NeurOptimal Neurofeddback -Rental FAQs
Explainer video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYs2tpF5Kko
Self-Hookup: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i7AzqO7ZC8I&t=14s
What is Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback is an advanced neuro-technology that offers training to the brain, enabling it to function at its best. Like training at the gym neurofeedback trains the brain to be fit, strong, flexible and resilient.
Is it Safe?
Neurofeedback is 100% non-invasive. The system does not put anything into your brain, nor does it take anything out. It is simply mirroring your brain to itself to help bring your brain back to the present moment. So safe, it can be used on children.
If you do feel any effects (whether this is comfortable or uncomfortable) this is just a response by your central nervous system to the challenge of training, as your brain is working very hard (you have essentially given your brain a workout). The main thing to remember, it is temporary and usually disappears in the hours following the session and does not reoccur after a few sessions once the brain becomes stronger and more resilient.
Everyone can benefit from a neurofeedback session. You may have rented this machine for someone in particular or yourself. The great thing about Neurofeedback is it’s for everyone, so make the most of it!
What do I do in a session?
Basically nothing, or anything you want! You don’t need to be looking at the screen during a session. Because Neurofeedback works outside of conscious awareness there is no need to focus on the screen or sound. That means whilst training you could be sleeping, reading a book, playing a game on your phone (with no sound) or even just simply relaxing. It’s up to you. It is completely effortless.
A Neurofeedback session time is 33 mins. Attaching the sensors and removing them, along with cleaning up will take approximately 5-10 minutes all up! Therefore, training with Neurofeedback should be a breeze and easy to incorporate into your daily life.
Before and after the session, try avoiding stimulants such as coffee, tea, alcohol, and drugs.
How do I know I hooked it up right?
Don’t stress about sensor placement. What we say is “Close enough is good enough”. Follow the instructional video above. If the sensors come off during a session accidentally, just place it back on and let the session continue.
How do I know if the system is working? You will hear the music along with ‘scratches’ in the music (like the music is broken) after you right-click and start a session in the Vault.
What is actually happening in a session?
As you listen to music, you will hear the scratchy interruptions (like the music is broken) and this is the brain generating feedback via the computer software. Live feedback from your own brain activity (EEG) detected by the sensors.
Will I notice anything throughout the session? Some may feel sensations in their body or head, like tingling or warmth, or they may feel nothing. These sensations are not related to the effectiveness of the session, and are just an indication of changes happening in the nervous system.
How many sessions do I need?
Like most things, to get the best results, neurofeedback is not a quick fix. It requires regular sessions to allow your brain and central nervous system to train itself in a healthier and more optimal form. The total number of sessions will vary for different individuals, depending on what each person would like to achieve out of it. On average people require between 15-25 sessions. Most people however, don’t need to wait this long to see the benefits, some will start seeing benefits after the first few. Some people will see a dramatic shift, while others are slower in their change. In fact, it might be such a subtle change to some individuals it goes unnoticed. This occurs at a deeper level and outside their conscious awareness.
How often do I need to do these sessions? Like any training, repetition is what helps set the skills in place, so we recommend two sessions per week to achieve faster outcomes. However, most people can achieve their desired results through one session per week. After adequate sessions, a decrease in frequency can be obtained.
Listen to what you need. You know yourself better than anyone which means you are the only one who can determine how frequently to train. More does not necessarily equate to better, but with regular training, your brain learns and changes.
Do the effects last?
Changes remain with you through your lifetime. While you still may experience symptoms you previously had such as stress and anxiety, they will often be less frequent, less intense, and won’t last as long. As the saying goes, ‘it’s like riding a bike’. Once you know how, you don’t forget.
Keep in mind, factors such as new life stressors, hormones, head injuries, drugs, alcohol, and chemicals etc., can require additional sessions to help get back on track and return to optimal levels.
Can I track my progress?
There are many ways to track progress, if you need help, talk to us about options. However, the best thing is to just keep an open mind and an eye on your day-to-day functioning looking for any little change.
What if I don’t notice anything?
Again, drop us a line and we will be able to help. The changes can be quite subtle at the beginning so don’t worry if you have not noticed much. Sometimes it can be useful to ask people around you who know you well or start tracking some of the things you normally struggle with.
