A simple head band is used within which there are  sensors and an infra-red light.  It is easy to administer and comfortable to wear.

HEG (hemoencephalography) is the study of blood flow in the brain. More specifically, it is the study of voluntarily controlled blood flow or oxygenation in specifically chosen brain modules. 

Brain activation is an exercise. Fresh blood brings in the necessary nutrition, oxygen and the glucose, that supplies the energy for a brain module to efficiently do its assigned job. Exercise affects the brain much like it affects muscles. New capillaries are formed to feed neurons. New connections between neurons are formed to carry information. Like a muscle, with exercise, the brain builds a vascular system, enabling more brain tissue for use by this brain area. The brain grows physically. With exercise, the brain builds a vascular system, enabling more brain efficiency in its use. Exercise is the road to a healthy brain! 

HEG is very resistant to movement artifact and does not respond to eye movements at all. This feature makes pre-frontal cortex exercise simple and practical. Voluntary control of blood flow in the pre-frontal area is quickly learned, seldom requiring as much as 5 minutes and most often happening in less than one minute. The results are quantifiable as growth in vascularity between exercise sessions.

As a dynamic system, the brain may be continually degenerating and regenerating to maintain equilibrium at its current volume. Intentional brain activity can then raise the current level to a more useful condition and the “Use it or lose it” (Diamond et al., 1975) metaphor may be applicable.

HEG provides a simple way to increase neural demand for energy to fuel the basic angiogenic process that supports brain plasticity. “Neural progenitor cells proliferate in response to growth factors that are associated with angiogenesis…” (Palmer, Wilhoite, & Gage, 2000) and it is certainly possible that the increased blood flow after HEG training may be the result of angiogenesis.

It has been found to have a more rapid response to some challenges than that of other systems and has scientific research to give the comparison between HEG and EEG.  It is a matter of choice and trial  – both by the trainee and the trainer to establish which is preferable and more effecitive for that client.

It must be noted that biofeedback is not a panacea nor instant fix.  It is a complimentary tool that when combined with the appropriate interventions and professional skills, produces powerful results.  It is not intended to treat or diagnose any disease or disorder, nor replace any medical advice or treatments.