Binaural beats are an auditory illusion perceived when two or more pure tones of similar frequencies are presented dichotically through stereo headphones. Although this phenomenon is thought to facilitate state changes (e.g., relaxation), few empirical studies have reported on whether binaural beats produce changes in autonomic arousal. Therefore, the present study investigated the effects of binaural beating on autonomic dynamics [heart rate variability (HRV)] during post-exercise relaxation. Subjects (n = 21; 18–29 years old) participated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study during which binaural beats and placebo were administered over two randomized and counterbalanced sessions (within-subjects repeated-measures design). At the onset of each visit, subjects exercised for 20-min; post-exercise, subjects listened to either binaural beats (‘wide-band’ theta-frequency binaural beats) or placebo (carrier tones) for 20-min while relaxing alone in a quiet, low-light environment. Dependent variables consisted of high-frequency (HF, reflecting parasympathetic activity), low-frequency (LF, reflecting sympathetic and parasympathetic activity), and LF/HF normalized powers, as well as self-reported relaxation. As compared to the placebo visit, the binaural-beat visit resulted in greater self-reported relaxation, increased parasympathetic activation and increased sympathetic withdrawal. By the end of the 20-min relaxation period there were no observable differences in HRV between binaural-beat and placebo visits, although binaural-beat associated HRV significantly predicted subsequent reported relaxation. Findings suggest that listening to binaural beats may exert an acute influence on both LF and HF components of HRV and may increase subjective feelings of relaxation.
Maximally fast, self-terminated elbow flexion movements were performed by 10 male and 10 female college-aged subjects to assess potential gender-related differences in kinematics and the triphasic electromyographic (EMG) pattern. The subjects were instructed to move their forearms as fast as possible through 90 degrees of elbow flexion range of motion and stop as sharply as possible at the terminal point. An electromagnet, set to 0, 40, and 70% of each subject's maximal isometric torque, provided resistance to movement initiation and resulted in quick release movements. Surface EMG was collected from the biceps b. and triceps b. muscles. Results indicated that the males had faster movements and accelerations under all conditions. EMG records indicated that the males had faster rates of EMG rise, particularly in the triceps b., and more tightly coupled reciprocal activation. The quick release afforded faster accelerations for both groups, yet only the males moved faster throughout the full range of motion. Following the quick release, the males differed from the females by increasing the triceps b. EMG amplitude. Hence, the males were able to shorten movement time in quick release movements by increasing triceps b. activation and, thus, braking ability. These results suggest that the females were more neurally constrained than the males with respect to rapid EMG activation of the triceps b., resulting in limits in the braking process.
The Feldenkrais Method has recently been discussed to fit within a dynamic systems model of human movement. One basis for this discussion is that small changes in one system--for example, enhanced body awareness--has far reaching implications across the whole of human performance. An alternative view on the Feldenkrais Method is argued here. It is argued that the clinical data do not support the Feldenkrais Method as being an effective way to improve motor performance. Further, it is argued that positive outcomes in pain and other wellness measures following Feldenkrais interventions can be ascribed to self-regulation. As part of this discussion, the role of body awareness, attentional focus, and kinesthesia in motor leaning and control are explored.
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