Why should I choose to do neurofeedback with Mindful Moves?
Mindful Moves stands out by not only importing equipment from the US but also by providing HEG services. Their latest offering, the State Changer, is an innovative HEG device that monitors blood flow to and from the prefrontal cortex. Utilizing infrared light and sensors, it assesses the oxygen levels in this area, which is something EEG cannot achieve. While many practitioners focus on training areas further back in the brain to enhance skills and concentration, the State Changer specifically helps clients improve their ability to concentrate on both details and the broader context. This skill is essential in various aspects of life, particularly in educational settings where children need to transition their focus from their books to the teacher and the classroom environment.
Mindful Moves incorporates various techniques alongside neurofeedback to enhance the outcomes we aim for. By integrating primitive reflexes, we reinforce the brain’s foundational structure, which aids in the development of the nervous system. Dr. Robert Melillo has identified a clear connection between these primitive reflexes and a brain that is primarily influenced by slower brain waves, often seen in children facing learning difficulties, ADHD, ASD, and other related challenges.
Mindful Moves incorporates methods designed to soothe the mind. Individuals in the US who have tried these techniques report that their experiences can be comparable to undergoing up to eighty neurofeedback sessions. Although Mindful Moves has not officially verified this, we have observed remarkable transformations in clients who begin with these techniques, and we’ve noticed that the brain reacts positively during the subsequent training sessions.
Mindful Moves offers a unique blend of goal-setting sessions and brain training that has received fantastic feedback. During our goal-setting sessions, we incorporate movement to help clients confront and overcome limiting beliefs, engaging their thought processes in a dynamic way. Achieving mental clarity and enhancing brain function can truly transform lives.
Mindful Moves offers AIMS products and hosts free Zoom sessions led by Madeleine Helm for those interested. These sessions are highly informative and can assist clients in making healthier choices about their bodies and understanding the impact that poor eating habits can have on both physical and mental well-being.
How does neurofeedback work?
Neurofeedback is essentially a system designed to give your brain feedback. That’s its primary function. Electrodes are positioned on the head to monitor brain waves in real time. The software then quickly provides rewards and inhibitory feedback that the brain can recognize. When the brain enjoys the reward, it will strive to attain it again. With enough repetition, new neural pathways are created and reinforced. As these more efficient pathways develop, the old, less efficient ones weaken and are eventually pruned away by the brain.
What is HEG
HEG refers to Hemoencephalography, a device designed to enhance blood circulation to and from the brain. It specifically targets the prefrontal cortex, which is crucial for improving focus and executive functioning skills. Increased oxygen and glucose in the blood contribute to heightened brain activity. Mindful Moves has recently acquired the newly launched State Change from the US, which is linked to a game that helps clients shift their focus from a broad perspective to a more concentrated one. This engaging approach is particularly beneficial for individuals who struggle with these skills, allowing them to train this area of the brain effectively. Additionally, the HEG “Life” game ensures that clients do not overtrain this region.
Why are some professionals against it?
I’m still trying to grasp why certain professions are skeptical about neurofeedback, with some even advising patients against it. The reasons I’ve encountered don’t resonate with me as a neurofeedback practitioner and seem to stem from a misunderstanding of its principles. It appears that some cautious professionals may have biases related to their own practices. Neurofeedback essentially aligns with the brain’s natural development, responding to the feedback individuals receive from their environment. Neurofeedback, however, provides the brain with accurate, clear, and consistent feedback, helping individuals unlock their full potential.
Why are there some really negative comments about neurofeedback?
I’ve noticed posts and titles circulating today which are quite sensational and designed to provoke a reaction. This strategy is effective because it captures people’s attention! However, it’s essential to understand that not everyone will resonate with every approach. While neurofeedback provides numerous benefits and has minimal side effects compared to other options, some individuals might feel that their expectations weren’t fully met.
Mindful Moves incorporates various modalities to achieve the best results with neurofeedback. It’s important to consider a person’s overall health and identify any additional factors that might be influencing their symptoms, such as retained primitive reflexes or sensitivities to toxins. If you experience any discomfort, it’s crucial to communicate this with your practitioner so they can make necessary adjustments. On a serious note, it’s interesting to observe how patients often extend patience to doctors who must navigate through trial and error to find the right medication dosage. While some individuals may experience negative side effects from medications, many continue to persevere with them. This highlights the reality that no treatment is universally effective. Just like medications, neurofeedback protocols need to be tailored to meet each client’s unique needs, and practitioners rely on honest feedback to make those adjustments.
What are the negatives about neurofeedback?
Although there aren’t many downsides to neurofeedback however I will list some things people may experience.
