Latest news with #EyeMovementDesensitizationandReprocessing
Time of India
6 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
This viral 'voodoo magic' trick is helping people fall back asleep: How simple eye motions may drift you to sleep
Waking up at 2 a.m. and struggling to fall back asleep can be frustrating, and staring at the ceiling only makes it worse. But a new viral trick gaining traction on TikTok might offer surprising relief. Nicknamed 'voodoo magic' by users, the technique involves slow eye movements performed with your eyes closed. It may sound odd, but emerging science suggests there's real neurological merit behind it. Drawing from research on sleep stages, relaxation, and eye movement therapy, experts believe this simple habit could help ease the mind back into sleep. Here's what to know before trying it during your next sleepless night. Viral sleep movement, aka the voodoo magic trick: how simple eye motions may puts you back to sleep Waking in the middle of the night can feel maddening—every second awake drags on. Amid endless bathroom trips and mind chatter, a TikTok trend has captured attention: a simple set of eye motions, performed with closed eyes, is being touted as 'voodoo magic' for falling asleep again. Users describe a sequence: look right, left, up, down, then sweep in full circles both clockwise and counterclockwise. Practitioners claim it sends them drifting back to sleep in seconds. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 11 Foods That Help In Healing Knee Pain Naturally | Zen Life Mag Undo While the method hasn't been tested directly in sleep trials, underlying research on eye movements and autonomic relaxation offers a possible scientific explanation. The science behind eye movements and relaxation Studies exploring Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) offer the most relevant data. EMDR is primarily used in trauma therapy, but physiological findings include notable autonomic effects: explicit eye movements during therapy appear to shift the balance from sympathetic (arousal) to parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) activity. In one study, heart rate and skin conductance decreased while finger temperature increased during eye movement tasks, mirroring patterns observed in early sleep stages—particularly REM sleep onset. Physiologically, REM onset is typically marked by slow rolling eye movements similar to controlled motion. Though voluntary motions don't perfectly mimic REM, they may cue the brain toward relaxation. Research by Ogilvie found that slow eye rolling correlates with drowsiness and sleep onset, supporting its potential role in signalling restfulness. A broader review of begin-sleep transitions underscores that these processes are complex but often involve slowing eye movements alongside shifting neural rhythms. How simple eye motions might support sleep While no clinical trials have tested this exact TikTok trick, its effects might be explained through established mechanisms: Cognitive distraction: By focusing on eye movement, internal noise, like racing thoughts, may fade, allowing attention to settle inward and calm. Parasympathetic activation: Similar to EMDR, bilateral eye motion may activate parasympathetic pathways, slowing physiological arousal and preparing the brain-body system for sleep. Sleep onset mimicry: Eye motion arrest during REM onset naturally corresponds with transitioning into sleep. Voluntary rolling motions may softly cue that same directional focus, nudging the brain toward rest. Practical guide: using the eye trick mindfully If you wake up overnight and want to try the technique, here's a structured approach: Keep your eyes closed to block new visual input. Perform the sequence slowly: right, left, up, down, then circle one way, then the other, pausing at each point. Breathe deeply and evenly: inhale for four counts, exhale for six while you move your eyes. Repeat as needed, staying mindful rather than anxious. Avoid checking screens or clocks, which break the sleep cycle momentum. Other sleeping strategies for middle‐of‐the‐night awakenings If this eye motion trick isn't effective for you, peer-reviewed research supports several reliable alternatives: Paradoxical intention: Rather than trying harder to sleep, lie quietly with eyes open and mentally resist sleep. This method reduces performance anxiety and promotes natural sleep onset. Cognitive distraction/counting: Engage in neutral mental tasks like counting backwards or reciting calm imagery to override intrusive worries. Relaxation breathing or progressive muscle relaxation: These methods shift the nervous system toward parasympathetic dominance and reduce arousal without pharmacological aid. No direct clinical trials validate the viral eye trick exactly. However, academic research on eye movement, autonomic regulation, and sleep transitions offers plausible mechanisms: distraction, parasympathetic activation, and mild mimicry of sleep onset signals. Importantly, these effects rely on focus and intention—not literal magic. Still, the technique's simplicity, cost‑free nature, and screen‑free engagement make it a low-risk option to try during nighttime awakenings. While individual results vary, for many, it may be enough to quiet the mind and encourage drowsiness. Also Read: No fixed bedtime raises heart attack and stroke risk by 26% and even 7-8 hours of sleep won't protect you
Associated Press
29-07-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
