Biofeedback
Imagine managing stress by calming your heart rate with your mind, or improving focus by quieting specific brainwaves. Sounds like science fiction, right? Well, biofeedback and neurofeedback are therapeutic techniques that make these scenarios a reality!
The field of study on biofeedback first emerged in the 1960s. In the recent few decades, biofeedback has gained popularity as a complementary or alternative treatment for a variety of clinical disorders, including symptom relief. Biofeedback and neurofeedback are mind-body tools that utilize technology In order to help patients learn how to modify their physiological reactions, biofeedback uses devices to measure and offer real-time feedback on those responses. Muscle activity, heart rate variability and function, respiration, blood pressure and flow, brainwaves, skin temperature, and electrodermal (sweat gland) activity are the most often measured parameters.
This feedback allows you to learn how to control these responses, potentially improving your mental health. The ultimate goal is for this change to eventually be maintained in all settings and without the need for equipment.
Biofeedback: Your Body Talks Back
Imagine seeing a calming blue light when your heart rate slows or hearing soothing music when your muscles relax. Biofeedback helps you understand the connection between your thoughts, emotions, and physical reactions. This awareness empowers you to consciously influence these responses, promoting relaxation, pain management, and stress reduction.
Neurofeedback: Training Your Brainwaves
Neurofeedback takes things a step further by focusing on brain activity. Electrodes placed on your scalp measure your brainwaves. Similar to biofeedback, a device translates brainwave activity into visual or auditory feedback. For instance, you might see a calming image when your brain produces calming brainwaves, motivating you to maintain that state. Over time, neurofeedback can help train your brain to regulate its activity, potentially improving symptoms of anxiety, ADHD, and even insomnia.
Receipt of these feedback increases patients’ awareness of these physiological processes. Ideally, when this awareness is paired with interventions to change behavior, thoughts, or emotions, a beneficial change in the physiological process occurs.
Are they Right for You?
While research shows promise, biofeedback and neurofeedback aren’t magic bullets. They work best alongside traditional therapies like psychotherapy. If you’re curious about these innovative techniques, consult the Federation of Indian Psychology today to see if they could be part of your wellness journey. Remember, a healthy mind often starts with a healthy connection between your mind and body!
References
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Association for Applied Psychophysiology & Biofeedback. About Biofeedback
(https://aapb.org/About_BioFeedback). Accessed 10/27/2023.
Malik K, Dua A. Biofeedback (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK553075/). 2022 Dec 2. In:
StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Accessed 10/27/2023.
Moss D, Shaffer F. The application of heart rate variability biofeedback to medical and mental health
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