Biofeedback is a process where biological or neurological (in which case it would be neurofeedback) systems are monitored by a device, and information is fed back from the device to the individual (or a doctor stood next to said individual). This allows us to monitor, regulate, investigate and learn about various bodily functions, processes and states.

This is used medically of course but I’m more interested here in the increasing use of biofeedback by self-help enthusiasts. For example, say a guy wants to regulate his stress level. He might use a biofeedback machine measuring galvanic skin conductance, heart rate, or something like that. The machine will beep or flash in accordance with his measured stress levels. This allows the guy to learn how to control his stress levels – he can try deep breathing, muscle relaxation, mediation; anything, and see the results in the device. Using the biofeedback machine, he’ll find a way to reduce his stress level, which he can then apply in his life.

The best thing, is that this is scientific, and quantitative. He doesn’t have to take the advice of gurus or rely on folklore, nor does he have to make ‘guestimates’ about what therapies work best for him, which might be blinded by what he wished would work. He’ll know what technique is the best and by how much.

Biofeedback Machines

Matt Ward demonstrates an ear-mounted biofeedback device and Wing Chun Kung Fu at the same time. (Photo Credit).

I could refer to them as biofeedback devices. That might be more accurate…but it’s just… not as cool! I like the term ‘biofeedback machines’, makes them sound like The Terminator or something.

No matter how cool that sounds, some biofeedback self-monitoring gadgets you are quite familiar with. Here are a few of the more common ones:

• Blood pressure monitor
• Heart rate monitor
• Pedometer (OK… walking is not a biological system exactly, but it can tell you by proxy a lot about these sytems, your habits, and perhaps some psychological function of how lazy you are..or not! So it’s in the same spirit from a self-help point of view)
• Electrencephalogram
• Electrodermal response machine
• Electromyogram
• Polygraph (lie detector)
• Thermometer

Biofeedback is used by medical professionals (obviously), personal development enthusiasts, athletes, peak performance coaches, and hobbyists. Anyone who will benefit from more accurate, quantitative data about themselves will benefit from biofeedback.

Here’s a quick introduction video to biofeedback from the University of East Carolina:

Why the interest?

He simply could not look more like an evil genius. (photo credit).

I’m a compulsive record keeper. It started when I was about 14 and got a set of weights. I created my own system of recording workouts (I still use a similar system today), and after that I was recording all kinds of nerdy things, and it wasn’t long before I got interested in biofeedback. I’m not the most hardcore self-tracker – I know someone who has detailed records of themselves and their family covering large stretches of time – but what I lack in intensity I make up for in general interest.

More comprehensive introduction

I’ve what you’ve seen and read so far has piqued your interest, check out the following video series for a more comprehensive introduction:

Told you it was comprehensive.

Fun Stuff – Brain to Twitter Interface

Researchers at the university of Wisconsin have developed a way for people to send tweets using only the power of their minds (well, mind power and some sophisticated neurofeedback technology…).

This technology has massive potential. For one thing, it would allow quadriplegics and other physically disabled individuals to carry a number of functions they would not ordinarily be able to do. If neurofeedback can send a tweet, it’s not a great step to be able to control the lights in your house, change the radio station, write an email, and so on. Although the technology is in its infancy, this is some serious headway that’s being made! Plus it’s just… cool.

You can follow the Tweets of the lab here. The ones in all caps were send using the brain-twitter interface!