




NeuroMeditation is the application of brain-based principles to meditation practices. It is based on the understanding that all meditations are not the same. Based on dozens of brain imaging studies, we can categorize meditations based on the way attention is directed, our intention during the practice, and the way it impacts the brain. In general, meditation styles fall into one (or more) of 5 categories: Focus, Mindfulness, Quiet Mind, Open Heart, and Deep States. By understanding each of these styles, you can choose one to match your goals and needs. In addition to the science behind meditation, the NeuroMeditation system also teaches a variety of tools, techniques, and strategies to help you enter these specific meditative states. EEG biofeedback (neurofeedback) is one of the tools used in this process.
On the surface, these two practices look identical. You place electrodes on the scalp, measure brainwave activity, and provide the person with some form of feedback about what is happening in their brain. Auditory (sound) feedback is generally a specific tone or music that happens when the brainwave patterns shift to the desired state. Visual feedback can be on a flat screen or in virtual reality/augmented reality with Healium. Visual feedback typically involves something changing in the visual experience in response to the brainwave patterns. For example, the screen might dim when you are not in the desired brainwave state and it might become brighter when you are in the desired state. Both traditional neurofeedback and EEG NeuroMeditation use these forms of feedback; however, the function and form of the client’s experience for each of these is quite different.
In traditional neurofeedback, the goal is generally to help shift the brain out of undesirable pattern. For example, someone with ADHD may have an excessive amount of theta brainwave activity in a specific region of the brain. The neurofeedback therapist would place sensors in that exact region and “reward” the person whenever the theta activity drops below a certain level. This is a very individualized process designed to help a person’s brain learn how to move out of its typical, stuck pattern of behaving.
In EEG neuromeditation, the neurofeedback parameters are pre-determined. It is not individualized. We know how the brain should be responding during specific meditation states, so the neurofeedback becomes a tool to help someone identify if and when they are able to enter those states and when they shift into mind-wandering or some other “undesirable” state. It is not about trying to make the brain change a potentially problematic pattern. It is about helping someone to understand their internal state. The neurofeedback, in this case, serves as meditation “training wheels.”
Focus practices involve directing the attention toward a single target, recognizing when the mind wanders, and quickly returning attention to the single target.
Mindfulness includes practices that involve shifting to an observer stance; watching what is happening in the present moment-thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations-without attachment or judgment.
Open Heart is an umbrella term to include practices such as lovingkindness, compassion, gratitude, and forgiveness. These are practices that involve activating and sustaining a positive emotional state (and usually sending that energy to others).
Quiet Mind is the stereotype of meditation and involves entering a state of spaciousness with minimal internal dialogue.
Deep States involve shifting into a state where consciousness is freed of its usual restrictions. There can be spontaneous memories, emotions, or internal journeys.
If you know you’ve downloaded the Healium iPhone app that has a watch component but it’s not showing up under the “Available Apps” banner, chances are you have Automatic App Install turned off and your iPhone didn’t initially recognize that these apps were Apple Watch compatible. As such, your iPhone may need a reboot to properly sync its app collection. Reboot your iphone.
If the Healium app still doesn’t show up, open the Apple Watch companion app on your iPhone, and scroll down through the My Watch section to the app you’re trying to install. Tap on this app to see the “Show App on Apple Watch” toggle. Flip the switch to off, wait for the app to finish uninstalling, then toggle it back on again.
Make sure that you’ve chosen a well lit area that has good contrast. Try your carpet or a newspaper on your desk. Like in this video: https://youtu.be/5MxplKPkX6g You should see a mesh displayed on the screen.
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