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Brain Biofeedback

One way to improve brain function is to stimulate certain levels of consciousness—in particular, those that result in particular brain waves. This is accomplished with an important form of biofeedback I developed called respiratory biofeedback. The procedure is very similar to EEG (electroencephalograph) biofeedback, or neurofeedback, which helps improve brain function by increasing alpha wave production. Increases of this brain wave can not only help overall brain function but reduce unwanted stress hormones. Like with manual biofeedback (see chapter 25), respiratory biofeedback can also be performed without costly equipment.

All athletes can benefit from respiratory biofeedback, which not only helps the brain but the body as well. This biofeedback can reduce high levels of stress hormones to improve adrenal function and fat burning, control blood sugar, and other benefits such as correcting and preventing muscle imbalance. We can use it on ourselves as a quick, effective daily remedy to improve overall health. Respiratory biofeedback can also be performed before other physical therapies are used to help improve the efficacy of these remedies (and sometimes eliminate their necessity). For example, before getting a hands-on treatment from a chiropractor or osteopath, respiratory therapy can help prepare your body for these other therapies. In fact, some health-care professionals use respiratory biofeedback on their patients.

Respiratory biofeedback is associated with a number of significant health benefits that can also improve fitness:

 

 

It can increase oxygen to the brain, potentially improving a variety of neurological imbalances. This is accomplished through more efficient breathing that brings more air into the lungs and more oxygen to the brain.Respiratory feedback can help restore and improve normal breathing. Improper breathing is often associated with brain and spinal cord injuries, and is sometimes a hidden problem even in relatively healthy athletes.It can help improve the function of the diaphragm and abdominal muscles. In addition to breathing, these muscles play a significant role in physical activity, improving posture and supporting the spine and pelvis.Because of its effect on the brain and nervous system, respiratory biofeedback can help improve the function of other muscles in the body as well, and help reduce pain—two reasons to perform this procedure before other manual biofeedback.It can help reduce harmful stress hormones, especially cortisol, balance the autonomic nervous system, and promote muscle relaxation—all very important features for a healthier brain and body.