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Detailed Reviews and Guides about energy and informational health and wellness

October 8, 2026 | Editorial

Vibroacoustic Stimulation Fetal

Vibroacoustic stimulation fetal produces changes in fetal heart rate and movement. This may make nonstress tests more effective, but the underlying mechanisms remain unknown.

This Cochrane Review was updated in September 2013. This update includes 12 new trials involving 6822 women. The results of this update showed that acoustic stimulation improved the effectiveness of antepartum non-stress testing.

Background

Vibroacoustic stimulation of the human fetus profoundly alters fetal behaviour and uterine rhythm. There are reports of severe fetal distress following this type of stimulation, resulting in tightening of the nuchal cord, bradycardia and caesarean section (Sherer 1988; Sherer 1991). In addition, there is concern that exposure of the fetus to this kind of sound can induce fetal’startle response’, which is a physiologic reflex to protect the fetus from intrauterine stressors. Despite these concerns, a number of authors have reported success using fetal vibroacoustic stimulation in conjunction with antepartum non-stress cardiotocography tests or other tests of fetal wellbeing and that this improves their predictive reliability.

A fetal startle test has been developed which uses a hand-held probe to apply a low frequency, high intensity vibroacoustic stimulus to the maternal abdomen. It is intended to mimic a fetal kick or a contraction. In one trial, the test was compared with the non-stress cardiotocography test and in the other with a standard fetal movement monitoring device. In both trials, the test was found to be superior to the standard fetal movement monitoring device in detecting reactive uterine tracings and predicting good fetal outcome at delivery.

In a further study of a group of patients with high-risk pregnancies, the sensitivity of the test was compared to a standard fetal heart rate trace and the fetal Apgar score at birth. The sensitivity of the test was 81% and specificity 89%, both of which were significantly improved over that of the fetal heart rate trace alone. Maternal perception of fetal movements in response to the vibration was also tested and found to have a good diagnostic performance (81% sensitivity and 90% specificity).

However, there is a lack of randomised controlled trials relating to important outcomes such as fetal hearing impairment or impaired neurological development, gestation at delivery and maternal satisfaction and anxiety. Randomised trials should be encouraged to evaluate not only the optimum frequency, intensity and duration of fetal vibroacoustic stimuli but also their effectiveness, safety and perinatal outcome in conjunction with cardiotocography and other tests of fetal wellbeing.

Methods

In studies on the use of external vibroacoustic stimulation in labor, varying methods and protocols have been used. Regardless of the method, the fetal response to acoustic stimulation is usually characterized by an acceleration of the fetal heart rate (FHR). A number of investigations have also described changes in fetal movement patterns during this test. The clinical significance of these changes is still unclear.

The ability of acoustic stimulation to elicit a rapid fetal heart rate response may be useful in decreasing the testing time for a biophysical profile and may result in fewer non-reassuring tests. However, the use of acoustic stimuli in human pregnancy has not yet been proven to be effective in reducing the false positive rates associated with nonreactive biophysical profiles.

A study of 435 normal second and third trimester pregnancies was undertaken to examine the effects of vibratory acoustic stimulation (VAS) on fetal movement (FM) and fetal heart rate (FHR). The fetal response to acoustic vibration, including the onset of FHR acceleration, was recorded using real-time ultrasound. A five-second VAS was given and FM and the amplitude of FHR acceleration were assessed.

The sensitivity of the fetal response to vibration was found to be high, and it was not affected by gestational age or maternal weight. The specificity of the test was 89%. In five cases where the fetal heart rate tracings were pathological, stimulation nevertheless produced a fetal movement and outcome was good. This was attributed to the fact that the fetal heart rate response to vibration is not modulated by maternal beta-adrenergic blocking drugs. This is supported by a case report in which chronic oral administration of propranolol was shown to depress the fetal response to vibratory acoustic stimulation in a patient with Marfan’s syndrome with existing aortic dilation.

Results

Vibroacoustic stimulation fetal is an easy to perform bed side test and has been shown to improve the sensitivity and specificity of non-stress tests (NST) for detecting fetal well being in high risk pregnancies. This study is a prospective clinical trial comparing the NST and VAST in 150 patients with high risk pregnancy fulfilling inclusion criteria. Using the VAST the sensitivity and specificity were found to be higher in predicting poor perinatal outcome than the NST alone.

