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Biofeedback, Neurofeedback, and Audio Visual Entrainment |
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Neurofeedback and biofeedback, offer a non invasive modality which uses sophisticated technology to measure the natural activities of body to self correct or change sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system dysfunctions by working on changing internal processes, such as EEG’s (the electroencephalogram, EEG or brain waves), heart rate, galvanic skin response, temperature, develop more effective breathing patterns and synchronization of breathing with heart rate, by observing the internal functions shown and recorded in real-time. Neurofeedback is a form of biofeedback. It's a training process which uses technology to provide the individual with more information about what their body is doing than our ordinary senses provide. The information collected and shown on the computer screen is presented back to the individual in a form so that they can simultaneously see what is happening in the measured parameters and what they are changing. This "feedback" helps the individual to learn to use their mind to develop greater control over their body, or, in the case of neurofeedback, brain activity. By learning to modify the brain or body state, the brain and the body have the ability to learn, to overcome dysfunctions, not previously possible without this technique. Originally EEG Neurofeedback was pioneered for the treatment of neurological conditions such as epilepsy and stroke and is now used for many other difficulties or dysfunctions. Once the brain has been retrained in a particular brain wave or mental state, it becomes permanent, unless changed by the person, just like learning to walk, skate, or ride a bike. The process is not easy, although the computer games make it fun. Audio Visual Entrainment, or Light Therapy, is a passive, effective treatment, with no known side effects, to correct dysfunctional EEG patterns or enhance existing EEG Brain wave functioning. Research shows that besides entraining to more relaxing or more active EEG Brain patterns, Audio Visual Entrainment therapy also increases blood flow and brain neurotransmitters, enhancing a feeling of well being. Audio Visual Entrainment Therapy consists of a computerized pair of goggles with flashing LED lights and a pair of ear phones which deliver programmed synchronized light and sound frequencies that entrain the brain in the desirable EEG brain wave. Light Therapy has been extensively used by athletes to shift into “The Zone” a state of body/mind that produces extraordinary levels of performance with an ease and effortlessness not normally experienced. The most important characteristic of “The Zone” appears to be a quiet mind and relatively relaxed body described as calm alertness. Neurotherapy is effective for:
The rationale for using neurofeedback therapeutically is that it corrects deficits in cerebral regulatory function related to arousal, attention, vigilance and affect. It also empowers the child or adult to know that they can be in control of brain and body functions often thought of as out of our control. Neurotherapy is a blend of old and new, using the best of both to create a highly effective method for growth. It combines the use of neuro-technology combined with traditional therapies to enhance healing, change, and growth. I tend to think of it as the therapy of the future. During a neurofeedback session, patients learn to produce desirable brain wave patterns of body functions displayed on a computer screed by controlling the results of a computerized game or task on another computer screen. During an Audio Visual Entrainment session the patient sits comfortably with earphones and eye glasses that produce sound and flashing lights that provide the opportunity for the brain to entrain to the programmed frequencies. Entrainment is a well known phenomenon in nature, clocks entrain to each other, that is if in the same room, women menstruate at the same time if living together, etc. From the results I have read in sound research studies, seen in my own personal use, family, and friends, and patients, I am convinced that neuro-therapy will be incorporated as an adjunct to holistic treatment modalities in the future. It is taking its time to be accepted since it is cutting edge technology, like osteopathy, acupuncture, light therapy etc. Because it sounds like a "cure all," it is an instant red flag in medical circles. I did not trust, it until I tried it on my own and found it amazingly effective in completely obliterating my still returning migraines, if I catch it right when it is starting. Its been a great relief not to loose another day due to a migraine reaction! For additional information please visit: Mind Alive Inc. Minnesota Neurotherapy EEG Spectrum International International Society for Neuronal Regulation Association for Applied Psychophysiology & Biofeedback Welcome to the Bio Research Istitute International Brain Injury Association Amen Clinic Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need additional information. 1-866-99PEACE (997-3223) amicitas@amicitas.com |
WEBGURU:
NOVIMIR PABLANT ANTONIUK
AMICITAS@SAN.RR.COM
LAST UPDATE
9 | 2004