Biofeedback Monitoring

1. Communication with the person

1. Introduction and explanation of the process:

1. • Briefly introduce biofeedback: “This technique allows us to monitor certain functions of your body, such as heart rate, breathing and muscle tension. I will guide you in the process to improve your relaxation, body control and support better regulation of hunger, helping you reduce any episodes of emotional eating.”

   • Explain that this is a non-invasive and safe procedure.

      

2. Use of a calm tone of voice and positive body language:

• Use a calm, soothing tone of voice to put the person at ease: “Our goal is to create a serene environment where you can relax completely.”

• Maintain open, welcoming body language (a relaxed posture and slow movements) to convey confidence and tranquility.

3. Objective of the session:

1. • Specify what you intend to monitor and train: “Today we will work to improve relaxation and reduce muscle tension or stress.”

      

4. Request for consent:

1. • Ask for permission to apply sensors: “To proceed, I will apply sensors to the skin” (Explain what each sensor detects.)

      

5. Preliminary instructions:

1. • Invite the person to relax: “During the session, try to sit comfortably and breathe naturally. I will guide you step by step.”

   • Ask to remove metal objects or jewelry if they interfere with the sensors.

2. Preparation of the environment

1. Make sure the room is quiet, at a comfortable temperature and free from distractions.

2. Seat the person in an ergonomic armchair or a comfortable chair.

3. Sensor application

1. EMG sensor (Electromyography):

   • Objective: measure muscle tension.

   • Application:

     • Clean the skin with an alcohol wipe to remove oils or impurities.

     • Place the adhesive electrodes on the muscle area to monitor (e.g. the trapezius for neck tension or the forehead for headache-related tension).

     • Connect the cables to the electrodes ensuring that they are securely attached.

        

2. Respiratory sensor:

   • Objective: monitor the respiratory rhythm.

   • Application:

     • Place the elastic band around the chest or abdomen (under the bust).

     • Make sure the band is snug but not too tight.

     • Adjust the sensor to detect respiratory movements.

        

3. Skin conductance sensor (GSR):

   • Objective: detect changes in stress-related sweating.

   • Application:

     • Clean the skin on the fingertips with an alcohol wipe.

     • Attach the GSR sensors on the sides of the fingers (e.g. index and middle fingers) using adhesive electrodes or elastic bands.

        

4. Heart Rate Sensor (EKG or PPG):

   • Objective: monitor heart rate and HRV.

   • Application:

     • For the EKG: place three adhesive electrodes on the chest (usually under the left clavicle, under the right clavicle and at the base of the left rib cage).

     • For the PPG: attach the sensor to the ear lobe or finger with a clip.

        

5. Temperature sensor:

   • Objective: detect peripheral temperature variations related to relaxation.

   • Application:

     • Fix the sensor to the fingertip using adhesive tape or an elastic band.

4. During the Application

1. Explain each step:

   • Keep the person informed about what you are doing: “I will now apply a sensor that will help us monitor your heart rate. You’ll feel a slight pressure, but it will not be uncomfortable.”

      

2. Ask for feedback:

   • Make sure the person feels comfortable: “Is this sensor positioned correctly? If you’re uncomfortable, let me know.”

      

3. Check the signals:

   • Once the sensors are applied, check that the software detects the signals correctly.

   • Ask the person to perform a brief test, like a deep breath, to ensure that the data is clear.

5. Conclusion of the preparation

1. Confirm that the person is ready: “Now we are ready to start. I will guide you through some exercises and you will see how your body responds.”

2. Begin the session while maintaining a reassuring tone and constantly monitoring the person’s comfort.