The results from this study indicate that fetal vibroacoustic stimulation is able to elicit FHR accelerations and significantly reduce the false positive rate associated with NST. It can be used as a noninvasive adjunct to NST in antepartum monitoring to enhance the detection of fetal distress and to identify acidemic fetuses. It can also be used to distinguish between a fetus in labour and a fetus that is unwell.

In a previous study, the sound pressure level of the vibratory stimulus was measured in amniotic fluid using a hydrophone placed under the uterus. The sound intensity was found to increase with gestational age, which suggests that a portion of the fetal auditory system has matured by 28 weeks. This explains the higher sensitivity of the fetus to vibration at this stage.

It has also been shown that fetal movements are more reactive to acoustic stimulation at 36-40 weeks of gestation than at earlier gestational ages, suggesting a maturation of the auditory sensory and central nervous system. This explains why the frequency of fetal startle movement and blinking is also higher after VAS at 36-40 weeks of gestation compared with earlier gestational age groups.

The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive value of the fetal heart beat pattern obtained by VAS were 94.7%, 94.4%, and 75% respectively, whereas the sensitivity of the NST was only 68.7%, and the specificity was 91.6%. The VAS is therefore a more accurate and reliable fetal assessment tool in identifying high risk pregnancies. Moreover, it can be performed in addition to the NST with good fetal safety and efficiency.

Conclusions

Vibroacoustic stimulation is a simple bed side test that increases the specificity, positive predictive value and reduces the number of nonreassuring tests in high risk pregnancies. It is a valuable addition to NST, especially in fetuses that are unresponsive to NST and those with a low scalp blood pH. However, as with any test, it is important to understand its limitations. In particular, the response to vibroacoustic stimulation can be modulated by maternal medication such as beta-blockers and should be evaluated in those patients.

Fetal movement is inversely related to gestational age, and the ability of vibroacoustic stimulation to elicit fetal movement decreases with increasing gestational age. This may explain the sensitivity of NST to detect fetal movement and highlight the importance of considering gestational age in NST interpretation.

We have investigated the effects of gestational age on fetal heart rate (FHR) responses to vibroacoustic stimulation using a computerized analysis system. Observational data on 3453 pregnant women were collected and evaluated for 10-minute periods of nonstress testing (NST) and vibroacoustic stimulation (VAS). FHR parameters were analyzed according to gestational age. The mean baseline FHR and the percentage acceleration time in the VAS tracings differed significantly by gestational age. The results of this study demonstrate that a relationship exists between gestational age and the amplitude of FHR accelerations during NST and after VAS, which is similar to that observed with other noninvasive techniques.

Fetal responses to vibroacoustic stimulation can elicit periodic and nonperiodic FHR accelerations, decreasing the false positive rate associated with nonreactive nonstress testing. These results suggest that vibroacoustic stimulation has the potential to improve fetal acidosis diagnosis in labor and may be useful for screening and diagnosing fetal malignancy. A large prospective study is necessary to validate the clinical usefulness of this technique.

October 8, 2026 | Editorial

Biohacking – Optimizing Health and Wellbeing Using Science, Technology and Self-Experimentation

Unlike traditional healthcare that treats illness once symptoms appear, biohackers proactively optimize their health using ancestral wisdom and cutting-edge technology. This approach focuses on measurable outcomes and self-experimentation.

A growing number of practitioners utilize a range of biohacking techniques and technologies. These include: brainwave entrainment; breathing training; HRV (heart rate variability) monitors; and phage therapy.

Brainwave Entrainment

The brain is the center of our emotions and thoughts, and as a result, it can influence many different aspects of our lives. It can be hard to imagine that someone could hack into the brain of a person and control their thoughts and emotions, but this is actually a very real and present danger in our society. This type of technology has become a reality, and it is now possible for cybercriminals to alter the thinking of their victims through brainwave hacking techniques.

While this is a scary prospect, it is important to understand that there are also technologies that can be used for good, such as neurofeedback and brainwave entrainment. These technologies can help us learn how to control our minds, and they can be used to help with stress reduction and relaxation, as well as for improving focus and concentration.

