Cartoon wooman in sauna

The Healing Power of Infrared Saunas

Most people are aware of the relaxing and therapeutic benefits that come from traditional steamy saunas, but fewer people know about the benefits and healing power that come from using an infrared sauna.  Instead of using hot coals to create an intense and often uncomfortable heat, infrared saunas use a specific form of infrared light to create a less intense heat that is able to penetrate deeper into the skin for detoxification.  Not only do infrared saunas provide the same benefits as a traditional sauna with significantly lower temperatures, but infrared light has a variety of additional benefits for the skin and body similar to sunlight.

It’s a known fact that being outside and in the sun is good for physical and mental health, however, too much unprotected sun exposure leads to problems ranging from sun burns to skin cancer.  This is because the sun’s heat comes from a wide variety of radiation including harmful UV rays which sunscreen protects us from and beneficial Infrared light which infrared saunas utilize.

Benefits from Infrared Saunas:

  • Detoxification – The sweating from the infrared saunas is one of the best natural ways to detoxify. The light from infrared saunas penetrates deep in the skin to remove deep seated toxins including heavy metals such as mercury and lead.
  • Weight Loss – Infrared saunas cause sweating and an increased heart rate which simulates exercise. Infrared saunas also ease joint and muscle pain making it easier to recover from an injury or a tough work out and get back in the gym. 
  • Stress and Fatigue – The warmth and relaxation from infrared saunas are a great way to de-stress and recharge for the next week.
  • Joint Pain and Stiffness – Infrared Saunas can help reduce or alleviate temporary or chronic pain and inflammation of all kinds and has been shown effective at reducing symptoms in patients with fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, and peripheral arterial disease.

                                                                       

  • Skin Health including relief from Acne – Infrared saunas provide a wonderful cleansing for the skin and can even significantly reduce or eliminate signs of acne.
  • Wound Healing – Infrared saunas can help boost the body’s natural healing process in recovering from wounds such as small cuts, scrapes, or other minor skin injuries.

Further reading:

  1. What is Red Light Therapy? – https://www.oglf.org/what-is-red-light-therapy/
  1. Infrared Sauna for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome – https://universityhealthnews.com/daily/energy/new-study-shows-infrared-sauna-benefits-patients-with-chronic-fatigue-syndrome/
  1. 14 Benefits of Infrared Therapy – https://www.infrared-light-therapy.com/infrared-therapy-health-benefits/
  1. Infrared Saunas for Chronic Pain – https://universityhealthnews.com/daily/pain/new-hope-for-chronic-pain-sufferers-infrared-sauna-therapy-shows-impressive-pain-reducing-results/
Hands holding placard about reducing toxins

DETOX: How and Why

DETOX: How and Why

Your body is constantly under assault from toxins in the environment around us.  From processed foods, airborne pollutants, as well as negative emotions such as stress, toxins are impossible to avoid. The toxin load we encounter daily weighs us down with fatigue, irritability, and sometimes physical reactions such as allergies and skin irritation.  While it may not be possible to eliminate all toxins in our life, limiting these toxins and detoxifying the body can restore energy and improve overall well-being.

While proper diet and exercise are the two most important factors of a detox, we offer a number of services to help your body reach a healthier state. At the Natural Medicine Center of Lakeland, we promote and facilitate detoxification through our energy medicine, infrared sauna, IV nutritional therapies and thermographic examination.

PEMF BEMER therapy improves blood flow and increases oxygen in the blood.  This increased oxygen and circulation of blood stimulates the immune and lymph systems which works to drain the body of toxins.

Much like a traditional sauna, our infrared sauna uses the healing power of heat to rejuvenate and cleanse the body.  However, the infrared technology of our sauna produces a lower intensity heat that is able to penetrate deeper in the body, removing toxins that a traditional sauna would miss
.
https://www.amymyersmd.com/2017/09/6-benefits-of-infrared-sauna-therapy/

Finally, through Thermography we are able to track the changes that detoxification has on your body.  While primarily used to screen for breast cancer, Thermography shows us areas of inflammation and abnormalities within the body.  These markers allow us to see what areas of the body are more toxic and help guide us with how to properly detox and treat the abnormalities.

http://www.naturallakeland.com/thermography/

Lastly, IV Glutathione Therapy acts principally on liver and brain tissues. Research suggests glutathione therapy can lead patients to an improved memory, while also helping to lower the risk for dementia conditions, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, neuropathy, and liver disease. Other IV therapies can also be a great part of a detox effort including Myer’s cocktail and high dose vitamin c, and hydrogen peroxide. IV services are offered 1 time weekly at The Natural Medicine Center and are ALL preservative free.

http://www.naturallakeland.com/iv-nutritional-therapy/

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Holiday Special – 40% Off Supplement Sale

Hello and Happy Holidays!