New Research Spotlights Mobile EMDR Apps as a Lifeline for People Facing Barriers to PTSD Treatment
A study shows the Healing Trauma App Series, based on EMDR therapy, can reduce PTSD symptoms by 40%. Created by psychologist Mark Grant, the apps aid those lacking access to therapy and are now backed by research and over 100,000 downloads worldwide. Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, July 29, 2025 -- Melbourne, June 19, 2025 – As mental health systems worldwide struggle to meet rising demand, a new 2025 study highlights a promising digital solution for people living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) especially those unable to access regular therapy. Published in the Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, the peer-reviewed study evaluated the Healing Trauma App Series (HTAS) a suite of four self-guided mobile apps grounded in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) principles. Developed by Australian psychologist Mark Grant, the apps were tested in a pilot randomized controlled trial involving 77 adults with PTSD, many of whom also experienced anxiety, chronic pain, and sleep issues. The Results: Measurable Impact Without Traditional Therapy Participants who used the app series for three months showed a statistically significant reduction in PTSD symptoms, averaging around 40% improvement. In addition to trauma relief, many reported better sleep, emotional regulation, and reduced pain. What makes this study especially noteworthy is not just the symptom relief but who benefited and how. 'We saw real progress in individuals who weren't receiving any other form of therapy at the time,' said lead author and developer Mark Grant. 'These tools show promise as practical support for people who fall through the cracks- whether due to financial, geographic, or systemic barriers.' A Bridge Between Self-Help and Therapy The HTAS apps combine audio guidance, bilateral stimulation (BLS), and trauma-focused imagery to replicate key elements of EMDR therapy, a treatment traditionally available only through trained professionals. The app suite includes: Unlike general wellness apps, these were purpose-built for trauma survivors, informed by clinical experience and EMDR methodology. While not a substitute for in-person therapy, the study suggests they may offer a stepping stone to care or a supplemental tool for those already in treatment. Meeting an Unmet Need With therapy access limited for many due to cost, location, or overloaded systems tools like HTAS may help fill a critical gap in care. Mental health professionals increasingly recognise the role of research-backed digital support in broadening access to trauma care. The study's authors recommend follow-up research with a larger sample size and therapist involvement to explore long-term outcomes and improve adherence. Already in Use- Now Backed by Data With over 100,000 downloads worldwide and consistently high user ratings, the Healing Trauma App Series is already helping people who might otherwise go without support. This study now offers scientific validation to support years of anecdotal success. Contact: Mark Grant Email: [email protected] Study Link Citation: Grant, M., Lau, R. C. K., & DiNardo, J. (2025, April 25). Feasibility and Potential Efficacy of a Mobile App Series Based on Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing: A Pilot Randomized Control Trial with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Comorbid Problems. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 19, Article 0003. About the company: Overcoming Pain is a mental health initiative founded by Australian psychologist Mark Grant. It delivers self-guided tools for trauma‑related distress, chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia, and low self-esteem, focusing on how traumatic stress impacts both body and mind. One of its major foundations is the Healing Traumatic Stress App Series, a suite of mobile applications built on Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) principles and bilateral stimulation (BLS). Each app targets specific symptoms: Anxiety Release: calming sessions to regulate stress responses Sleep Restore: dual-track programs (falling asleep and returning to sleep) blending BLS, guided meditation, and sleep hacks Developed by Mark Grant, who has over 30 years of clinical and research experience in trauma-informed pain treatment, the company blends neuroscience, imagery, self-hypnosis and brain training. We connect users to evidence-based self-help tools, books and audio resources, workshops, therapist supervision, and a rich library of articles on EMDR and trauma recovery. Contact Info: Name: Mark Grant Email: Send Email Organization: Overcoming Pain Address: Melbourne, 1 Holroyd St, Kew, VIC 3101 Phone: +61 402 122 173 Website: Video URL: Release ID: 89165944 In case of identifying any errors, concerns, or inconsistencies within the content shared in this press release that necessitate action or if you require assistance with a press release takedown, we strongly urge you to notify us promptly by contacting [email protected] (it is important to note that this email is the authorized channel for such matters, sending multiple emails to multiple addresses does not necessarily help expedite your request). Our expert team is committed to addressing your concerns within 8 hours by taking necessary actions diligently to rectify any identified issues or supporting you with the removal process. Delivering accurate and reliable information remains our top priority.
