{"id":14864,"date":"2025-07-21T16:50:39","date_gmt":"2025-07-21T16:50:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/taxops.com\/?p=14864"},"modified":"2025-07-21T16:50:41","modified_gmt":"2025-07-21T16:50:41","slug":"future-of-mental-fitness-taxops-steps-into-lumenas-mindgym","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/taxops.com\/future-of-mental-fitness-taxops-steps-into-lumenas-mindgym\/","title":{"rendered":"Future of Mental Fitness: TaxOps Steps Into Lumena\u2019s MindGym"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div style=\"height:41px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" data-src=\"https:\/\/taxops.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/The-Future-of-Mental-Fitness-1024x576.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-14866 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/taxops.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/The-Future-of-Mental-Fitness-980x551.png 980w, https:\/\/taxops.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/The-Future-of-Mental-Fitness-480x270.png 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/taxops.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/The-Future-of-Mental-Fitness-1024x576.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-14866 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/taxops.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/The-Future-of-Mental-Fitness-980x551.png 980w, https:\/\/taxops.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/The-Future-of-Mental-Fitness-480x270.png 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" \/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em><em><em><em><em>TaxOps had the incredible opportunity to step inside the future of mental fitness at\u00a0Lumena in Denver. From immersive fitness training to cutting-edge biosensor tech, MindGym\u2019s\u00a0experience is unlike anything we&#8217;ve seen\u2014blending neuroscience, innovation, and purpose.<\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The TaxOps team recently had the opportunity to step into the future of cognitive performance training with a visit to\u00a0Lumena\u2019s MindGym in Denver, Colorado. Hosted by CEO\u00a0Pamela Glick, Director of Customer Success\u00a0Sonya Barnett, and Head of Growth\u00a0Brandon Murphy, we were welcomed into MindGym, a space where neuroscience, technology, and mindfulness converge to create a transformative experience within a 7&#215;7 mirrored cube.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What Is MindGym?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Described as a cognitive training tool and sensory deprivation tank all in one, MindGym is a fully immersive environment designed to push the boundaries of mental performance.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With over 32 different experiences to choose from, users can tailor their sessions to focus on mindfulness, focus, recovery, or cognitive performance. The experience is enhanced by biosensor technology that tracks brainwaves and heart rate, offering real-time feedback on the physiological impact of each session.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>From Military to Mainstream<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Originally developed through a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) award from the&nbsp;Air Force Ventures Fund, Lumena has deployed 27 MindGyms across 26 military bases. These units are used in a variety of settings\u2014from fitness centers and chaplaincy offices to leadership programs and pilot training facilities\u2014demonstrating the versatility and effectiveness of the technology.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The company\u2019s mission is deeply purpose-driven. Glick shared stories of veterans who have found relief from PTSD and depression through regular MindGym use, highlighting the potential for this technology to change lives. One veteran, after 20+ sessions, reported a dramatic improvement in her mental health and ability to be present with her family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cThere were times I was in full-blown meltdown mode \u2014 thinking about self-harm. I would go into the MindGym, and after a single session, my emotions would settle. My thoughts would clear. It gave me a safe space to reset and start again.\u201d &#8211; Anonymous Veteran, 2025<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While Lumena has focused on military applications, the team is now preparing to expand into commercial markets. With a patented combination of immersive space, light and sound therapy, and biofeedback, MindGym is uniquely positioned to support mental wellness in high-stress industries like aviation, healthcare, and workplace wellness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Behind the Scenes<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">During our visit, we toured the manufacturing and testing areas where each MindGym is assembled. From high-reflectivity Mylar mirrors to streamlined biosensor headbands, every detail is engineered for both performance and member comfort. The team is also working on improving scalability and expanding their installer network.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In a world where mental health challenges are on the rise and attention spans are shrinking, Lumena is offering a proactive, science-forward solution. As one team member put it, \u201cIt\u2019s like flossing your brain.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With regular use, MindGym provides a powerful tool for building resilience, intensifying focus, and even regulating the nervous system in times of consequence. Visit <a href=\"https:\/\/lumenalabs.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Lumena Labs\">LumenaLabs.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended, nor should it be relied upon, as legal, tax, accounting or investment advice. You should consult with a competent professional to discuss specifics of your situation and the applicability of the information presented.