The Natural Medicine Center of Lakeland is offering a limited time Supplement Sale on a number of different supplements and herbal remedies which can be found below.

(Offer Only Available While Supplies Last)

Huang Lian Jie Du Tang by Evergreen Herbs

  • Original Price: $25.00

  • Discounted Price: $15.00

  • Natural Coptis and Scute Combination

  • Used to treat gastrointestinal problems and can help with issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.

Cordyceps 3 by Evergreen Herbs

  • Original Price: $40.00

  • Discounted Price: $24.00

  • Dietary supplement made from medicinal mushrooms

  • Primarily used to combat fatigue and asthma as well as support the body’s immune system

Herbal AVR by Evergreen Herbs

  • Original Price: $26.00

  • Discounted Price: $15.60

  • Primarily used for immune support and for inflammation management

Interfase by Klaire Labs

  • Original Price: $46.00 for large bottle (100 capsules) and $32.00 for small bottle (60 capsules).

  • Discounted Price:$26.00 for large bottle (100 capsules) and $17 for small bottle (60 Capsules).

  • Enzyme Supplement

  • Enzyme combination disrupts biofilm and encourages healthy intestinal microbial communities.

Interfase Plus by Klaire Labs

  • Original Price: $37.00 for large bottle (120 capsules) and $24.00 small bottles.

  • Discounted Price:$19.00 for large bottle (120 capsules) $11.00 for small bottle (60 capsules)

  • Enzyme supplement.

  • Antibiofilm enzyme combination with EDTA

Ginkgo Plus by Dee Cee Labs

  • Original Price: $9.25

  • Discounted Price: $5.55

  • Improves oxygen flow to brain and extremities. Ideal for seniors, office workers, and college students.

Zymegest by Dee Cee Labs

  • Original Price: $26.00

  • Discounted Price: $15.60

  • Pancreatic enzyme concentrate. Contains Amylase, Proease, and Lipase with Cellulase and Bile extract. Nutritionally supports digestive health.

Stress Plus by Dee Cee Labs

  • Original Price: $22.00

  • Discounted Price: $13.20

  • Stress formula dietary supplement of B-Complex with E, C, and Biotin, plus Valerian, Passiflora, and Magnesium.

  • Nutritionally supports energy metabolism and nervous system health.

Mood ReClaimed

  • Original Price: $48.00

  • Discounted Price: $28.80

  • Supporting emotional balance.

  • Enables the body’s cells to access more energy and help the body utilize oxygen more efficiently.

“4 Male” by Kajarin

  • Original Price: $39.00

  • Discounted Price: $23.40

  • Moisturizing treatment cream. It contains progesterone to help balance estrogen dominance in men. 4Male is designed to complement a number of medical and nutritional approaches to healthy aging.

Check Out our shop for more products.

 Natural Treatment Modalities for Cancer Patients

, , Breast Health, Cancer, Holistic

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Fact: Natural and Allopathic Cancer treatment approaches can complement one another—which serves patients better as they strive to restore and regain their vitality. Our offerings include Supplements and Energy Treatments to hasten cellular / tissue repair. Vitamins, Minerals, Supplements, and Energy Treatments are also reputed to reinforce a patient’s immune system [1], which provides advantages for cancer recovery. 

Cancer is one of the most feared diseases in society today.  New statistics show that the top killer of American citizens is Heart Disease, and this implicates conditions such as stroke and congestive heart failure. The same statistical workup shows cancer as the second most common cause of deaths in the United States.  Cancer is a condition that pulls at the average American’s heart-strings; cancer troubles us because this disease state is debilitating, and treatments are usually extended across many years.  For many cancer survivors, this statement is submitted as truth:

“The cancer itself would be enough to drain me, but when chemo and other immunological treatments are added in….it really takes a toll, and is exhausting”.

Doctors and patients are aware, in advance of chemotherapy treatments, that such medical treatment may render a depleted feeling in the patient. The over-arching rationale is to stop the cancer from growing. More specifically chemotherapy damages genes on the chromosomes inside cancer cells. The central goal, when administering chemotherapy, is to impact cancer cells *selectively*, and to spare most normal cells. However because chemotherapeutic drugs travel throughout the body, they can affect normal somatic cells, albeit unintentionally.