Time Business News
28-07-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
How to Choose the Right EMDR Intensive
If you are navigating the effects of trauma, anxiety, or painful memories and want a faster path to healing, EMDR intensive therapy can offer significant relief in a shorter time. Unlike weekly therapy sessions, EMDR intensives condense weeks or months of therapy into a few focused sessions, helping clients gain clarity and emotional progress more quickly. However, not all EMDR intensives are the same. Choosing the right one is essential for your comfort, safety, and long-term success. At Austin Bridges Therapy, we specialize in personalized EMDR intensive therapy that respects your pace and goals. In this guide, we'll walk through how to choose the best EMDR intensive for your needs. An EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) intensive is a specialized therapy format that offers extended sessions across one or more days. This format allows clients to stay deeply engaged in the healing process without the stop-and-start of weekly appointments. EMDR intensives are often ideal for individuals who: Want to reduce symptoms faster Are preparing for a major life event Have a limited window for therapy due to work or travel Feel stuck in traditional weekly sessions The right EMDR intensive provides more than just therapy hours. It offers safety, focus, and a supportive structure that fits your specific challenges. Choosing a therapist or program that understands your unique needs helps you make lasting progress. At Austin Bridges Therapy, we believe that your healing process should be grounded in preparation, guided by clinical experience, and supported through each stage. While many therapists are trained in EMDR, not all offer or specialize in intensive formats. EMDR intensives require a different approach to pacing, safety, and emotional management. Our team at Austin Bridges Therapy has in-depth experience in designing custom EMDR intensives. Each intensive is created based on your personal history, readiness, and therapeutic goals. We adjust the plan as needed to help you stay supported throughout. EMDR intensives can vary in structure. Here are common options: Half-Day Intensives : 3 to 4 hours of focused therapy. These are ideal for first-timers or those easing into the process. : 3 to 4 hours of focused therapy. These are ideal for first-timers or those easing into the process. Full-Day Intensives : 6 to 7 hours with breaks included. This is a deeper dive, often used by clients ready to work through specific traumatic memories. : 6 to 7 hours with breaks included. This is a deeper dive, often used by clients ready to work through specific traumatic memories. Multi-Day Formats: Offered across one to three days for those traveling in or looking for rapid progress. At Austin Bridges Therapy, we offer both weekday and weekend options, giving you the flexibility to heal on your schedule. 3. Look for Trauma-Informed Support EMDR intensives involve processing memories that can be emotionally activating. It is essential to work with a trauma-informed therapist who understands how to create a safe, grounded experience. We begin every intensive at Austin Bridges Therapy with an intake process that includes a full assessment of your emotional capacity and readiness. You will also learn coping strategies and emotional regulation tools to use before, during, and after your intensive. Healing doesn't start and stop with the intensive itself. A well-designed EMDR intensive includes preparation before and support after the main sessions. Before the intensive, you may have one or two sessions to: Clarify goals Learn self-regulation techniques Build a trusting relationship with your therapist After the intensive, integration sessions are available to help you reflect, adjust, and maintain progress. This ongoing support is part of what makes Austin Bridges Therapy's program so effective. When planning your intensive, think about what will help you feel most comfortable and supported. This includes: Whether you prefer in-person or virtual sessions If weekend options are available How far you are willing to travel Austin Bridges Therapy offers in-person EMDR intensives in Austin, Texas, with travel-friendly scheduling for out-of-town clients. We also offer virtual EMDR therapy where appropriate. A good EMDR intensive therapist should have: EMDRIA certification Specific training in trauma treatment Experience running EMDR intensives regularly It is also helpful to read client reviews or testimonials. Look for feedback that reflects emotional safety, client-centered care, and real results. At Austin Bridges Therapy, our team brings warmth, expertise, and compassion to every session. We take your healing seriously and are honored to support your growth. Personalized plans based on your trauma history and healing goals Trauma-informed therapists with advanced EMDR training Flexible scheduling, including weekend options Comfortable, private setting in Austin for in-person sessions Post-session support to help integrate your progress If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or ready to move forward in your healing journey, an EMDR intensive may be exactly what you need. Our team at Austin Bridges Therapy is here to answer your questions and help you decide if an intensive format is right for you. We offer free consultations to learn more about your goals and discuss the next steps. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time Business News
23-07-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