&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:57px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-fe48e5de wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/taxops.com\/contact\/\">Talk to a Business Tax Advocate<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:53px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Read more<\/h2>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__list wp-block-latest-posts\"><li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/taxops.com\/auditor-independence-in-the-age-of-private-equity\/\">Auditor Independence in the Age of Private Equity: What CFOs Need to Know<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/taxops.com\/r-d-credits-for-software-companies\/\">R&amp;D Credits for Software Companies: Scrum Teams, Qualifiers, and Section 174 After OBBBA<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/taxops.com\/section-174-decoupling-what-tax-pros-need-to-know-state-by-state\/\">Section 174 Decoupling: What Tax Pros Need To Know State By State<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/taxops.com\/sean-espy-new-partner\/\">TaxOps Welcomes Sean Espy as Partner, Tax Minimization<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"wp-block-latest-posts__post-title\" href=\"https:\/\/taxops.com\/state-nexus-demystified-navigating-tax-compliance-after-wayfair-episode-1-2\/\">Your Tax Footprint Is Probably Bigger Than You Think: What Finance Leaders Need to Know About State Nexus<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>TaxOps had the incredible opportunity to step inside the future of mental fitness at\u00a0Lumena in Denver. From immersive fitness training to cutting-edge biosensor tech, MindGym\u2019s\u00a0experience is unlike anything we&#8217;ve seen\u2014blending neuroscience, innovation, and purpose. The TaxOps team recently had the opportunity to step into the future of cognitive performance training with a visit to\u00a0Lumena\u2019s MindGym [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":14866,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"<!-- wp:spacer {\"height\":\"41px\"} -->\n<div style=\"height:41px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:spacer -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":14221,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"https:\/\/taxops.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/2025-Colorado-State-and-Local-Tax-Legislation-1024x576.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-14221\"\/><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:quote -->\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\"><!-- wp:paragraph {\"align\":\"center\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em>Judy Vorndran, lead partner of state and local tax at TaxOps, testified before the Colorado Senate Finance Committee on January 28, 2025. She addressed SB25-018 and SB25-046, proposed legislation that would create a searchable database and enhance audit confidentiality. Below is a summary of her remarks<\/em>.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"align\":\"center\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em>Following testimony and discussion, the Finance Committee unanimously passed both bills. SB25-018 now moves to the Committee on Appropriations while SB25-046, as amended, has been referred to the full Senate and placed on the Senate consent calendar.<\/em> <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"align\":\"center\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em>\"It was an amazing experience to look in all of their faces and explain why these laws make Colorado more competitive and are good for both government and taxpayers<\/em>,\"<em>  ~ Judy Vorndran <\/em><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/blockquote>\n<!-- \/wp:quote -->\n\n<!-- wp:group {\"layout\":{\"type\":\"constrained\"}} -->\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><!-- wp:spacer {\"height\":\"34px\"} -->\n<div style=\"height:34px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:spacer -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textAlign\":\"center\"} -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Testimony on SB25-018, Online Search of Sales and Use Tax, and SB25-046, Local Government Tax Audit Confidentiality Standards<\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:spacer {\"height\":\"42px\"} -->\n<div style=\"height:42px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:spacer --><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:group -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Good afternoon, members of the <a href=\"https:\/\/leg.colorado.gov\/committees\/finance\/2024-regular-session\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Senate Finance Committee\">Senate Finance Committee<\/a>. My name is <a href=\"https:\/\/taxops.com\/judith-vorndran\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Judy Vorndran\">Judy Vorndran<\/a>. I am a partner in the tax specialty firm TaxOps and a member of the &nbsp;Sales and Use Tax Simplification Task Force.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>I am here to testify in support of two bills, SB25-018 and SB25-046. A summary of my statement follows.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:spacer {\"height\":\"43px\"} -->\n<div style=\"height:43px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:spacer -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SB25-018, Online Search of Sales and Use Tax<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>SB25-018 aims to create a searchable database for sales and use tax licenses and exemption certificates. This bill is crucial for improving transparency and compliance in our tax system.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Key Points<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Importance of a Searchable Database:<\/strong><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>SB25-018 proposes the creation of a database at the state and department of revenue level, allowing taxpayers to look up licenses and entities.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Benefits for Taxpayers:<\/strong><ol><li>Having access to a searchable database would be a significant advantage for taxpayers. It would help them ensure that vendors are properly licensed and collecting the correct tax amounts.<\/li><\/ol><!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true} -->\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>This measure would also align Colorado with other states, such as Texas, which already have similar databases in place. These databases have proven to be extremely helpful for taxpayers in those states.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ol>\n<!-- \/wp:list --><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Improved Compliance:<\/strong><!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true} -->\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>The searchable database would facilitate better compliance with tax laws. Taxpayers would be able to verify the status of vendors and themselves, reducing the risk of errors and ensuring accurate tax collection.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ol>\n<!-- \/wp:list --><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>SB25-018 is a vital step towards enhancing transparency and compliance in Colorado's tax system. I urge the Committee to support this bill and help create a more efficient and taxpayer-friendly environment.