Loss or damage to normal somatic cells provokes a number of deleterious effects such as fatigue, malnutrition, hair loss, weight loss, etc.  To offset some of these unwanted effects, the Natural Medicine Center of Lakeland offers supportive treatments. Doctors at the Natural Medicine Center can work adjunctively with Oncologists and Cancer-Center Specialists. Fact: Natural and Allopathic treatment approaches can complement one another—which serves patients better as they strive to restore and regain their vitality. Our offerings include Supplements and Energy Treatments to hasten cellular / tissue repair. Vitamins, Minerals, Supplements, and Energy Treatments are also reputed to reinforce a patient’s immune system [1], which provides advantages for cancer recovery.

While living with cancer will always be a struggle, we believe it shouldn’t end a person’s ability enjoy life.  All of our recommended treatments and lifestyle changes for cancer patients aim to bring them back some of the energy and positive well-being that their illness may have taken away. Although there is no definitive cure for cancer, recovery is more possible than many people are led to believe.

Anti-Cancer Services at The Natural Medicine Center of Lakeland

  • Nutritional Counseling – Hallelujah and Living Foods Diet Programs
    • Our diet programs emphasize a high amount of vegetables and fruit and a conservative intake of meat. We also host a small farmers market at our clinic every Friday to encourage our patients to eat fresh and healthy.

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  • IV Therapy – High Dose Vitamin C
    • Once a week we administer IV infusions of natural supplements at our clinic. In particular, studies have found that high doses of Vitamin C which can only be achieved through IV infusion can have a significant oxidant (and tumor cell eradicating) impact [2].
  • Natural Supplements such as Vitamin B17
    • We carry a wide range of natural supplements to meet any person’s dietary or nutritional needs. Catherine Onuoha can also guide patients to which supplements are best for their specific needs.
  • Low Dose Naltrexone
    • The drug Naltrexone is best known for actions at Opioid Receptors (implying significant brain effects). However, research has shown a unique action for low dosages of Naltrexone (abbreviated LDN). LDN pharmacologic effects seem to be entirely independent of Opioid receptor effects. Many scientists have shown LDN can improve the immune function(s) [3].
  • UV Blood Irradiation
    • Ultraviolet Blood Irradiation is a process in which a small optic tube exposes your blood to ultraviolet light. Just as ultraviolet light has been found to purify water, the same safe and natural energy can be used to cleanse the blood of impurities [4].
  • Energetic Correction via Pulsed Electromagnetic Therapies
    • Our PEMF machine improves oxygenation of body tissues and supports the natural healing systems [5].
https://www.facebook.com/events/488363265002021/

https://www.facebook.com/events/488363265002021/

  • Detoxification through our Infrared Sauna
    • Detoxification is an important part of recovering from a major illness such as cancer. In addition to detox guidance from Dr. Catherine, our clinic also has an Infrared Sauna which uses gentle infrared heat to penetrate and detoxify the body.
Nutrition and Cancer

One of the most vital steps to improving your health and fighting off any illness is to have a proper diet and nutritional plan.  Especially with the malnourishment which cancer brings on, it’s important for patients to make sure they are getting the proper nutrients either from their diet or from natural supplements.  Our Doctors at the Natural Medicine Center can advise patients on what foods and diet plans are best for building the immune system and fighting cancer.

Cancer and Detoxification

The Natural Medicine Centers’ advice and emphasis on ingesting adequate nutrients, to empower healing processes, is balanced by secondary advice to DETOX!  We ask you to understand ‘toxins’ as harm-provoking, miniscule substances—and toxins are everywhere in modern living environments.  Toxins abound in car exhaust, processed foods, chemical additives, cosmetics, plastics…etc.  The Doctors at NMC contend   “It is nearly impossible for citizens to avoid absorbing toxins”.  This is why our Doctors stress the importance of frequent DETOX treatments. Detoxification regimens are especially beneficial for those facing a major health issue such as cancer.  Detoxification is assisted by:  regular exercise, a vegetable / fruit loaded diets, IV infusion or oral ingestion of glutathione, and regular use of PEMF therapy devices plus Infrared sauna machines.

Cancer Monitoring Through Thermography

Digital Medical Thermography utilizes an Infrared technology to thermally image body tissues.  Any excesses in a patient’s hot or cold body impressions are interpretable. Said differently, a patient’s hot and cold patterns can be discerned by specialists who will correlate temperature to tissue health—n.b., cytokine pathway activation events read as warmth and poor circulation reads cold. Therefore, areas of inflammation will emerge as HOT.  Thermography is described within the “Truth about Cancer” video-series as a preventative imaging strategy [6]. Thermography can also be used to actively monitor the progression of a known carcinogenic tumor—hence monitoring metastatic progression and/or tumor growth.

http://naturallakeland.flywheelsites.com/thermography-as-a-risk-indicator/

Medical Thermography can spot abnormalities up to 8 years before a mammogram.

