Can humans create their realities? This question has boggled the minds of neuroscientists and psychologists alike.
You’ve probably listened through multiple pep talks nudging you to create your own reality by aligning your inner thoughts with your expectations. In fact, various traditional practices like yoga and meditation draw from the notion that humans can (consciously or subconsciously) control their brains.
Well, it turns out that creating our realities isn’t just wishful thinking. Emerging research suggests we can control our emotions and thought patterns by urging our neurons in particular directions. That’s the whole idea behind neurofeedback.
In this post, we shall narrow down our focus to neurofeedback home devices and how to pick the right one. But for the uninitiated, let’s start by unpacking what this concept is all about.
Neurofeedback in a Nutshell
Neurofeedback is a facet of biofeedback that uses the brain’s electrical potentials to reinforce specific mental states through operant conditioning. It’s an ingenious way to teach the brain self-control, allowing it to create the desired emotional and mental outcomes. The process can be performed in both specialized clinics and at home.
Choosing the best neurofeedback home device is critical if you’re planning to self-administer the procedure. Besides providing actionable physiological data, the right neurofeedback devices also guarantee long-term safety and reliability.
At-home neurofeedback training is particularly recommended for its convenience. Note that this technique relies heavily on complete mental relaxation, which is easier to achieve in a home rather than an outdoor setting.
How Does Neurofeedback Work?
Neurofeedback utilizes electroencephalography (EEG) to collect critical brain activity data. The accuracy of the collected information depends on the subject’s mental state and the neurofeedback protocol used. Common protocols include quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG), functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), near-infrared spectroscopy-mediated (fNIRS), and hemoencephalography biofeedback (HEG).
Each protocol provides actionable electroencephalography insights, which you can rely on to effect the desired brainwave adjustments.
Neurofeedback may offer multiple therapeutic benefits, such as improving mental focus and relieving stress. Studies also reveal a strong correlation between brainwave manipulation and insomnia. Besides, the practice may aid recovery from head trauma and enhance athletic performance.
How to Pick the Best Neurofeedback Home Device
1. Know What’s In the Package
Most neurofeedback home devices come in three parts.
The primary components are EEG sensors that measure brainwaves, typically via hertz (Hz) frequencies.
Next is a software program that collects and interprets brain activity and determines when to offer feedback.
Lastly, a feedback system provides timely alerts, usually via an auditory and/or visual medium.
2. Understand How the Device Works
Home neurofeedback gadgets are typically non-invasive. However, invasive options exist as well.
Non-invasive neurofeedback devices utilize auditory or visual cues to produce the desired mental state. Meanwhile, invasive gadgets rely on brain stimulation, usually via micro-current.
3. Research the Brand
The neurofeedback market teems with dozens of brands, each keen on pitching its devices as the best there are. It’s imperative to research each biofeedback brand extensively before purchasing their products.
Invest in user reviews and customer testimonials for a better understanding of other people’s experience working with the gadget. Ultimately, pick the highest-rated neurofeedback home device.
4. Analyze the Device’s User-friendliness
You don’t need to be high-tech to get the hang of a neurofeedback home device. That said, it’s best to sample these gadgets and pick the most user-friendly.
Look out for products with a clear and intuitive display screen. The screen’s menu should be easy to navigate, with all important icons strikingly visible.
5. Test the Equipment’s Compatibility
The best neurofeedback home device should sync easily with your electronic devices, including smartphones and computers. This improves accuracy while tracking and analyzing EEG data.
For seamless compatibility, insist on wireless or Bluetooth-enabled gadgets.
6. Prioritize Devices That Offer Real-Time Feedback
Immediate feedback is an essential feature in neurofeedback home devices. With real-time alerts, you can better understand your physiological responses and urge your mind on the right path.
More importantly, choose a gadget that provides both subjective and objective feedback. Subjective feedback is self-reported and may be somewhat biased, while a professional extensively analyzes objective feedback after the training and is typically bias-free.
7. Understand Available Data Visualization and Tracking Methods
It’s not enough to choose a neurofeedback home device that provides auditory and visual insights into your brainwave activity. There should also be an elaborate system for tracking your physiological responses over a considerable duration.
This provides a better understanding of your mental development so you can make informed decisions.
8. Battery Life and Portability Matter Too
Everyone deserves a neurofeedback device that can rise to the occasion when required. Look out for products with long-lasting, quick-charging batteries. The last thing you want is to have the gadget’s battery run out mid-training.
Besides, choose a portable neurofeedback device. Although designed for at-home training, these gadgets should be light and equipped with proper attachments for on-the-go usage.
9. Don’t Forget the Price
Neurofeedback home devices vary considerably in price. The conventional wisdom is to define your budget before you hit the stores.
Even then, choose a gadget that perfectly balances functionality and affordability.
Final Word
Research on neurofeedback’s efficacy is still a work in progress. Therefore, it’s important to manage your expectations even as you administer neurofeedback training at home.
Besides, beware of neurofeedback brands that purport to guarantee definitive benefits. You may also want to consult a licensed medical practitioner before integrating these devices into your lifestyle.
Read More From Techbullion
