Self-Optimization Principle The brain inherently runs a self-optimizing program that is constantly pruning neuronal connections that are not in use and adding new neuronal connections and hubs where required. Neurofeedback plugs into this self-optimization program, giving the brain the ability to learn quickly and effortlessly. The NeurOptimal ® Neurofeedback system recognizes the unconscious mind learns at a much faster rate than the conscious mind can work. This is a very different than other neurofeedback or biofeedback systems, which require clients to consciously learn to control their brainwave activity in order to benefit from the feedback.
Brain Wave Balance Neurofeedback provides the brain & nervous system with a moment-by-moment picture of how it is operating, mirroring it back to the brain. The feedback, which is a small break in the music, allows the brain to identify areas of wave frequency instability or “stress”, thus using this information to begin the self-optimization process. Over time, the frequencies remain regulated and the brain and nervous system are measurably different than before the training.
An EEG (electroencephalogram) is a recording of the electrical activity of the brain. Brain wave frequencies are measured in Hertz, which is defined as wave cycles per second. Brain frequencies range from the lowest and slowest Delta waves, to Theta waves, to Alpha waves, to Beta waves, to the highest and fastest Gamma waves above 38 Hertz. Bandwidths of brain frequencies are associated with different states of consciousness.
Client Hookup consists of silver electrodes, applied to the client’s ears & scalp, centered between the ear and the crown of the head on the bony ridge (Central points C3 & C4). The electrodes are applied with EEG paste. It is water soluble electrical conductance material composed primarily of salts that enhances the monitoring of the minute electrical pulses of the brain.
Z-amp™ Amplifies Signals The electrode sensors pick-up the brain’s electrical signal and send that signal down a conductance wire to the Zengar Z-amp™. The Z-amp™ filters line noise and amplifies the brain wave signal. Other neurofeedback data looks “smeared” in comparison NeurOptimal’s ® data, due to a sampling rate of 256 samples per second, coupled with incredible precision of filtering, targeting, and triggering of feedback. At no time are electrical signals fed back to the brain.
Signal Separation into Frequencies and Intensities Left and right brain wave signals are separated by the computer software into their component frequencies and intensities. Intensity, for these purposes, is defined as a measure of the amount of electrical signal generated.
Non-linear Statistical Analysis of Data This continuous data set is analyzed over time using non-linear statistics in order to determine when the brain and nervous system enter into a period of “unstable” operation. Unstable periods are identified within milliseconds and feedback is given in the form of a pause in the music.
Variables of Time, Frequency, and Intensity Feedback is determined by continuously tracking the 3 variables of time, frequency, and intensity. This is called Joint time frequency analysis (JTFA).
Zen Modes The NeurOptimal® software automatically moves through four different modes called Zen 1,2, 3, & 4. These modes are similar to a warm up stretch, a weight training challenge, a cardiovascular endurance, and a cool down period to integrate the learning.
Modes
Exercise
Difference between Modes
Zen 1
Warm up
Both sides of the brain are trained separately over all frequencies, no comparison between sides
Zen 2
Weight lift
Both sides of the brain are trained together within each separate target range
Zen 3
Endurance
Both sides of the brain are trained together over all frequencies at the same time
Zen 4
Cool down
Integration of learning