Check out this video about Thermography for Breast Health:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=15&v=2J7Fxdz4930

Works Cited:

  1. Multanen, J. Hakkinen, A., Heikkinen, P., Kautiainen, H., Mustalampi, S., Yinen, J. (2018). Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy in the treatment of pain and other symptoms in fibromyalgia: A randomized controlled study.  Bioelectromagnetics, 39(5), 405-413.
  2. Ewer, T. (2016). The use of high-dose intravenous vitamin C in the management of cancer: a case for vitamin C in the management of cancer. Focus on Alternative & Complementary Therapies, 21(3/4), 137–142. https://doi-org.chamberlainuniversity.idm.oclc.org/10.1111/fct.12275
  3. Liu, W. M., Scott, K. A., Dennis, J. L., Kaminska, E., Levett, A. J., & Dalgleish, A. G. (2016). Naltrexone at low doses upregulates a unique gene expression not seen with normal doses: Implications for its use in cancer therapy. International Journal Of Oncology, 49(2), 793–802.
  4. Jones, K. & McBain, A. (2018). Study on The UVLrx System.  Society for Applied Microbiology.
  5. Storch K, Dickreuter E, Artati A, Adamski J, Cordes N (2016) BEMER Electromagnetic Field Therapy Reduces Cancer Cell Radioresistance by Enhanced ROS Formation and Induced DNA Damage. PLoS ONE 11(12).
  6. Ty Bollinger, Truth about Cancer Global Quest. – Video reference can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqJAzQe7_0g
Catherine of Natural Medicine Center of Lakeland

Meet our Natural Medicine Professionals

Hello! With the recent addition of Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Peter Stoyanov to the Natural Medicine Center team, we would like to give an introduction to our three primary natural medicine professionals who see clients here at the Natural Medicine Center of Lakeland.  In addition to the written introductions below, we will also be having a formal meet and greet on the 23rd of October at 5:00 PM here at the Natural Medicine Center of Lakeland.  In attendance will be FNP Peter Stoyanov, Dr. Catherine Onuoha, and Acupuncture Physician Nam Jeon.

Peter Stoyanov, ARNP

Although Peter Stoyanov is new to the Natural Medicine Center of Lakeland, he has been practicing medicine since the mid 90’s when he worked as a physician in his home country of Bulgaria.  After moving to the United States, Peter furthered his education in the field of nursing and went on to receive a Bachelor’s in Nursing from Florida International University and a Master’s degree in Family Practice from the University of South Florida.  With this education, Peter has served in a variety of nurse practitioner and nurse supervisor roles throughout Florida.  While Peter’s recent experience has been in larger medical facilities, he is very eager to go back to his roots and practice holistic medicine in a more personal manner.

Dr. Catherine Onuoha, PhD, RPh

Dr. Catherine Onuoha is licensed psychopharmacologist and is the primary doctor and owner of The Natural Medicine Center of Lakeland.  Dr. Onuoha earned her PhD in pharmacology and toxicology from the Medical College of Virginia.  After pursuing a career of research and academia with patient care on the side for over a decade, Dr. Onuoha decided to focus fully on seeing patients when she opened The Natural Medicine Center of Lakeland in 2015.

Dr. Onuoha and her clinic embrace alternative and holistic treatments which consider the whole person, mentally and physically.  By using natural treatments such as supplements, energy medicine, and Bio-Identical-Hormone Replacement Therapy, Catherine aims to bring a greater sense of balance and wellness to her patients.  Instead of merely medicating symptoms, Dr. Onuoha addresses the underlying problems by re-balancing the body’s natural systems.

Nam Jeon, D.O.M.

Nam Jeon is one of the two Acupuncture physicians we have at the Natural Medicine Center of Lakeland.  Nam is licensed in the State of Florida and certified by NCCAOM (the National Certification Commission of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine).  While Nam studied acupuncture in China, he also received a Master’s degree as a Doctor of Oriental Medicine (D.O.M.) from the Midwest College of Oriental Medicine.  Nam is also trained in other forms of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) such as mindfulness meditation and herbal remedies and he has been seeing clients for over twenty years.

Nam treats patients with complaints ranging from musculoskeletal pain (low back pain, sciatica, tennis elbow, bursitis, arthritis), neurological disorders (stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, headaches, migraines), and addiction (alcohol, drug, nicotine).  Nam has also authored three books on acupuncture and Eastern medicine; Ear Reflexology & Earring Therapy, BioMedicine Essential: BioMedicine Study Guide for the Oriental Medicine Practitioner, and The Ancient Healer: Oriental Medicine Explained.