One of the most significant developments in brainwave entrainment has been audio-visual entrainment (AVE). This combines sounds and visual stimuli to influence brainwave frequencies. For example, our Peak Power Hypnosis series in the Shop uses Isochronic tones and binaural beats, which create specific audio frequencies that cause your brain to align with those frequencies. This produces deep states of relaxation and heightened mental awareness.

More advanced applications of this technology are combining AVE with neurofeedback and hypnosis to create multi-sensory experiences that enhance your ability to focus and relax. You can find these sessions in the Hypnosis Shop along with Theta Binaural Beat AVE versions for deeper sleep and our Conscious Mind Primers to support deeper states of meditation.

Brain-Computer-Interfaces (BCI) are another emerging technology that is vulnerable to hacking. Researchers have demonstrated that it is technically feasible for third parties to manipulate software settings of a DBS system without the patient’s or clinician’s consent, which they refer to as ‘brainjacking’ (Pycroft et al. 2016).

Moreover, there is a growing ethical debate about whether it is ethical for individuals to use DBS to combat certain neuropsychiatric conditions, such as paraphilias. For example, it might be possible to use DBS to reduce sexual urges in a convicted sex offender, but there are concerns that the technology is not sufficiently transparent and does not adequately protect the individual’s decisional autonomy.

HRV Monitors

With tons of data on fitness, nutrition and health easily accessible, many people are taking matters into their own hands to optimize their performance. They are using strategies and techniques known as biohacking. This method uses science, technology and self-experimentation to change the body, nutrition, and lifestyle to improve health and wellbeing. It includes techniques such as wearable technology, biometric sensors, dietary modifications, and mental enhancement practices.

Some of the most popular biohacking technologies include wearable fitness trackers, sleep monitoring and physiological feedback devices. These tools provide personalized information about stress levels, recovery and exercise intensity, allowing users to adjust their workouts and daily routines accordingly. Many people use biohacking techniques to boost energy levels, improve focus and even extend their lifespan.

Heart rate variability (HRV) is a measure of how fast the nervous system responds to physical and emotional stressors, which can be an indicator of mental well-being. For example, a low HRV may indicate that someone is under excessive stress at work. It can also correlate with mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and burnout. Using apps like Bodywave, which combine physiological monitoring with stress management tools, can help people become aware of their HRV trends and make adjustments that promote mental and physical health.

Other biohacking methods include using supplements and nutritional strategies to enhance the immune system and fight age-related diseases. Genetic testing can also be used to identify predispositions to certain conditions and nutrient deficiencies, providing a foundation for personalised wellness plans. However, these methods can have serious risks and should be approached with caution.

Biohacking is also becoming increasingly popular among people with limited resources who wish to take control of their own health and wellbeing. With the right approach, this type of self-optimisation can be safe, convenient and effective. However, some techniques and tools are not suitable for everyone, and the long-term effects of some biohacking practices are unclear. It is therefore important to consult with a medical professional before starting any new biohacking protocols.

In addition to the aforementioned biohacking techniques, people can also increase their physical and psychological resilience by practicing stress reduction and mindfulness, boosting their diet with high-quality food, and reducing the impact of environmental factors on their health.

Wearable Fitness Trackers

When it comes to wellness and optimal performance, many people are taking matters into their own hands. This is called biohacking. Biohacking is a set of techniques and tools that help people optimize their health, fitness and mental performance. It can include everything from dietary modifications to nootropic supplements and PEMF devices. Its goal is to help improve health and performance and potentially extend lifespan. It is important to note that results may vary from person to person.

The biohacking movement is based on the idea that we can use data-driven methods to optimise physical and mental function, and potentially extend longevity. It focuses on preventive healthcare, rather than treating diseases after they occur. This reflects an emerging perspective that views ageing as a disease, and it can be addressed through lifestyle, dietary and technology interventions.

Some of the most popular biohacking technologies are wearable fitness trackers. These can measure and monitor a number of important factors, including sleep, nutrition, and activity. They can also help track progress towards health and fitness goals, which is crucial for ensuring consistency. These devices are often used in combination with smartphone apps, which provide valuable insights and help users fine-tune their practices.

