emWave by HeartMath Institute

In conjunction with neurofeedback therapy, Dr. Montes may also recommend other therapeutic devices. Heart rate can effect our emotions and decision making skills. Heart rate is determined by two branches of the autonomic nervous system, the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic (vagus) nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system accelerates the heart rate while the parasympathetic nervous system slows the heart rate. Heart rate variability (HRV) is the combination of these two systems and the measurement of beat-to-beat changes in heart rate. Monitoring HRV gives insight into the function and balance of the autonomic nervous system. Using emWave to monitor heart rate, we can see individual variabilities in each beat, something that is unique to emWave. 

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The brain and heart are connected in more ways than one.  It was originally believed that the brain only sent signals to the heart. However, in recent years, researchers have found that the heart has the ability to send just as many signals to the brain. This continuous back and forth loop has lead many to understand just how important emotions are to the heart and the brain. When the two branches of the autonomic nervous system are in sync, our brains releases 'feel good' chemicals like dopamine and serotonin.