If you have any interest in getting to know Dr. Catherine, Peter, or Nam please join us at our meet and greet here at The Natural Medicine Center of Lakeland on October 23rd at 5:00 PM.

Thermal Imaging Camera

Thermography As A Risk Indicator

Thermography Breast Cancer Risk Indicator Holistic Healthcare Natural Medicine Center Lakeland Central Florida

Red and White indicating significant abnormal blood flow and risk

 

 

As with any technology, as time progresses better thermography cameras and software is developed increasing the detection ability and resolution thus making evaluating the images more precise.  As early as 1976, at the Third International Symposium on Detection and Prevention of Cancer in New York, thermography was established by consensus as the highest risk indicator for the possibility of the presence of an undetected breast cancer.  It also has been shown to predict subsequent occurrences [1-3]. The Wisconsin Breast Cancer Detection Foundation presented a summary of its findings in this area, which has remained undisputed [4]. This, combined with other reports, has undeniably vouched that thermography is the highest risk indicator for the future development of breast cancer and is 10 times effective where there is a family history of the disease [5].  This additional effectiveness is in great part due to patients being aware of their predisposition and proactively obtaining screening.  Thermography is an ideal choice with no pain and no radiation in where frequent screening by other methods could result in radiation overexposure.

A 10,000 women study by Gautherie found that, when applied to asymptomatic women, thermography was very useful in assessing the risk of cancer by dividing patients into low- and high-risk categories. This was based on an objective evaluation of each patient’s thermograms using an improved reading protocol that incorporated 20 thermopathological factors [6].

Fibrocystic Breasts Thermograph Screening Tool Prevention Awareness Holistic Healthcare Natural Medicine Center Lakeland Central Florida

Thermography Screening indicating the possibility of Fibrocystic Breast

Therograph Screening indicating the possibility of Fibrocystic BreastFrom a patient base of 58,000 women screened with thermography, Gros and associates followed 1,527 patients with initially healthy breasts and abnormal thermograms for 12 years. Of this group, 40% developed malignancies within 5 years. The study concluded that “an abnormal thermogram is the single most important marker of high risk for the future development of breast cancer” [7].

Spitalier and associates followed 1,416 patients with isolated abnormal breast thermograms. It was found that a persistently abnormal thermogram, as an isolated phenomenon, is associated with an actuarial breast cancer risk of 26% at 5 years. Within this study, 165 patients with non-palpable cancers were observed. In 53% of these patients, thermography was the only test which was positive at the time of initial evaluation. It was concluded that: (1) A persistently abnormal thermogram, even in the absence of any other sign of malignancy, is associated with a high risk of developing cancer, (2) This isolated abnormal also carries with it a high risk of developing interval cancer, and as such the patient should be examined more frequently than the customary 12 months, (3) Most patients diagnosed as having minimal breast cancer have abnormal thermograms as the first warning sign [8-9].

 

References

[1] Amalric, R., Gautherie, M., Hobbins, W., Stark, A.: The Future of Women with an Isolated Abnormal Infrared Thermogram. La Nouvelle Presse Med 10(38):3153-3159, 1981

[2] Gautherie, M., Gros, C.: Contribution of Infrared Thermography to Early Diagnosis, Pretherapeutic Prognosis, and Post-irradiation Follow-up of Breast Carcinomas. Laboratory of Electroradiology, Faculty of Medicine, Louis Pasteur University, Strasbourg, France, 1976

[3] Hobbins, W.: Significance of an “Isolated” Abnormal Thermogram. La Nouvelle Presse Medicale 10(38):3153-3155, 1981

[4] Hobbins, W.: Thermography, Highest Risk Marker in Breast Cancer. Proceedings of the Gynecological Society for the Study of Breast Disease. pp. 267-282, 1977.

[5] Louis, K., Walter, J., Gautherie, M.: Long-Term Assessment of Breast Cancer Risk by Thermal Imaging. Biomedical Thermology. Alan R. Liss Inc. pp.279-301, 1982.

[6] Gauthrie, M.: Improved System for the Objective Evaluation of Breast Thermograms. Biomedical Thermology; Alan R. Liss, Inc., New York, NY; pp.897-905, 1982

[7] Gros, C., Gautherie, M.: Breast Thermography and Cancer Risk Prediction. Cancer 45:51-56, 1980

[8] Amalric, R., Giraud, D., et al: Combined Diagnosis of Small Breast Cancer. Acta Thermographica, 1984.