Another common tool is red light therapy (photobiomodulation). This is a form of low-level laser therapy that can be done at home, and it has been shown to stimulate hair growth, reduce acne, promote wound healing, and enhance skin elasticity. It is also believed to stimulate mitochondrial energy production, and increase cellular oxygenation, which can lead to improved energy levels and mental clarity.

The goal of biohacking is to optimize one’s health and wellbeing, and to achieve peak performance in all areas. This can be achieved through various techniques and tools, including dietary modification, exercise, nootropic supplements, meditation, and brain-computer interfaces. It is important to note that these practices and tools may not be suitable for everyone, and they can be dangerous if not used correctly. Therefore, it is always recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

October 8, 2026 | Editorial

Kirk Cousins Uses Neurofeedback to Improve Focus and Control

Kirk Cousins, Minnesota Vikings quarterback, reveals on Netflix’s Quarterback Episode four that neurofeedback is a daily part of his mental training regime to help him focus and control emotions. Like biofeedback, neurofeedback uses a headset to monitor brainwaves and display them on a computer screen in real time so you can learn how to improve your behavior.

Improved Sleep

Football is a highly demanding sport that requires split-second decisions, which means that athletes must be in peak physical condition and be able to remain calm and focused under pressure. Kirk Cousins, quarterback of the Minnesota Vikings, revealed in Episode 4 of Netflix’s Quarterback show that he uses neurofeedback brain training to improve focus and self-control over emotions. He uses an app called Myndlift that combines remote neurofeedback with Muse brain training headband to help him train for focus and calmness during games.

Neurofeedback is a non-invasive, drug-free way to help manage conditions like ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, stress anxiety and depression and improve overall mental health. It can also assist in improving sleep, which is a crucial factor for athletes in achieving optimal performance. Several apps and headbands that provide personalized, remote neurofeedback services (including Myndlift and the Muse brain training headband) can help individuals track their sleeping patterns and optimize their sleep routine for increased performance.

October 8, 2026 | Editorial

Holistic Medicine Practitioners Near Me

Holistic medicine offers a forward-thinking alternative to healthcare. Unlike traditional medical practices, which often focus on managing symptoms, holistic health examines the entire patient and all of their factors that contribute to disease or wellness.

When exploring options for holistic practitioners near me, prioritize those with strong credentials and a diverse array of therapies. A good holistic clinic will also emphasize a strong patient care philosophy.

Credentials

Having credible credentials is an important factor when choosing a holistic medicine practitioner. Many holistic healthcare practitioners have advanced degrees in their field and are board certified. They can also offer a variety of therapies, including massage, nutrition counseling, acupuncture, and yoga. Some have even earned certification as integrative medicine experts, which further demonstrates their ability to provide comprehensive care.

Nashville’s best holistic health specialists are connected to prestigious institutions, such as The Institute of Functional Medicine and Weill Cornell Medicine. This enables them to bring together the latest scientific breakthroughs with time-honored natural remedies for optimal wellness. These healthcare providers take a comprehensive approach to patient care, which includes dissecting your symptoms and finding the root cause. They then develop a personalized treatment plan to promote healing from the inside out.

Many holistic doctors have remote monitoring and telehealth devices that can allow you to check your vital signs in between appointments. These devices can track things like weight, heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels to ensure your condition is being managed effectively. If your physician recommends the use of such a device, make sure to ask about its benefits and limitations.

You may also want to find out if your holistic doctor has hospital affiliations. This can help ensure that your condition is being managed at a quality facility in the event of a severe flare-up or emergency situation. On your Healthgrades search results page, you can filter for this information by selecting “Affiliated Facility” under “All Filters.”

Caring for a loved one with a chronic condition can be a stressful and emotional undertaking. In such cases, your holistic doctor may recommend a local support group for caregivers. These resources can help you find respite care for a short period of time, which can reduce your stress level and restore your own well-being. In addition, some holistic physicians have a patient advocate on staff to guide you through your healthcare coverage and financial assistance options. You can view this option by selecting it under the “Features” section of your search results page.

Therapies

Holistic healing is a patient-centered approach that treats the whole person, not just symptoms. It includes natural therapies, dietary changes, and emotional support. This type of therapy is often more effective than traditional treatments and can be used in conjunction with other therapies to speed healing. It can also help prevent future problems. The time it takes to see results varies depending on the person and the type of treatment used. For example, some people may notice a difference after just one session, while others may need several sessions before seeing significant results.