Unlocking Emotional Freedom: The Long-Term Benefits of EMDR Therapy
Understanding the Lasting Impact of EMDR Emotional healing isn't just about finding short-term relief — it's about achieving sustained mental and emotional resilience. For individuals dealing with trauma, anxiety, or deeply rooted emotional wounds, finding a therapy that offers long-lasting change can feel like a breakthrough. That's why more therapists and clients are turning to EMDR Therapy. EMDR Therapy, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is well-known for its immediate effects in reducing emotional distress, but what truly sets it apart is its potential for long-term healing. People who have undergone EMDR often report benefits that persist for years, fundamentally changing the way they relate to themselves, others, and their past experiences. What Makes EMDR Therapy Unique? Unlike talk therapies that rely solely on verbal expression, EMDR accesses the brain's natural healing processes through bilateral stimulation — usually in the form of eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones. This process helps rewire how the brain stores traumatic memories, effectively reducing their emotional intensity. The long-term benefits of EMDR Therapy go beyond trauma resolution. It can create a positive ripple effect throughout various aspects of a person's life, including: Improved emotional regulation Greater resilience to stress Enhanced self-awareness and personal growth Strengthened relationships Lasting shifts in core beliefs and self-worth These outcomes make EMDR not only a powerful therapeutic tool but also a foundation for lifelong mental health. Emotional Stability That Lasts One of the most profound long-term benefits of EMDR is emotional stability. Many clients begin therapy with intense symptoms — like flashbacks, panic attacks, or overwhelming sadness — and discover that even years after treatment, those symptoms remain resolved or significantly reduced. This is because EMDR targets the root of the distress, not just its surface expressions. By reprocessing painful experiences, clients gain freedom from emotional triggers that once felt automatic or uncontrollable. For example, individuals who use EMDR therapy for PTSD or childhood trauma often report long-term freedom from emotional flashbacks. Better Relationships Through Healing Attachment Wounds Unresolved trauma often affects how individuals connect with others. People with attachment injuries may struggle with intimacy, trust, or setting boundaries. EMDR Therapy can help reprocess these early life experiences and lead to improved relationship patterns. Over time, clients develop healthier attachment styles and are better able to create stable, nurturing connections. This makes EMDR an especially useful therapy for those dealing with issues like emotional detachment, relationship anxiety, or abandonment fears. Resilience to Future Stress Life doesn't stop presenting challenges after therapy ends. However, EMDR clients frequently report a new ability to handle life's stressors without falling back into emotional dysregulation. This increased resilience is one of the hallmark long-term benefits of EMDR. For example, many who once struggled with workplace anxiety, grief, or chronic stress find themselves better equipped to handle similar stressors in the future — without returning to a place of emotional crisis. They retain tools for grounding, emotional regulation, and cognitive clarity long after therapy concludes. Cognitive Shifts That Stick In addition to emotional relief, EMDR leads to lasting shifts in thinking. Clients often describe changes in their internal narrative — replacing thoughts like 'I'm not safe' or 'I'm not enough' with 'I am strong' or 'I can trust myself.' These core belief transformations are powerful and long-lasting. This mental restructuring is not just anecdotal. Neuroimaging studies show that EMDR changes brain activity patterns associated with fear, memory, and self-perception. In this way, EMDR therapy supports long-term cognitive healing and positive self-identity. Boosted Confidence and Self-Worth When emotional wounds heal, personal confidence often blooms. People who once avoided certain life experiences — such as public speaking, dating, or travel — begin to reclaim those parts of life with a renewed sense of agency. Clients who have used EMDR to overcome social anxiety, fear of failure, or body-image issues frequently report long-term gains in self-esteem and assertiveness. This empowerment helps them pursue career goals, express boundaries, and nurture fulfilling lives. Who Can Experience These Long-Term Benefits? While results vary, EMDR has been shown to be effective across age groups, trauma types, and even cultures. Those most likely to experience long-lasting results often share these traits: A willingness to engage in the therapeutic process Supportive therapeutic relationship Commitment to follow-up and integration Clear goals for healing and self-growth Whether the concern is trauma, anxiety, grief, or a combination of emotional challenges, EMDR has the potential to offer sustainable relief and personal transformation. FAQs: Long-Term Effects of EMDR Therapy Q: How long do the benefits of EMDR therapy last? A: Many clients report emotional and cognitive improvements that persist for years. Because EMDR addresses the root of trauma, its benefits are often enduring. Q: Will I need to return to EMDR therapy in the future? A: Some clients may choose to revisit EMDR for new life challenges, but many find that initial treatment leads to