[9] Spitalier, J., Amalric, D., et al: The Importance of Infrared Thermography in the Early Suspicion and Detection of Minimal Breast Cancer. Thermal Assessment of Breast Health (Proceedings of an International Conference), MTP Press Ltd., pp.173-179, 1983

Woman meditating on Beach

Neuroptimal Neurofeedback and Meditation

 

Neuroptimal Neurofeedback founding roots in meditation

 

Founder and lead designer of Neuroptimal’s Neurofeedback system, Val Brown has claimed that his system and company take much inspiration from traditional Buddhist psychology and meditation.  For those unaware, Buddhism and psychology have a lot of overlap and commonalities; in fact, many widely accepted psychological ideas and theories can be seen in traditional buddhist texts. Even simple ideas such as anger and resentment being mentally unhealthy were first outlined by Buddhist principles long before psychology was a field.  The Dalai Lama has also embraced Buddhism’s connection to the science of psychology by holding “Mind and Life” gatherings every two years where prominent scientists and Buddhists from around the world come together for discussions and conferences.

One of the most important parts of Buddhism that has strongly influenced psychology is the idea of mindfulness.  Instead of blindly going through the motions of life, buddhism and psychology encourage us to be acutely aware of our thoughts and actions so that we can confront ourselves and change when necessary.  Just as in mainstream cognitive-behavioral psychology, Buddhism emphasizes positive actions and positive thoughts as the guide to a happy life. While buddhists might practice this enhanced mindfulness in focused meditation, many psychologists use therapy sessions or mindfulness techniques so that their clients can achieve this greater self discovery and self knowledge.

 

Meditation and Neuroptimal Neurofeedback

 

Mindfulness meditation and Neuroptimal neurofeedback are especially intertwined as they are both forms of brain training.  Both meditation and neuroptimal neurofeedback train the client’s brain to have greater concentration and focus as well as control over their mental and emotional states.  Additionally, many of the results that come from meditation such as alleviating anxiety and depression and lessening symptoms of ADHD/ADD can also be seen from Neuroptimal.  While deep levels of meditation can be very difficult for the uninitiated to practice, Neuroptimal makes it much easier for anyone to quiet their busy mind and calmly experience the flow of their thoughts.  Founder of Neuroptimal Val Brown has even referred to his system as being similar to a gong in a meditation dojo for keeping clients focused in the present moment, however, the difference in Neuroptimal is that the “gong” only sounds when the client’s brain is about to make a shift.

Neuroptimal further promotes Buddhist philosophy by believing that the patient and their brain has all the resources they need to achieve a breakthrough. Neuroptimal doesn’t try to change your brain to a predetermined ideal state, but allows the brain to learn from itself where and how to change.  Much like meditation, the goal of neuroptimal is for you to be the master of your own brain and body. Just as practiced meditation has profound effects on a person’s well-being, training through Neuroptimal can help a person stay focused and in control when facing stressful or difficult situations.

 

 

Sources:https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2013.00688/full?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Psychology-w42-2013

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3705677/

Brain Wave Chart

All About Brainwaves

Before going further into Neurofeedback, it’s important to know exactly what this therapy is trying to change. Neurofeedback’s ability to improve cognitive performance and help treat various psychological disorders is based on a “re-training” of your brain to have more balanced and well regulated brain waves. Brain waves are the result of the electrical activity in your brain that creates your thoughts and operates your body. Neurologists have identified four different types of brain waves with unique properties based on their frequency range. A brief breakdown of the different brain waves can be seen below.

brain waves

As you can see, brain wave activity can be divided into Beta, Alpha, Delta, Theta, and Gamma based on their frequency measured in Hertz.

Beta – 14-30 Hz
Beta waves are the most present brain wave during normal day to day activities. Beta is associated with alertness and focus which allows us to think critically and focus on school or work tasks. An overabundance of beta waves are typically linked to people with high stress or anxiety and low amounts of beta waves are usually seen as a contributing factor to ADHD/ADD and depression.

Alpha – 9-13 Hz
Alpha waves come from a relaxed state of mind, especially after doing a difficult or stressful task that required heavy beta waves. Alpha waves are also important when getting into the deep sleep states of delta and theta thus insomniacs are generally found to have low levels of alpha activity. People who are chronically stressed or anxious also generally have too low alpha waves while those who are seemingly never stressed or take anything seriously have excessive alpha activity making them overly relaxed.
Delta – Below 4 Hz
Delta waves are the slowest type of brain waves and is generated in both deep dreamless sleep and focused meditation. These waves have been shown to be important in the healing process of the body and are one reason why healthy sleep is necessary for healing or recovery. Excessive or irregular delta waves, especially while awake, are usually telling of either Traumatic Brain Injury or a learning disability.

