EEG Neurofeedback #

How to Train Your Brainwaves

Overview #

EEG Neurofeedback is a form of brain training that uses real-time measurements of your brainwave activity to help you learn to change it — consciously and consistently.

Using an EEG headset and software, you receive immediate feedback (visual, auditory, or tactile) on your brain’s activity. Over time, this can help improve focus, relaxation, emotional regulation, and even sleep.

As many altered states of consciousness are related to particular brainwave frequencies, training your ability to shift brainwave frequency at will could make it easier to achieve these states. For example the Dream Machine works by entraining your brain towards Alpha frequencies through flashing lights. Training with EEG neurofeedback will increase your awareness of how your brain works and ultimately give you more control over your mind.

Theory #

EEG (Electroencephalography) measures electrical activity in the brain via sensors placed on the scalp. Brainwaves are grouped by frequency:

With neurofeedback, you aim to encourage or reduce specific brainwave patterns by reinforcing desired activity (e.g., increasing Alpha for calm, reducing high Beta to relieve anxiety).

EEG neurofeedback is not a medical treatment, though it has been studied for ADHD¹, anxiety², and PTSD³.

Step-by-Step Guide #

1. Materials Needed: #

• A consumer EEG headset (e.g. Muse, OpenBCI, Neurosity Crown, or Emotiv)
• Neurofeedback software (free or paid; e.g., BrainBay, Mind Monitor, Myndlift)
• A computer or tablet (depending on headset/software)
• Notebook or app to log sessions and perceived effects

2. Setup and Calibration: #

1. Charge and wear the EEG headset securely — ensure good contact with the scalp.
2. Launch the neurofeedback software and run initial calibration.
3. Select a training protocol (e.g., increase alpha, reduce theta, stabilize beta).

3. Training Sessions: #

1. Begin a short session (10–20 minutes is typical).
2. Stay relaxed and focused — watch your feedback (a moving graph, tone, animation, etc.).
3. Try different mental strategies (e.g., visualization, calm breathing) to see how they affect the signal.
4. The software will reward desired brainwave shifts (e.g., smoother music, brighter visuals).
5. Log what worked and how you felt after the session.

4. Session Frequency: #

• Start with 3–5 sessions per week, keeping the same protocol and environment
• Review patterns weekly to see if performance is improving or stagnating

Expected Outcomes #

Effects vary by individual — but neurofeedback often trains you to feel your own brain state and modulate it with less equipment over time.

Risks & Considerations #

• Overtraining: Too much or the wrong protocol can lead to fatigue, brain fog, or anxiety
• Frustration Loop: Results can be subtle at first — don’t overthink it
• Data Quality: Poor sensor contact = noisy or useless feedback

Further Exploration #

• Measure effects of Dreamachine or binaural beats: Watch in real time to see if protocols are achieving the desired effects
• Compare Devices: Try low-cost (Muse) vs. research-grade (OpenBCI)
• Add Biofeedback: Combine with HRV, breath, or skin conductance monitoring
• Experiment with Mind-Wandering Tasks: Observe how brainwaves shift with different cognitive loads

Call for Reports #

If you used EEG monitoring during over protocols, then please mention that on the relevant experience form.