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Biofeedback is a training technique that teaches us to stay
relaxed, thus reducing our stress levels whilst improving our
health, well-being and performance. Biofeedback is commonly utilized
for relaxation and stress management.
Stress causes our muscles to tense and tighten, which in turn can
produce other aches and pains. Biofeedback can offer relief for
people suffering from:
migraines and tension headaches
depression
anxiety and
hypertension
Biofeedback is a non-invasive type of therapy. Sensors or electrodes are attached to the body, which provide feedback displayed on a computer screen about:
muscle tension
heart rate
breathing and
stress level
Biofeedback teaches us to use our brainpower to develop greater
control over our bodies, resulting in feelings of relaxation and
improved motor control. Through biofeedback we learn to recognise,
understand and interpret our stressors, as well as our physiological
response patterns.
BRAINWAVES
Our brain functions and communicates with our bodies through
electrical impulses, called brainwaves. Brainwaves move at different
frequencies, categorised as indicated below. Each category is
associated with certain functions and moods, namely:
Beta - Anxiety, stress, problem solving
SMR - Calm, relaxed, focused
Alpha - Peak performance, daydreaming
Theta - Meditation, creativity, insight
Delta - Sleeping
Our SMR (Low Beta) brainwaves have the additional function of
self-regulation so that we can produce the appropriate brainwaves
for any given situation. Ideally, we want to have a lot of Slow
Alpha and Theta waves - associated with relaxation and the
production of serotonin and endorphins – and plenty of SMR and
Midrange Beta waves which are good for concentration. To the
contrary, we want very little fast High Beta waves, associated with
too much adrenalin.
NEUROFEEDBACK
Neurofeedback is a non-invasive, painless, user-friendly procedure
by which brainwave activity is detected and analysed. The purpose of
Neurofeedback or Neurotherapy is to train the brain to achieve a
healthier brainwave profile. It can increase brainwave activity,
resulting in significant improvement in attention and concentration.
It is used for many conditions and disabilities in which the brain
is not working appropriately. In cases such as seizures, traumatic
brain injuries, strokes and autism, it organises the brain to
function better in the context of whatever injury or loss exists. To
control our brain functions is clearly the key to achieve optimal
intellectual, academic and athletic performance, to deal with issues
related to attention, concentration, impulsivity and movement
disorders like Parkinsonism and dystonia.
Download our Bio-Neurofeedback Pamphlet |