How do I use the neurofeedback home device?
Neurofeedback is a safe, effective home brain-training treatment that can help enhance focus and sleep, manage anxiety and stress levels, reduce ADHD symptoms and more. While traditionally conducted under professional guidance using specialized equipment, with today’s consumer EEG and fNIRS brain training wearables it’s now possible to train your own mind at home!
Consumer neurofeedback devices tend to rely on EEG technology, with some offering both EEG and fNIRS sensors. While EEG measures electrical activity from neurons, fNIRS (functional near-infrared spectroscopy) detects changes in blood flow and oxygenation to specific areas of the brain – for instance, Mendi headband uses this feature to track activity in its prefrontal cortex area which is associated with self-awareness, emotion regulation, and decision making.
Your brainwaves will typically be displayed either as an audio track or visual representation, showing either peak and valley activity on-screen. When focused and relaxed, these devices usually only give feedback; otherwise they’ll briefly pause and prompt you to return focus.
Some devices utilize virtual reality for an engaging experience, visualizing brain activity in dynamic ways. Unfortunately, the specialized VR gear necessary for such technologies can be costly.
NeurOptimal is an advanced medical-grade neurofeedback system specifically tailored for clinical use, offering dynamic neurofeedback technology with automatic adjustments of protocols compared with traditional devices that rely on practitioner assessments and manual adjustments of protocols.
When purchasing a neurofeedback device, look for one that is FDA-approved and conduct scientific research on it. Also speak to your doctor prior to starting any brain training programs. While headaches following neurofeedback sessions are rare, they could occur as your brain adjusts to new patterns. Most headaches happen early on; with practice they should subside. If one should arise though, drink lots of water and relax for a few days as this should allow time for your mind to heal before restarting training again.