A holistic medicine doctor is a licensed medical professional who uses a combination of conventional medicine and alternative therapies to treat patients. They use a variety of therapies, including massage therapy, acupuncture, and herbal remedies. They are trained to evaluate and monitor patients’ health, and they work with other healthcare providers to provide a comprehensive and coordinated care plan. They also use a variety of tests to diagnose and treat illnesses.

Functional medicine is a type of holistic practice that addresses the root cause of disease. It focuses on preventing and reversing chronic conditions, not just treating symptoms. It uses the latest scientific research and holistic approaches to achieve optimal wellness.

Nashville’s holistic healing practitioners are experts in restoring balance to mind, body, and spirit. Their success stories are proof that this is a truly transformative practice. Many of them offer integrative medicine, which combines the latest medical science with time-honored natural therapies. Sanctuary Functional Medicine, for example, combines scientific breakthroughs with personalized care.

A holistic healer understands that each person has a unique bio-individual response to the environment, lifestyle, and relationships. They also believe that the body has an inherent wisdom to restore balance and promote wellbeing. Practitioners who have a deep connection to cultural traditions are able to connect their clients with rich sources of spiritual renewal and community. These healers can help their clients overcome trauma and find peace. They can also help them develop a healthy lifestyle that is sustainable in the long term. According to Zippia, a graduate with a holistic healing degree can pursue a career in healthcare and earn an average annual salary of $51,523.

Patient care philosophy

In holistic healing, doctors work as partners with patients to support their innate healing abilities. They also recognize that physical, emotional, mental and spiritual wellness are all connected. The patient-centered approach to holistic care may include nutritional counseling, herbal medicine, acupuncture and stress management techniques. Unlike conventional treatments that focus on suppressing symptoms, holistic treatments address the underlying causes of illness.

According to the Academy of Integrative Health and Medicine (AIHM), a holistic physician considers your current state of health and well-being in a comprehensive manner. A holistic assessment includes a discussion of dietary patterns, sleep quality, stress levels and toxic exposures. It also looks at your life purpose, character strengths and fundamental existential dimensions like joy and sexuality.

Holistic practitioners also offer a variety of natural and alternative therapies, including dietary changes, herbal medicines, nutritional supplements, mind-body exercises and stress management techniques. This approach provides a more balanced and complete treatment plan than traditional medical options, which can be limited to surgery, medication or pharmaceuticals.

When searching for a holistic doctor near me, choose one who has a clear philosophy and offers a wide range of therapies. You should also prioritize providers with credible credentials and a commitment to continuing education. Some holistic practitioners, such as Sanctuary Functional Medicine in Nashville, provide an integrated approach to healthcare that combines medical expertise with multiple alternative treatment modalities.

A holistic doctor can help treat a range of health conditions and wellness goals, from chronic pain to digestive disorders, hormonal imbalances and autoimmune issues. They can also assist with preventive measures, such as optimized nutrition, improved fitness and long-term disease prevention.

Many people use the terms holistic, functional and integrative interchangeably, but they are not the same. In general, holistic doctors follow a root-cause approach to care, while functional and integrative medicine blend conventional treatment with evidence-based complementary therapies. For example, a functional medicine doctor may use advanced testing like stool analysis or food sensitivity panels to develop personalized treatment plans.

Holistic health practitioners often collaborate with other health professionals, such as nutritionists and therapists, to help you achieve optimal wellness. They may refer you to a naturopathic doctor or psychiatrist, for example, when treating anxiety and depression. They also can coordinate with your primary care doctor to manage your treatment plan and ensure continuity of care.

Value

Choosing an experienced holistic practitioner is vital in the quest for optimal health. In addition to credentials, you should also consider the clinic’s patient care philosophy. This should align with your goals for treatment and healing, such as an emphasis on self-care and preventive health. The ideal practitioner will be able to connect you with a deep cultural wellspring of traditional healing techniques such as Chinese medicine, Ayurveda and Indigenous healing.