Theta – 4-8 Hz

Theta waves are the link between alpha and delta and are mainly found in daydreaming or sleep, but can also be achieved through deep meditation or relaxation techniques. Theta waves are associated with unconscious memories and emotions which often arise in dreams. Theta waves have also been shown to help spark people’s creativity and imagination. While theta waves are very beneficial for the body, too much theta activity can lead to ADHD and depression while too little theta activity can cause anxiety, stress, and poor emotional responses.
Gamma – 30 Hz and above
Gamma waves are the fastest known brain waves in our body and are mainly involved in higher order cognitive functions and information processing including sensory information. While they are not as common or well studied as other brain waves, they are believed to be an important part of learning and low gamma wave activity is often seen in people with ADHD or learning disabilities.

Brainwave Regulation
Now that you have an idea of what the different brain waves are and how they affect the way you think, I hope you can see the importance of having a well regulated and balanced brain. While these different brain waves and states can’t be immediately shifted, there are many ways a person can learn to regulate their brain activity for optimal performance. When you drink a coffee, your helping your brain boost its level of beta waves for increased focus and productivity; on the other hand, relaxation or meditation techniques can lower beta activity and raise alpha causing a more relaxed alpha state. While nearly all illicit or prescription drugs have effects that help enhance or inhibit certain types of brain activity, healthy brain regulation can be achieved naturally through neurofeedback training.

More often than not, medication such as anti-depressants or stimulants are prescribed to fix brain imbalances. While medication can improve functioning and brain balance, they also come with side effects and drawbacks such as dependence and tolerance. Instead of using prescription drugs to fix imbalances in brain wave activity, neurofeedback therapy relies on proven QEEG technology to train the brain to better regulate itself. By using audio and visual cues neurofeedback training programs inform your brain when deviant or abnormal activity arises allowing your brain to make proper adjustments. While much of the “learning” process is unconscious, neurofeedback trains your brain to stay in states of optimal functioning and avoid the imbalance errors it would previously make.

Neurofeedback Changing Brain Waves
In addition to the many studies done showing subjective improvement of patients symptoms after neurofeedback training, a number of studies have demonstrated neurofeedback’s objective ability to significantly change underlying brain wave activity. One such study measured their participants brain activity before and after 6 sessions of neurofeedback training in comparison to a control group and showed a significant change in brain wave activity in the neurofeedback group. The graph below demonstrates the significant changes in brain wave activity that neurofeedback training caused in comparison to a normal non-trained group as based on a study done in 2016. (Oh, Hyun-Ju, Song, Gui-Bin 2016.)

changes in brain wave activity

Continue reading →

Natural Neurofeedback

, , , , , , , , Get Help, Holistic, Mental Health, Neurofeedback

Welcome to Natural Neurofeedback

Natural Neurofeedback is a blog dedicated to the emerging practice of  EEG (Electroencephalogram) neurofeedback therapy. Neurofeedback therapy is a relaxing and universally beneficial type of brain training that can both improve overall mental functioning and peak performance, as well as be used to treat a number of different psychological disorders and dysfunctions.

While not yet a widespread or common practice, neurofeedback has already shown to produce strong results in a variety of different settings through a wide number of different studies which I look forward to sharing on this site.  But before I delve into the research and studies surrounding neurofeedback, I’d like to give a general introduction to how the process works.

What is Neurofeedback?

Neurofeedback is a relatively new type of therapy that uses real time brain scans to help better regulate the brain and improve its functioning.  A healthy brain is based on well regulated and balanced levels of different brain waves such as Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, and Theta. By using simple non-invasive sensors, a clinician is able to see your live brain activity including these various types of brain waves.  Many psychological disorders and dysfunctions can be traced to an imbalance in brain waves thus regulating these brain waves serves to treat the disorder or at least improve the symptoms. If your brain isn’t functioning at an optimal level, you may experience fatigue, insomnia, disinterest, brain fog or difficulty concentrating.

Although some forms of neurofeedback will put the clinician in control of guiding brain wave activity in different parts of the brain, Natural Neurofeedback believes the body is best able to assess and fix itself.  Our neurofeedback system Neuroptimal presents your brain with the information it needs to correct itself. Our Neuroptimal system reads your brain activity while calming visuals and audio are played. Whenever the client’s brain activity becomes unstable or undesired, a brief skip in the audio tells the brain to change its functioning for better efficiency.  This simple form of feedback allows the brain to learn how to control and improve its regulation of different brain waves. Essentially, the brain is able to see a reflection of itself as in a mirror and uses that information to fine tune its functions just as someone looking at themselves in a mirror is able to greater control their own facial expressions.

