Holistic Health Practices/Part 9

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What is Biofeedback?

Biofeedback is the use of special electronic equipment and mental exercises to influence physiological responses. The goal is to gain some degree of control over particular physical functions that people do not normally, consciously regulate.

Mental control over bodily functions extends into antiquity through yoga and related practices. Elmer Green and Barbara Brown are among the most recognized modern leaders and innovators in biofeedback, although aspects of biofeedback principles and application were explored by earlier pioneers such as Johannes Schultz, the developer of autogenic training.

Biofeedback claims to work by enabling people to learn to recognize and consciously control certain biological parameters such as skin temperature, muscle tension, brain waves, pulse rate, etc. As a result, a person can better regulate physical problems normally associated with these parameters, such as tension headache, high blood pressure, etc.

Biofeedback offers only limited effectiveness for people who are highly motivated, and in particular, for those who are adept at visualization or meditation. Biofeedback can also be used to develop altered states of consciousness, psychic abilities, and spirit contact. In addition, it may offer unknown or unexpected consequences relating to manipulation of the consciousness.

While biofeedback is permissible in theory, we do not necessarily recommend the practice. As in hypnosis, unanswered questions remain, certain issues are tentative, and much work is experimental. Further, physical or mental problems may arise from improper use by unqualified therapists. Those people who choose to use biofeedback should avoid any occultic methods or applications and be certain of their practitioner’s orientation and qualifications.

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