Neurofeedback does call for dedication to the process. Essentially, we are creating new neural habits and patterns, which necessitates time and a steady effort. You can compare it to going to the gym; just like building muscle and stamina takes time and regular visits, neurofeedback is about strengthening the brain. For the brain to adopt these new changes, old neural pathways must be phased out. Consider altering your personal habits—making a change typically requires around 21 days of consistently practicing a new behavior to replace an old one that doesn’t benefit you anymore.
Some individuals might not feel their best after a neurofeedback session, and while this can be a bit concerning to the client, it’s actually quite normal. It’s common for clients to experience temporary feelings of fatigue, irritability, or even mild headaches, and they might find themselves feeling more emotional than usual. Just like after a workout at the gym, you might leave feeling tired or a bit sore. This is because the brain is working hard, requiring increased blood flow, or it may be that now, with the brain more relaxed than before, it’s becoming aware of bodily sensations and discomfort that it previously overlooked. If you experience any of these feelings, please communicate with your practitioner. They can determine if adjustments to the feedback are needed to help your brain gradually reach the desired goals and further put your mind at ease that these are signs of progress.
When will neurofeedback not work?
Sometimes, we might notice that neurofeedback hasn’t made a noticeable difference in brain function. This can happen for several reasons, so it’s crucial to work with a practitioner who is attentive and can tailor the brain training sessions to suit your individual needs. The feedback provided to the brain relies on the signals detected by the electrodes. If you move around too much, tense your muscles, blink excessively, or even fall asleep during the sessions, these actions can be misinterpreted as brain activity by the sensors. As a result, the feedback may not accurately reflect brain function but rather the body’s movements.
Neurofeedback practitioners might choose to begin with calming protocols in such situations or recommend shorter sessions instead. They can also reduce the duration of protocols with the eyes closed and gradually increase them while offering feedback, like referencing a client’s favorite show, to encourage them to remain still for longer periods. It’s also crucial for practitioners to observe any signs of fidgeting or tension in the body, as these can indicate the need to adjust the feedback range.
An anxious mind often struggles to adapt to new changes. Mindful Moves has achieved significant success by utilizing methods beyond EEG to help reduce resting anxiety levels in the brain. This includes our stress relief sessions and the integration of primitive reflexes. Adults might benefit from starting with six stress relief sessions, while younger children may need only four. Our primitive reflex integration home program can be easily implemented by parents before and during brain training which will ingrate primitive reflexes associated with fear and anxiety. Mindful Moves will also initiate protocols designed to soothe the brain. Additionally, we recommend considering some of our AIMS products, which can help eliminate toxins from the body and reduce inflammation. Toxins and inflammation can keep individuals in a constant state of fight-or-flight or freeze, as the body struggles to manage ongoing physical stress.
Will neurofeedback change my personality?
Neurofeedback won’t alter your core identity, but it can certainly support you in feeling less anxious and achieving greater emotional stability. It may help you become less impulsive, more motivated, and enthusiastic, while also reducing the likelihood of explosive reactions or holding onto grudges. Instead of changing who you are, neurofeedback aims to amplify your natural strengths and talents, helping you become more resilient.
Is neurofeedback brain washing?
Neurofeedback cannot brainwash you. Its purpose is to provide your brain with feedback about the energy and activity levels at different areas of the cortex. Sometimes, we struggle to complete tasks or unwind because the energy available in those brain regions isn’t sufficient for their specific functions. Neurofeedback is not about watching subliminal images or listening to music with hidden messages. You might notice the music changing tempo or the screen brightening and dimming; this is simply the feedback process. While this happens, there’s no need for you to worry. Brain training is more about relaxing than engaging in a mental workout. You can let your brain absorb the feedback naturally, and it does so remarkably well.
Is neurofeedback dangerous?
Neurofeedback is just as harmless as your mom shouting at you about tidying up your room or your teacher celebrating your achievements. When you receive negative feedback for your actions, it teaches you to avoid repeating those behaviours. Conversely, positive feedback encourages you to think about how to replicate that behaviour or even enhance it. In fact, this inconsistency in natural feedback can be more harmful than neurofeedback itself, as it has contributed to the inefficient patterns in your brain. For instance, your mom, teacher, or partner might respond differently based on their mood—being supportive one day and critical the next. Neurofeedback will not and will always offer your brain the same, pure feedback.
How long do I need to do neurofeedback?
It’s essential to respect the journey you’re on. Remember, this is an investment in yourself. Joining a gym won’t instantly give you the ideal physique. Just like occupational therapy or speech therapy requires time and dedication to yield results, neurofeedback should be viewed similarly. Once you choose to pursue this path, commit to it and maintain consistency. Acknowledge that this should take precedence over swimming practice and other extracurricular activities, as it will enhance every aspect of a person’s life. In fact, many top athletes utilize neurofeedback to elevate their performance. Take a look at your schedule and make it a priority. Make sure everyone involved with your child understands the significance of strengthening the brain for improved performance.