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:spacer {\"height\":\"46px\"} -->\n<div style=\"height:46px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:spacer -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SB25-046, Local Government Tax Audit Confidentiality Standards<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>SB25-046 addresses the confidentiality standards for local government sales or use tax audits. This bill would both protect taxpayer information and ensure fairer audit practices.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Key Points<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true} -->\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Confidentiality Concerns:<ol><li>SB25-046 aims to establish uniform confidentiality standards for local government tax audits. This is important because third-party auditors often conduct these audits, and there are concerns about how taxpayer information is handled and shared.<\/li><\/ol><!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true} -->\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Currently, third-party auditors are not always licensed professionals, and there is no regulation ensuring their confidentiality practices. This raises significant concerns about the protection of sensitive taxpayer information.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ol>\n<!-- \/wp:list --><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Issues with Third-Party Auditors:<ol><li>Many home-rule cities do not have captive auditors and rely on third-party auditors who may conduct audits on behalf of multiple jurisdictions. This can lead to inefficiencies and increased taxpayer burdens.<\/li><\/ol><!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true} -->\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>There are instances where third-party auditors may target large taxpayers, leading to multiple audits across different cities. This practice is also burdensome and raises concerns about the confidentiality of taxpayer information.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ol>\n<!-- \/wp:list --><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Need for Regulation:<ol><li>There is a need for stricter regulation and oversight of third-party auditors to ensure they adhere to uniform confidentiality standards. This includes establishing ethical and fiduciary duties similar to those required of licensed professionals.<\/li><\/ol><!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true} -->\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>The bill also highlights the importance of transparency in the contracts between cities and third-party auditors. These contracts should be subject to public scrutiny to ensure accountability.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ol>\n<!-- \/wp:list --><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ol>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>SB25-046 is essential for protecting taxpayer information and ensuring fair audit practices. I urge the Finance Committee to support this bill and help create a more transparent and accountable audit process. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>I would be happy to answer related questions you may have, and I thank you for the opportunity to weigh in on these important pieces of legislation.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:spacer {\"height\":\"57px\"} -->\n<div style=\"height:57px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:spacer -->\n\n<!-- wp:buttons {\"layout\":{\"type\":\"flex\",\"justifyContent\":\"center\"}} -->\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons\"><!-- wp:button -->\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/taxops.com\/contact\/\">Talk to a Business Tax Advocate<\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:button --><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:buttons -->\n\n<!-- wp:spacer {\"height\":\"53px\"} -->\n<div style=\"height:53px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:spacer -->\n\n<!-- wp:separator -->\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n<!-- \/wp:separator -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Read more<\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:latest-posts \/-->","_et_gb_content_width":"","spt_transcript":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[230,225,228,226],"tags":[252,1145,284,12,1144,1158,126,26,265,1135,492,1134,18,19,316,1136,30,810,101,799,605,262,79,267,620,80,712,1138,1137,74],"class_list":["post-14864","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-asc-740","category-events","category-federal-tax","category-tax-news","tag-accountant","tag-advocate","tag-cfo","tag-colorado","tag-colorado-society-of-cpa","tag-continuous-education","tag-cpa","tag-cpe","tag-finance-professional","tag-iaas","tag-leadership","tag-saas","tag-sales-and-use-tax","tag-sales-tax","tag-salt","tag-software-providers","tag-state-and-local-tax","tag-state-income-tax","tag-state-tax","tag-tax-advisor","tag-tax-automation","tag-tax-planning","tag-tax-preparer","tag-tax-professional","tag-tax-professionals","tag-tax-provider","tag-tax-school","tag-tax-tools","tag-tax-vendors","tag-taxops"],"aioseo_notices":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/taxops.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/The-Future-of-Mental-Fitness.png","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/taxops.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14864","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/taxops.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/taxops.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/taxops.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/taxops.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14864"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/taxops.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14864\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":14868,"href":"https:\/\/taxops.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14864\/revisions\/14868"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/taxops.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/14866"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/taxops.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14864"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/taxops.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14864"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/taxops.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14864"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}