Biofeedback tools measure outer body physiological states. They are perfect for measuring how well you are reducing stress levels. Watch your heart rate and pulse waves and try to reduce them. The computer programs often come with beautiful graphics so it is like playing a game, only the more you relax the higher score you get. Not getting the balloon to fly over the wall? Relax! And over it goes!
 For people who like figures there are the numbers to go with it so you can see your heart rate and how much you wish to adjust it. After that it's just a matter of practice.
There are manuals to go with the tools and games, or on-screen support, that teach you how to do the breathing, see Relaxation.
What is Biofeedback?
Biofeedback is the data that instruments produce about a person's physiological systems. Devices range from simple to interactive and fun; a mirror can be used to help with gait retraining, we've all used thermometers to test temperature - a computer, with sensors, can be used to monitor heart rate, respiratory rate and pulse levels. They are non-intrusive and very helpful in giving live information. For instance, sometimes, though we know that we are not relaxed, we don't know how to relax. As the instruments give feedback and we watch the results it is easy to discover which techniques we are using successfully to affect our physiological states.
The Wild Divine software game measures a player's Skin Conductance Level (SCL) and Heart Rate Variability (HRV). SCL measures perspiration levels which, when increased,
 indicate higher autonomic nervous system activation, i.e. increased energy. This increased energy can be positive, when we are excited, or negative, when we are nervous.
HRV calculates the differences in heart rate from one heart beat to another. No two intervals are alike and the device measuring the HRV requires sophistication greater than merely taking your pulse to determine it.
We need to aim for greater HRV as the healthy option. People who show greater HRV tend to live longer and enjoy life more. This game not only teaches us how to create varying physiological states, but it also allows us to learn in a far deeper sense so that we can carry our new tools into every day life.
Next - Emotional Detachment
|
