CBT-BF™ Technique
CBT-BF is a technique of therapy which incorporates cognitive-behavioral interventions with tools of biofeedback and mindfulness.
What Does BF stand for?
1. BioFeedback
One of the most common, efficient techniques of dealing with various anxiety disorders is the combination of Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and biofeedback. In this type of treatment, the patient acquires methods of dealing with thoughts and situations which provoke anxiety. These methods include altering negative cognitive patterns and catastrophic interpretations, training with relaxation techniques to facilitate regulation of bodily reaction to stress, and gradual exposure sessions to fearful situations. It is recommendable to also use tools of Mindfulness, Positive Psychology, Schema Therapy, Guided Imagery, Hypnosis etc.
2. Brain Flexibility
Brain flexibility is measured by the extent to which different brain parts are variously linked by a wide range of interconnections. It is defined by one's capacity to simultaneously think about multiple abstracts all at once or the ability to quickly switch concentration from of one abstract to another. Flexibility is an executive function which is a critical component of the process of learning. It is assumed that flexibility also predicts quality and ease of one's learning. Flexibility is both inherited and acquired by certain types of activities (i.e. types of sports such as dancing).
3. Body Focus
One of the central principles of the CBT-BF™ technique is the unity of body, mind and spirit. Therapeutic work in the spirit of CBT-BF™ inherently refers central meaning to body sensations in any experience, with the understanding that the body and its various manifestations entail profound psychological dimensions.
4. Being-Feeling
Patients often describe CBT as lacking an emotional aspect, or as a "mechanical" form of treatment. Behavioral therapy is based on the principles of action (doing). The ability to "be" (being), to remain in a particular state, allows for emotional involvement to occur which is an essential element in therapeutic processes. Mindfulness work develops patient's curiosity for one's different emotional states as he practices staying (being) in them without attempting to modify, alter or eliminate them. This provides the opportunity for emotional experience (feeling), which patients typically feel is missing from classic behavioral-cognitive therapy.
5. Building Flow
Flow mode (Flow), is a state of increased focus and dedication to artistic, professional or playful activities. It is a state in which we operate automatically with complex skills in the face of challenges. Some see this concept as analogous to ecstasy (without the use of psycho-active substances), as described by many renowned artists and scientists in time of great creations. Studies in the field of Positive psychology show that Flow Mode is the basics of a happier life, henceforth achieving ability to spontaneously enter such a state, may have profound positive effect on one's well-being.