A personal journey of discovery: Neurofeedback

In today’s world, with the many added stressors that we can encounter on a day to day basis, we need to have an arsenal of tools that we can use to help us - not just get by, but also to thrive.

One of those tools that I use is NeurOptimal® neurofeedback. Not only do I use it myself, I advocate for others to also use this amazing system.

The story leading up to how I came to find neurofeedback is a pretty common one. I was nursing full time and not sleeping well, and with 3 children at home and the added pressure of various other external factors, I finally felt like I was about to hit a brick wall – and soon! – if I didn’t do something about it. I had heard of neurofeedback, and then by chance met a lovely lady who practised it from her home. After talking to her about it I decided to investigate it further. Now let me just state now, with my nursing background and nerdy disposition, I was determined to not just let Dr Google tell me things I wanted to hear! So I launched myself into the evidence and research and peer reviews. I read a whole lot about other people’s experience with neurofeedback. There were so many positive reports. I found out neurofeedback itself has been around for 40 years, and it firmly has its roots in the neurosciences. The particular system I was considering trying has been around for 20 years and had clocked up over 3 million hours of use world-wide.

So I took a deep breath and tried it. And I was so glad I did. I felt more relaxed and less stressed after my very first experience. It was a very enjoyable session, even blissful. Sitting back and listening to some chilled out tunes, it was my time to switch off and fully unwind. I decided to continue with the sessions, and the more I did, the better I felt. It was one of several tools I used (along with meditation and self-compassion) to help me heal and live a more balanced life. And it is one of favourites as it is so effortless and enjoyable.

The reason why I tell everyone about it, and why I am now a certified trainer, is simple – everyone can benefit from it. It helps train the brain to become more optimised. It can help increase performance (elite athletes and business executives use it), resilience and focus. It can help decrease stress, anxieties and sleep disturbances. It has helped people who have had traumatic brain injuries and strokes. The latest research shows that it can be beneficial to people who live with peripheral neuropathy.

I must make it clear that NeurOptimal® neurofeedback is not a therapy or treatment – it is simply a tool to help train the brain, and facilitate it to become more resilient and flexible. Who would not want that?