Neuro-relaxation|Neuroplasticity
We live in a frantic world. There are constant demands on our time and attention. Feeling like we have to be productive all of the time can leave us feeling stressed, anxious and overwhelmed. Neuro-relaxation is a treatment that can help us to cope with these demands in a more positive way.
Modern technology designed to make our lives easier has in some ways added to the pressure, particularly in the case of smartphones and social media. So, it's great to be able to use the most up to date science to reset our frazzled brains.
Here's how Neuro-Relaxation works....
WHAT IS NEURO-RELAXATION?
Neuro-relaxation is based on the principle of brainwave entrainment. Brainwave entrainment is where practitioners expose our brainwaves to a repetitive stimulus, sound, or light, which causes them to change frequency. The changes in brainwave activity can then produce a state of relaxation.
The treatment is safe and non-invasive and can help reduce stress and anxiety. It can also improve mood and cognitive function. Neuro-relaxation is an effective treatment for many mental health issues, such as depression, PTSD and OCD to name a few.
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THE SCIENCE BEHIND NEURO-RELAXATION
Neuro-relaxation therapy aims to promote neuroplastic change in the structure or function of brain cells. In other words, it changes the brain's ability to establish and reorganise synaptic connections, particularly in response to learning, stressful experiences, or after injury.
Typically, neuroplasticity entails 'rewiring' the brain neurons, also known as the brain's information messengers. Internal or external forces can drive this development. In the case of neuro-relaxation, the driver is the repetitive stimulus of the combined audio and visual techniques.
Research has shown that Neuro-Relaxation can:
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Improve mood
- Enhance cognitive function
- Help with mental health issues such as depression, PTSD, and OCD
- Improve your physical health with a more robust immune system
HOW NEURO-RELAXATION WORKS PRACTICALLY
Neuro-relaxation works by using a combination of audio and visual stimuli to change your brainwaves. The audio component uses binaural beats (two different tones in each ear).
The changing frequency between the two tones produces a third tone, called the carrier wave. This carrier wave is what changes your brainwaves.
The visual component of neuro-relaxation uses flashing lights synchronised with the binaural beats. This syncing of light and sound helps to entrain your brainwaves further and produce a state of deep relaxation.
There are many different effective combinations or themes to choose from, and your healthcare practitioner will guide you through the choices.
THE NEURO-RELAXATION PROCESS
During a neuro-relaxation session, you will be seated or reclining in a comfortable position. Depending on your specific treatment plan, you will wear headphones and may use eyeshades. The therapist or practitioner will then begin the session by playing the audio track.
You may experience a variety of things during the session, such as tingling, warmth or heaviness. The responses are all normal reactions and indicate that the treatment is working.
Most people find neuro-relaxation to be a very relaxing and enjoyable experience. Some people may even fall asleep during the session.
After the session is over, you will likely feel more relaxed and refreshed
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BENEFITS OF NEURO-RELAXATION
Neuro-relaxation benefits include stress reduction, improved mood, increased focus and concentration, and improved sleep.
Recent research has proven that stress can lead to chronic illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes. Neuro-relaxation can help reduce stress and the risk of developing these chronic illnesses.
Apart from repairing damage, neuro-relaxation can reset the brain and change your state of mind.
IMPROVED COGNITIVE FUNCTION
Neuro-relaxation can also improve cognitive function and this advantage cannot be overstated.
Cognitive function means the ability to learn, think, reason, remember, make decisions, and problem solve. Neuro-relaxation can help to improve these cognitive functions by increasing the brain's ability to establish and reorganise synaptic connections.
The treatment is especially advantageous for people who have suffered a stroke or other brain injury. Neuro-relaxation can help repair the damage by rewiring the brain and improving cognitive function.
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OTHER BENEFITS OF NEURO-RELAXATION - AN OVERVIEW
Improved sleep: Neuro-relaxation can improve sleep. Research shows that neuro-relaxation can increase slow-wave sleep, the deepest sleep stage. Slow-wave sleep is essential for restoring the body and mind.
Decreased cortisol levels: Neuro-relaxation can also decrease cortisol levels, which is the stress hormone. High cortisol levels lead to poor sleep, which raises stress levels.
Reduced anxiety: Neuro-relaxation can help reduce anxiety by changing the way the brain responds to stress.
Improved mood: Neuro-relaxation can improve mood by increasing serotonin levels, which is the happy hormone.
Enhanced well-being: Neuro-relaxation combines all of the above to improve well-being by reducing stress, improving sleep and reducing anxiety.
Stimulated immune system: Neuro-relaxation can also stimulate the immune system, vital for preventing and fighting infection.
Neuro-relaxation is a safe and effective treatment. If you would like to learn more about neuro-relaxation, click on the link or book a consultation, and don't hesitate to contact us.
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