May marks awesome movement of Mindful in May, a global trend encouraging people to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with their inner world. At Mush Mush, we believe that mindfulness isn’t just about meditation or breathwork—it’s also about what you put into your body. Functional mushrooms have been used for thousands of years to support mental clarity, calm, and focus, making them the perfect companions for anyone looking to get the most out of this mindful month.
In this article, we explore the top mushrooms for cognitive function and why they may help you feel more present, focused, and calm—without the crash.
🍄 1. Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus): The Brain Builder
Lion’s Mane is often referred to as the “smart mushroom,” and for good reason.
This shaggy-looking fungus is known for its ability to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF)—a protein that plays a crucial role in the growth, repair, and protection of neurons (brain cells). Unlike stimulants like caffeine, Lion’s Mane works with your brain’s natural systems to enhance focus and memory over time.
Key Benefits:
- Supports cognitive function and mental performance
- May improve short- and long-term memory
-Promotes neuroplasticity (your brain’s ability to adapt and grow)
How to use it: We recommend adding it to your morning coffee, matcha, or smoothie to help support focus throughout the day. Our Mind Brew blend contains a potent dose of Lion’s Mane alongside Cordyceps and MCT for a triple impact.
🌿 2. Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum): The Nervous System Regulator
If Lion’s Mane is the brain builder, Reishi is the emotional stabiliser.
Known in Traditional Chinese Medicine as the “Mushroom of Immortality,” Reishi has long been revered for its calming and grounding effects. It works by supporting the parasympathetic nervous system—the system responsible for rest, digestion, and deep recovery.
In today’s overstimulated world, Reishi can act as a natural counterbalance to stress and overwhelm, helping you feel more centred and capable of staying present.
Key Benefits:
- Reduces anxiety and improves sleep quality
- Supports emotional regulation and nervous system balance
- Enhances resilience to chronic stress (as an adaptogen)
How to use it: Best consumed in the evening. We love it in our warm & calming cacao blend, paired with calming music or a mindfulness ritual before bed.
⚡ 3. Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris): The Energy Enhancer
Though often associated with physical performance, Cordyceps also has a powerful impact on mental energy and clarity.
Cordyceps increases the body’s natural production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the molecule responsible for cellular energy. It also enhances oxygen uptake and blood flow to the brain, which can result in improved alertness, stamina, and clarity—especially during periods of burnout or fatigue.
Key Benefits:
- Increases mental and physical energy
- Enhances oxygen delivery to the brain
- Supports endurance and stamina without stimulants
How to use it: Cordyceps is great in the morning or pre-workout. Our Get Mush Done and Mush Perform blends both combine Cordyceps with other focus-enhancing mushrooms.
🧘 The Mindfulness + Mushroom Connection
Mindfulness is about more than just what’s going on in your head—it’s a full-body experience. Functional mushrooms work by supporting key systems in the body: your brain, immune system, gut, and stress response network. When these systems are in balance, it becomes easier to drop into the moment, concentrate, and respond with clarity rather than react from stress.
Whether you’re new to mindfulness or a long-time meditator, incorporating mushrooms into your daily routine can amplify your efforts—giving you the focus to work, the calm to reflect, and the energy to stay consistent.
