key to our commitment to scientifically-validated wellness solutions.

How does Shiftwave stimulate the parasympathetic (vagus) nerve?

Shiftwave engages the parasympathetic nervous system, which includes the vagus nerve, through cycles of vibrational activation and recovery. By guiding the body into a heightened sympathetic state and then suddenly stopping the stimulation, Shiftwave encourages the body to reflexively activate the parasympathetic nervous system in response. This "reflexive recovery" process enhances vagal tone, allowing for deeper relaxation and recovery. The rhythmic patterns of Shiftwave’s vibrations also mirror naturally calming rhythms, like respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), further promoting a coherent and calming effect on the vagus nerve. Over time, these cycles train the body to respond more effectively to stress and improve overall nervous system resilience.

What is respiratory sinus arythmia (RSA)?

Respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) is a natural variation in heart rate that occurs during the breathing cycle. It's characterized by an increase in heart rate during inhalation and a decrease during exhalation. This phenomenon is regulated by the autonomic nervous system and reflects a healthy interaction between the heart and the lungs. RSA is generally seen as a positive indicator of heart health and autonomic nervous system balance, as it shows the heart’s adaptability to physiological changes. Shiftwave incorporates this process by synchronizes pulsed-pressure waves with breathing queues to further enhance nervous system training and entrainment.

How do I know this is working? How can I measure it?

To assess the effectiveness of Shiftwave, you can consider both subjective and objective measures. Pay attention to changes in your stress levels, quality of sleep, and overall sense of well-being before and after using Shiftwave. Noticing improvements in relaxation, focus, and recovery can be a good indicator. Use tools like heart rate variability (HRV) monitors (including the built-in HRV score), sleep trackers, or stress level measuring devices to quantify physiological changes. Shiftwave's impact can be reflected in improvements in these metrics. Regular use over a period can offer clearer insights into its effectiveness. Track your usage and note any trends or patterns in your well-being or physiological measurements. If you're working with a healthcare provider, therapist, or trainer, their observations can provide an external perspective on the changes they see in you. Remember, individual responses can vary, so finding the best way to measure effectiveness might require a combination of these methods.

How are the protocols validated?

For individual protocols, validation is initiated foundational psychophysiology data and with expert insights. While we aim to align each protocol with its intended benefits, we recognize the importance of user experiences and feedback in understanding the impact of our protocols. Currently, our focus is on collecting and understanding diverse user experiences in the form of biometric and self-report data to inform future refinements and additional protocol creation. We acknowledge that individual responses can vary, and we encourage users to explore and find the journeys that best resonate with their personal wellness goals.

Shipping & Returns

Below are some common questions about shipping, returns, and exchanges

Will Shiftwave include the correct power adapter for my country?

Our MeanWell power supply is designed to support a wide voltage range of 90-264V AC and a frequency range of 47-63Hz, making it compatible worldwide. All international shipments come with the appropriate power cord for your region.

What is the shipment size and weight?

The shipping box is 46 x 32 x 10”, weight is 56 lbs.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, we ship internationally!

Please note that Shipito does not ship to Russia, Ukraine, Cuba, or any countries restricted by the USA. International Overseas customers are responsible for paying customs duties and taxes, which will be included in the quote.

What is your return policy?

We offer a 30-Day Happiness Guarantee, allowing you to try Shiftwave risk-free. If you’re not satisfied, you can return it within 30 days. Please note that customers are responsible for return shipping costs, and we recommend keeping the original packaging for a smooth return process.