"Biofeedback is a process that enables an individual to learn how to change physiological activity for the purposes of improving health and performance. Precise instruments measure physiological activity such as brainwaves, heart function, breathing, muscle activity, and skin temperature. These instruments rapidly and accurately "feed back" information to the user. The presentation of this information (often in conjunction with changes in thinking, emotions, and behavior) supports desired physiological changes. Over time, these changes can endure without continued use of an instrument." Approved May 18, 2008 by:
Association for Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback (AAPB)
Biofeedback Certification International Alliance (BCIA)
International Society for Neurofeedback and Research (ISNR)
Stress reduces the ability of neurotransmitters to transmit vital messages of function in the body, causing an alarm response in the body, and these alarm responses are detected during Biofeedback Therapy. At The Biofeedback Centre our clients are involved during the biofeedback session and informed about what is happening inside their body.
The Biofeedback Centre makes use of various Biofeedback Medical Devices to relieve stress caused by physical, emotional and mental stressors.
A trained Biofeedback Practitioner facilitates the biofeedback assessment and Stress Management Program.
The following dis-eases have been successfully addressed with biofeedback therapy; ADD/ADHD, PTSD, Autism, Mood Disorders, Pain & Chronic illnesses. For a full list of treatable dis-eases and the efficacy of the treatments click here.
The chemistry of the brain is controlled by five main neurotransmitters (brain chemicals). These are serotonin, dopamine, nor-adrenaline, acetyl-choline and GABA. The amounts and ratios of each of these will determine how well you sleep, your mood and energy levels, sexual desire, whether you suffer from anxiety, your mental sharpness and your ability to learn and recall memories.
Serotonin: this neurotransmitter is often known as the "happy hormone". It is responsible for good mood and has a mild anti-anxiety effect. It also helps prevent obsessive or compulsive behaviour and reduces aggressiveness.
Dopamine: this is the "self-confidence & will power" neurotransmitter. A lack of dopamine typically results in addictive behaviour (e.g. alcoholism or binge eating) and poor self-control. People with low dopamine are often shy or lacking in self-confidence. Dopamine is also responsible for sexual desire.
Nor-adrenaline: the "energy" neurotransmitter. People lacking in nor-adrenaline typically have low energy and reduced attention levels. They also find it extremely difficult managing stressful situations.
Acetyl-choline: the "intelligence" neurotransmitter. Acetyl-choline is responsible for memory, learning and verbal fluency. When it is lacking, memory problems can manifest, and creativity can be reduced.
GABA: the "calming" neurotransmitter. Unlike other neurotransmitters, which are mostly stimulating, GABA is a sedating anti-anxiety neurotransmitter. Its levels rise particularly at night, and it is influenced by a brain hormone called melatonin. People with low levels of GABA or melatonin experience excessive anxiety and difficulty with sleeping.
Here are ways in which some key body systems react:
1. NERVOUS SYSTEM
When stressed - physically or psychologically - the body suddenly shifts its energy resources to fighting off the perceived threat. In what is known as the "flight or fight" response, the sympathetic nervous system signals the adrenal glands to release adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones make the heart beat faster, raise blood pressure, change the digestive process and boost glucose levels in the bloodstream. Once the crisis passes, body systems usually return to normal. If they don't return to normal an imbalance occurs in the body.
2. MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM
Under stress, muscles tense up. The contraction of muscles for extended periods can trigger tension headaches, migraines and various musculoskeletal conditions.
3. RESPIRATORY SYSTEM
Stress can make you breathe harder and cause rapid breathing - or hyperventilation - which can bring on panic attacks in some people.
4. CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM
Acute stress - stress that is momentary, such as being stuck in traffic - causes an increase in heart rate and strongercontractions of the heart muscles. Blood vessels that direct blood to the large muscles and to the heart dilate, increasing the amount of blood pumped to these parts of the body. Repeated episodes of acute stress can cause inflammation in the coronary arteries, thought to lead to heart attack.
5. ENDOCRINE SYSTEM
Adrenal glands
When the body is stressed, the brain sends signals from the hypothalamus, causing the adrenal cortex to produce cortisol and the adrenal medulla to produce epinephrine - sometimes called the "stress hormones".
Liver
When cortisol and epinephrine are released, the liver produces more glucose, a blood sugar that would give you the energy for "fight or flight" in an emergency. When your body stays in this state because of unmanaged stress, it becomes toxic to your liver and degeneration starts.
6. GASTROINTESTINAL SYSTEM
Oesophagus
Stress may prompt you to eat much more or much less than you usually do. If you eat more or different foods or increase your use of tobacco or alcohol, you may experience heartburn, or acid reflux.
Stomach
Your stomach can react with "butterflies" or even nausea or pain. You may vomit if the stress is severe enough.
Bowels
Stress can affect digestion and which nutrients your intestines absorb. It can also affect how quickly food moves through your body. You may find that you either have diarrhoea or constipation.
7. REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
In men, excess amounts of cortisol, produced under stress, can affect the normal functioning of the reproductive system. Chronic stress can impair testosterone and sperm production and cause impotence.
In women, stress can cause absent or irregular menstrual cycles or more painful periods. It can also reduce sexual desire.
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