The goal of holistic healthcare is to treat the whole person, body, mind and spirit, rather than just the symptoms of a specific disease or condition. It incorporates diet, lifestyle changes and natural therapies, often in conjunction with modern Western medical treatments like pharmaceutical drugs. It also promotes the importance of social and emotional support, as well as a healthy environment.

While traditional medicine zeroes in on a specific body part, holistic doctors use a kaleidoscope to look at the entire picture of your health. They search for the underlying causes of your illness and develop a wellness plan that includes both modern and holistic practices.

There are many crossover healthcare professionals who offer a blend of holistic and modern medicine, such as osteopathic doctors (DO), who receive the same education as MDs and have special training in manual manipulation of your musculoskeletal system. There are also naturopathic physicians, who combine traditional medicine with whole-body approaches, and acupuncturists, who use needles to rebalance your body’s energy.

Holistic practitioners do not have to be licensed or certified by an educational institution, but many of them have obtained a degree in a field such as integrative or complementary medicine, naturopathy, acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage therapy, yoga, Tai Chi and Reiki. In addition, many have studied the philosophies and healing traditions of a number of cultures, including Chinese, Ayurvedic and indigenous.

While it is important to select a holistic practitioner with credible credentials, it is just as important to read reviews and testimonials. These personal stories and experiences can give you a glimpse of a practitioner’s attention to detail and level of compassion, which can have a profound impact on your health journey.

October 8, 2026 | Editorial

Are You a Natural Born Healer?

Are you able to understand what others are feeling without them even saying it? Do you feel a strong urge to help people, whether it’s healing their souls or bodies? You may be a natural born healer.

Healing is a holistic process. Healers don’t suppress symptoms but rather work with Nature to eradicate them.

1. You’re a natural healer

If you have four or more parallel lines on the bottom of your little finger, it’s a sign that you are a natural healer. These lines represent the Throat Chakra, ruled by Hermes, the ancient god of communication and healing. This sign indicates that you are a natural born healer and you can transmit and alter energy.

People often feel comfortable opening up to you and sharing their problems with you. They do this because of the unseen web of energy you emit. You can easily connect to their energy system and heal them from within. You are also likely to be followed by animals, just like witches do.

2. You’re an empath

If you feel a strong connection to people, are sensitive to their moods and emotions, and often find yourself picking up on their feelings like a psychic paper towel (or at least that’s what it feels like to some), then you are likely an empath. This is a term that has been described both spiritually and psychologically, with some people describing it as a form of empathy or intuition while others refer to it as a heightened sensitivity of the nervous system.

Being an empath is not a disease or a bad thing; however, being an empath does come with some challenges that can create stress if not managed properly. For example, if you spend a lot of time in public places you may experience over-stimulation which can cause you to over-empathize with the people around you and take on their energy. Over time, this can lead to chronic fatigue and a struggle to discern your own feelings from the emotions of others.

In addition, many empaths have a strong sense of “knowing,” so you may be able to tell if someone is lying or has some major issues in their life. It is also common for empaths to pick up physical symptoms from their loved ones, especially if they are close to them. It is important for empaths to have quiet, alone time so that they can recharge their batteries and avoid getting overloaded.

The good news is that by understanding and managing your sensitivity, you can transform it into one of the most powerful healing tools in your toolkit. In order to do that, you will need to learn how to ground yourself and protect your energetic boundaries so that you don’t take on too much of the world’s emotional burden. Here are some tips to help you do just that!

3. You’re a great listener

If tears spring to your eyes during others’ sad stories, it’s a sign that you carry a natural empathy. Even strangers open up to you easily, sensing that they’ll be understood.

Good listening is a skill that can be learned, but it’s also a way of being. You’ll want to make eye contact, be attentive without interrupting, and show interest by reflecting back what the other person has just said. You’ll want to ask questions that will improve the flow of conversation, and you’ll probably find yourself rephrasing what you heard just to be sure that you really got it.

In a recent study, University of Haifa psychologist Guy Itzchakov and collaborators found that the best way to increase your ability to listen well is to consciously and deliberately practice the ten behaviors that define great listening. These include making eye contact, reflecting back what’s been said, asking open-ended questions, and responding to conversations by paraphrasing or summarizing. Their research supports decades of previous studies that have found that good listening is a key factor in the development of healthy and satisfying social relationships.

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