Biofeedback
How can biofeedback nourish you?
Biofeedback evolved from early research starting in the 1940’s. Scientists from different fields studied the various applications of feedback. In 1969 researchers joined together to form the Biofeedback Research Society. It became one of the earliest behavioural medical treatments and has been practiced since the 1970’s.[1]
The basis of biofeedback treatment is to observe oneself in order to develop awareness and understanding and make changes around ones psychology, behaviour or even lifestyle in order to promote health and wellbeing and so gain control of muscle tension, blood pressure, and heart rate. The basic principle is to augment the normal sensory feedback and allow better control of body functions that are usually considered involuntary.[2]
There is ongoing research of the many benefits that biofeedback has for almost all illnesses and its ability to fulfil the desire for a happy and healthy life. Psychologists and sports trainers regularly use this treatment and it has been proven to improve people’s quality of life.
Benefits of biofeedback
Biofeedback therapy will help you change or modify your body’s physiological reactions by altering your emotions, thoughts or behaviours. This biofeedback technique is vital in complementing your treatment for illness or wellbeing.
There are many positive long-term effects of biofeedback, as it’s a practice you can implement in your daily life to find peace within your healing journey. Biofeedback therapy can also be used as a preventative; this can help you on your path towards better control and greater wellbeing.
Biofeedback therapy is appealing as it's non-invasive. It can minimise the need for medication or provide positive results to those whose medication hasn’t worked previously. It is also safe to use during pregnancy and it gives people the opportunity to take charge of their own health.
Biofeedback can assist in relieving symptoms related to chronic pain, urinary incontenence, Headaches, ADHD, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and high blood pressure[3]
What to expect from a biofeedback session
A typical session will last from one to one and a half hours. You will be in a gentle and still space whilst sitting or lying down fully clothed.
The biofeedback therapist will choose which type of biofeedback is best for you depending on your health goals or problems. These different types assess brainwaves, breathing, heart rate, muscles, sweat glands and temperature.[4] Biofeedback types are often combined to get accurate results for a better understanding of your medical needs.
Several forms of Biofeedback that may be offered include[5] ; Electromyography(EMG), Neurofeedback, Electrodermal Activity (EDA) and Heartrate Variability Feedback(HRV)
Electric sensors will be attached to different parts of the body which monitors the body’s state. The information is then fed back via cues, like beeping sounds, flashing lights or visual movements on the screen. The biofeedback practitioner will help you control these reactions through a range of control practices.
The length and number of sessions will be determined by how long it takes for you to learn to control your physical responses.
References
1. International Society for Neurofeedback and Research | NRBS
3. Overview of Biofeedback | WebMD
4. About Biofeedback | Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback Association