While this process may seem difficult or complex, the best part is that your brain does all the hard work for you.  By merely being alert and engaged during sessions which lasts between 40 minutes and an hour your brain will unconsciously recognize it’s deficits and train itself to fix them.  Client’s can expect to see significant and lasting difference after ten sessions. Usually treatments are once or twice a week. While nearly anyone can benefit from the increased mental sharpness and focus that comes from neurofeedback, this therapy is especially effective in treating a number of different disorders such as ADHD/ADD, Anxiety, Alzheimer’s, and Depression, Autism, Traumatic Brain Injury, Seizures, Stroke and more.  Most importantly, neurofeedback is virtually risk free with no side effects and no chance of conflicting with any current medication or treatment plan.

As for men grappling with both anxiety and addiction, adventure therapy offers a refreshingly dynamic path to healing. Instead of sitting in a sterile room talking through struggles, participants are invited into nature—where challenge and unpredictability are part of the process. Rock climbing, hiking, and survival skills aren’t just outdoor activities; they become metaphors for resilience, emotional regulation, and rebuilding trust. These experiences provide real-time opportunities to confront fear, develop confidence, and build a brotherhood rooted in shared adversity. Within men’s addiction programs, this form of therapy is increasingly being recognized not as a luxury, but as a necessary intervention for those stuck in cycles of avoidance and self-doubt.

Anxiety thrives in isolation, in tight routines and sterile environments. But when the setting shifts to a rugged trail or a ropes course, something primal kicks in. Adventure therapy gives anxiety a new language to speak—one not rooted in overthinking, but in action. It encourages men to reconnect with their bodies and intuition, learning how to manage discomfort without resorting to substances. The unpredictability of nature mirrors the unpredictability of life, and in mastering one, they begin to master the other. It’s not just about surviving the outdoors—it’s about thriving in the face of fear.

Check back next week for more detailed information on some on how neurofeedback works and it’s many benefits.

Written By David Butler

Lakeland, FL

A pile of Strawberries

Strawberries

strawberries 2.jpg

Strawberry season has arrived! The Natural Medicine Center would like to briefly inform you upon the health benefits these tasteful fruits have to offer.

Beginning with nutrients, strawberries are known to be jam packed! More specifically strawberries are nutrient dense with Vitamin C, Magnese, Folate, and Potassium.

Vitamin C is beneficial for your immune system. The vitamin is also great for healthy skin and much more.

The Folate, also referred to as B9, helps with tissue growth and cell function. This is also why women expecting children and the elderly are suggested to eat strawberries or other folate rich foods.

Lastly, the potassium in strawberries helps to regulate blood pressure. Most people think of bananas as a potassium rich food, but, in fact, strawberries and many other fruits are as well.

Another perk to eating strawberries is their abundance in antioxidants. They have shown to play a role in fighting free radicals (better known as cancer cells). Some of the antioxidants found inside are Pelargondin, Ellagic Acid, Ellagitannins, and Procyanidins. The Pelargondin is responsible for the color of the strawberries, whereas the Ellagic Acid contains a chemical compound, polyphenol, that has proven to reduce the risk of chronic diseases. The Ellagitannins found within strawberries will turn into Ellagic Acids after reaching your gut. The Procyanidins, on the other hand, are actually found on the outside of the strawberry, on the flesh and inside the seeds. They have been known to prevent heart disease and cancer.

Although strawberries have all these benefits, there are also disadvantages. Strawberries had taken second place on the “Dirty Dozen” list for nearly five years before taking apples’ place for top of the list in 2016. Thus meaning that strawberries have the highest level of pesticide residue than any other fruit in the United States. Pesticides from strawberries may lead to neurological disorders, endocrine and reproductive disorders, immune system deficiencies, and possibly cancer. Studies show that pesticides are in the environment and avoiding them is extremely tough. But, keeping our toxin level down is key.

There is a ton of research supporting the fact that organic and pesticide free produce is A LOT healthier than conventionally grown strawberries, allowing us to enjoy this nutritious fruit with PEACE OF MIND.

The Natural Medicine Center is offering locally grown and pesticide free strawberries on Fridays from 2-5 pm. We hope to see you there!

Favorite Recipe

strawberry salad

  1. Combine the spinach, strawberries, goat cheese, and walnuts in a large bowl.
  2. Stir the balsamic vinegar and honey together in a bowl; slowly stream the olive oil into the mixture while whisking continuously. Season with salt and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.
  3. EAT IT UP AND ENJOY 🙂

1 – Main Vitamins Source: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods/strawberries

2- Antioxidants Source: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods/strawberries

3- EWG (Dirty Dozen) : https://www.cbsnews.com/news/new-fruit-tops-dirty-dozen-list-of-most-contaminated-produce/

4- Pesticide v Organic: http://homeguides.sfgate.com/organic-vs-pesticides-78448.html

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