In the previous article, we introduced neurofeedback as a way of giving the brain a mirror. But how exactly does this “mirror” work? Let’s break it down step by step.

Step 1: Measuring the Brain’s Activity

The process begins with placing sensors (electrodes) on specific areas of the scalp. These sensors are completely non-invasive — they don’t give electricity to the brain, they only record the brain’s natural activity.

This electrical activity is known as the electroencephalogram (EEG) — the same technology doctors have used for decades to study seizures, sleep, and brain function.

Step 2: Converting Brainwaves into Feedback

The recorded brainwaves are then processed by specialized software. The software looks for patterns:

• Are there too many slow theta waves (linked with distractibility)?

• Is there excessive fast beta activity (linked with anxiety)?

• Is there an imbalance between the left and right frontal lobes (linked with mood regulation)?

These patterns are translated into visual or auditory feedback. For example:

• A movie brightens when your brain is in the desired state.

• A game character moves forward when your focus is strong.

• A gentle tone plays when your brain enters a relaxed rhythm.

The key principle: healthy brain activity is rewarded instantly, while unhealthy patterns stop the reward.

Step 3: The Brain Learns — Neuroplasticity in Action

Our brains are constantly learning. When rewarded, they tend to repeat the same pattern. With practice across multiple sessions (usually 20–40), the brain strengthens its ability to maintain balanced, healthy rhythms even outside the session.

This is similar to physical exercise or physiotherapy:

• Just as lifting weights repeatedly strengthens muscles, training brainwaves repeatedly strengthens mental regulation.

• Over time, the changes become more natural and lasting.

Step 4: Tailoring to Each Individual

No two brains are alike. Neurofeedback protocols can be customized depending on:

• The person’s condition (ADHD vs. anxiety vs. insomnia).

• The target brain area (frontal vs. central vs. temporal).

• The individual’s baseline EEG (sometimes guided by Quantitative EEG or QEEG mapping).

This personalized approach makes neurofeedback a flexible tool — adaptable across children, adults, and even the elderly.

A Simple Example

Imagine a 12-year-old with ADHD. He sits in front of a computer where a rocket ship moves forward when his brain produces focus-related brainwaves. At first, the rocket sputters and stalls. But with practice across sessions, the boy learns — without even being conscious of it — to hold his attention longer. Teachers and parents notice he is calmer, more attentive, and less restless in daily life.

Conclusion

Neurofeedback is not about forcing the brain; it’s about guiding it gently with real-time information. By turning brainwaves into interactive rewards, it makes the invisible visible — and trains the brain to regulate itself better.

In our next article, we’ll walk you through what happens in a typical neurofeedback session — from the moment you sit down, to the feedback games you play, to how progress is tracked.

✨ Written by Dr. Srinivas Rajkumar T, MD (AIIMS, New Delhi), DNB, MBA (BITS Pilani) – Consultant Psychiatrist, Chennai.

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