Neurofeedback
Neurofeedback, sometimes called EEG biofeedback or brain wave training, is biofeedback that improves brain function. There has been extensive research on neurofeedback and its ability to enhance overall brain functioning, which can improve your quality of life, enhance performance, increase energy, and improve memory, organization, and language skills. In addition, neurofeedback has been proven effective for a variety of conditions and symptoms, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, sleep disturbances, autism spectrum disorder, addiction, PTSD, and emotional dysregulation.
More About Neurofeedback
What to Expect
During a neurofeedback session, small sensors are attached to specific areas of your scalp. These sensors only read the brainwaves emitted by your brain and transmit them through sophisticated equipment to a computer, which then provides a visual representation of the waves. The sensors do not transmit any signals to your brain, nor do they impact your brain in any way.
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Once the sensors are connected to your scalp, you may opt to watch a movie or other video, listen to music, or play a game. As you engage in this activity, your brainwaves are monitored and the practitioner evaluates the patterns and sets training parameters. The computer provides you with audio and/or visual feedback each time your brain produces brainwaves that are in the target range, so you receive instant feedback when your brain produces the desired pattern. Through continued positive feedback, your brain learns how to repeat that pattern.
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Just like building muscles by lifting weights, the more your brain practices the new pattern, the more readily your brain is able to produce the desired pattern, leading to improved functioning and a reduction in symptoms. Depending on the area(s) targeted, these improvements could include increased alertness, a more relaxed state, improved verbal and communication skills, reduced emotional lability, increased focus, improved sleep, and more.
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How Neurofeedback Works
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To understand neurofeedback, we must first look at how the brain works. Your brain is comprised of neurons that generate electrical impulses and chemical signals to transmit information to various parts of the brain and body. When these electrical impulses, called brainwaves, are balanced, you’re more likely to feel calm, centered, and focused. When these brainwaves are not in harmony, it can give rise to any number of challenges.
Neurofeedback helps train your brain so that it produces synchronous brainwaves that fall within an optimal range. When your brainwaves are within this desired range, the problems or symptoms that were present before tend to lessen or resolve completely. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or not, neurofeedback also enhances overall
performance and function.
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Neurofeedback is noninvasive, drug free, and pain free. It is evidence-based and there are countless published research studies demonstrating its efficacy for a wide range of symptoms and challenges. In addition, neurofeedback has long-lasting effects. Improvement is often seen within the first 10 sessions, if not sooner, and last longer with each subsequent training. Because neurofeedback allows you to train your brain, the benefits and improvements often extend beyond the specific reasons that led you to start training. With all of these benefits and no harmful side effects, why not give neurofeedback a try?
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Neurofeedback is completely safe and noninvasive. When performed by a trained practitioner, side effects occur rarely, are usually mild, and resolve quickly. NASA has been using neurofeedback to train astronauts since the 1960s. Today, it is used by medical practitioners worldwide. Many professional athletes and industry leaders, including Tony Robbins, have used this technique to step up their game.
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