Electronic Mind-Aiding Machines

[Mark Briggs]

I've recently stumbled across an electronic box which might have some application in the precision shooting sports and am wondering if anybody has used the same or similar device, and what the overall experience has been like. Of course I'd love to hear how it might have impacted your shooting performance as well!

The unit I've heard of is a DAVID PAL36, which uses Audio-Visual Entrainment and Cranio-Electro Stimulation to produce altered states of mind based on altered brainwave activity. (No, I'm not talking about an electronic alternative to LSD or similar mind-altering drugs!!!) This seems be all about encouraging resonance of the brain at specific frequencies in order to produce alpha, beta, theta or delta wave states. The end goal is to facilitate relaxation, or mental alterness, etc.

Any and all feedback on this topic would be most appreciated.

[Spencer]

might be difficult to see the sights through those video glasses {:<))

Spencer

[Mark Briggs]

Ah, yes, Spencer, I knew I could count on you for a sane, logical response! ;-) Gotta keep a sense of humour (especially when looking at my scores...) LoL

Just as an aside, the company (Mind Alive) did actually make a pair of see-through goggles for a Canadian speed skater so she could train while doing using the DAVID device. So you see, even though you're an Aussie you're not as wacko as you would have us think! ;-)

[SteveT]

I tried a system from http://www.heartmathstore.com/?mtcSRCID=1690 although they have changed their products and web site since then, I think it would be the $400 "Coherence System." It provided positive feedback to help induce a relaxed and alert state. It is a fancy bio-feedback machine. I'm sure those selling it would go into great detail about how much better their machine is, but nonetheless it uses feedback of biological processes to encourage a certain state of mind.

You put a monitor on your finger, breathe deeply and think about a positive happy experience. As your brain waves come into sync with your heart (their description, not mine) your readings get higher. They had some kind of cool games you played, rather than a dial or lights for feedback, so that might be good for some.

I didn't buy one because the person demonstrating it told me I did as good or better than most experienced users. What does that mean? I don't need a machine. Relaxation, meditation and positive self-talk can do the same thing without spending a lot of money. It does not have the cool feedback, however.

Regards,
Steve Turner

[Mark Briggs]

Steve - thanks for your note. I think the major difference here is that the PAL36 isn't a biofeedback machine at all. It's a neuro-stimulator that just pumps out signal at specific rates to stimulate production of alpha, beta, theta or delta wave states in the brain. As such the user involvement is passive.

[Steve Swartz]

Also there was (is?) a device called the "Sport Link" based on Neuro-Linguistic Programming/autosuggestion (self hypnosis) principles).

You would put the goggles on and listen to the white noise CD. Meanwhile, you would visualize/use imagery along with keywords and a physical stimuls (touching tip of tongue to back of teeth, etc.).

The idea was, after training witht eh device repetitively, you could enter the desired state just by repeating the key word (autosuggestion) and physical stimulus.

Upon activation, you would enter a relaxed, but intently focused (based on imagery/visulataion template) state.

So vizualize perfect shot release with the device. Use keyword and physical stimulus in shot plan as you enter the settle.

Voila! Instant Ten!

Steve Swartz

[2650 Plus]

While assigned to the USAMU I was involved in an experience with a Doctor , espousing hipnosis as a means of increasine scores in shooting. There was one glaring problem. The Doctor couldn't shoot and after his attempts to help us m we couldnt shoot either. Let Me suggesr one more time rhat skill is developed through intelligent practice under the close quidance of a good coach and that the only short cut seems to be the mental break throughs in understsnding how your body works and how that applise to shooting good shots. There are some pretty good shooters that buy and try every new gaget that comes on the market. IMHO the money would be better spent on ammunition and fuel getting to the range. Good Shooting Bill Horton

[SteveT]

Steve - thanks for your note. I think the major difference here is that the PAL36 isn't a biofeedback machine at all. It's a neuro-stimulator that just pumps out signal at specific rates to stimulate production of alpha, beta, theta or delta wave states in the brain. As such the user involvement is passive.

Oh, I see. That is pretty cool if it works. And a little scary.