What is the Low Energy Neurofeedback System (LENS)?
How does LENS work?
LENS (Low Energy Neurofeedback System) is a gentle brain-based therapy that helps the brain and nervous system reorganize and function more efficiently. Small sensors are placed either on the head or sometimes on the body. These sensors simply read the brain’s electrical activity in real time. The information is sent to specialized software that briefly reflects a very tiny signal back to the brain.
Sometimes we begin with sensors on the body first to help calm and stabilize the nervous system before working directly with the brain. This can help the body and brain become more regulated and prepared for the process.
The signal used in LENS is extremely low energy — much weaker than the signal from a cell phone — and is only delivered for a few seconds.
The purpose is not to force the brain to do anything. Instead, it gives the brain information about its own activity, allowing it to naturally reset and reorganize patterns that may be stuck. You can think of LENS like holding up a mirror to the brain. The brain sees what it is doing and can make its own adjustments to improve balance and efficiency.
Because each person’s nervous system is unique, the brain itself decides how it wants to respond. The practitioner’s role is simply to guide the process and adjust the settings so the brain receives the information in a way it can use effectively. Many people find that as the brain becomes more regulated; symptoms such as anxiety, stress, trauma responses, sleep difficulties, mood issues, or concentration problems begin to improve.
Examples to Help Understand LENS
Since LENS works like a mirror for the brain, neither the practitioner nor the client can force a specific change. Instead, the brain uses the information to make adjustments on its own.
Example 1: Looking in a Mirror
Imagine you are getting ready for an event and carefully choose an outfit. When you put it on, everything seems fine.
But when you look in the mirror, you notice something is off. Maybe the shirt doesn’t match as well as you thought or the accessories need adjusting. The mirror didn’t change your clothes — it simply gave you information. With that information, you decide what adjustments to make.
LENS works in a similar way. It reflects information about the brain’s activity so the brain can recognize patterns that may not be working well and make its own adjustments.
Example 2: Improving Your Form
Think about learning a movement at the gym, in yoga, or in dance. While you’re doing the movement, it may feel like you’re doing it correctly. But when you look in the mirror, you might notice your shoulders need to relax or your posture needs adjusting.
The mirror provides feedback that helps you improve your form. LENS provides similar feedback to the brain. When the brain becomes aware of its patterns, it can naturally adjust and function more efficiently.