lasting change. Follow-up sessions are always available if needed. Q: Is EMDR effective for complex trauma? A: Yes. EMDR has shown strong results for complex trauma, including childhood abuse, repeated emotional neglect, and long-term grief. Q: What makes EMDR different from traditional talk therapy? A: EMDR helps rewire how trauma is stored in the brain, reducing emotional charge without needing to verbalize all the details. This makes it both efficient and deeply healing. Q: Can EMDR improve daily functioning? A: Absolutely. Clients often report better focus, emotional control, social engagement, and physical health after completing EMDR therapy. Conclusion: EMDR as a Pathway to Lasting Wellness EMDR Therapy is more than a short-term solution — it's a gateway to sustainable healing. Whether you're overcoming childhood trauma, managing anxiety, or simply striving for emotional growth, the long-term benefits of EMDR can be transformative. From improved relationships to mental clarity and emotional strength, its impact reaches far beyond the therapy room. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time Business News
16-07-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
The Effectiveness of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) in Trauma
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) was developed by psychologist Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s. Initially discovered as a serendipitous technique to reduce the emotional charge of distressing thoughts, EMDR has since evolved into a rigorously structured, eight-phase therapeutic protocol. Today, it is globally recognized as a frontline treatment for trauma, endorsed by organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Psychological Association (APA). EMDR distinguishes itself from conventional talk therapies through its focus on the neurological and somatic imprints of trauma. Rather than analyzing trauma through prolonged verbal exploration, it guides individuals to access and reprocess traumatic memories in a way that promotes adaptive resolution and lasting relief. Suboxone, a medication commonly used to treat opioid dependence, has a variable presence in the body depending on several factors such as metabolism, dosage, and frequency of use. Typically, the active components, buprenorphine and naloxone, can be detected in urine for up to 7 to 10 days after the last dose. How Long does suboxone stay in your system is influenced by individual differences including liver function and body fat percentage. Blood tests may detect it for a shorter period, while hair tests can reveal usage for months. Overall, the elimination time varies widely between individuals. At the core of EMDR lies bilateral stimulation—typically in the form of guided eye movements, auditory tones, or tactile pulses. These rhythmic, left-right stimulations are believed to activate both hemispheres of the brain, facilitating the reconsolidation of fragmented or 'stuck' traumatic memories. The Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model underpins EMDR's theoretical framework. According to AIP, trauma disrupts the brain's natural information processing system, leaving distressing memories unintegrated. These unresolved fragments often resurface in the form of flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance. EMDR reopens these memory networks in a safe and contained therapeutic environment, allowing the mind to process the event with new insights and reduced emotional charge. The process is neither hypnotic nor passive. It engages cognitive, emotional, and physiological elements of the traumatic memory, enabling transformation from distress to mastery. Traditional trauma therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), often require extensive verbal articulation of the traumatic event. CBT emphasizes cognitive restructuring, exposure, and skills training. While effective, this process can be emotionally overwhelming and inaccessible for individuals who struggle to verbalize their experiences. EMDR, by contrast, is experiential. It bypasses the need for detailed verbal narrative and allows the client's mind to lead the healing process. This can be especially beneficial for individuals with preverbal trauma, dissociation, or those overwhelmed by re-experiencing symptoms. EMDR allows the psyche to work from the 'bottom-up'—starting with somatic sensations and implicit memory—rather than solely relying on top-down cognitive intervention. This divergence in method has opened doors for healing in populations previously considered treatment-resistant or too fragile for traditional exposure therapies. EMDR is best known for its application in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), particularly in combat veterans, and first responders. However, its scope extends far beyond classic PTSD. Individuals grappling with complex trauma—chronic, prolonged, or repeated traumatic exposure—often experience disorganized attachment, emotional dysregulation, and pervasive negative self-beliefs. EMDR can effectively target these layers of dysfunction by focusing on core memories that shape maladaptive patterns. Children and adolescents have also responded positively to EMDR, especially those affected by neglect, abuse, or loss. The protocol can be adapted with age-appropriate techniques, including storytelling and drawing. Additionally, EMDR has been used to treat phobias, grief, addiction, and anxiety disorders, further demonstrating its versatility. The efficacy of EMDR is supported by a growing body of empirical research. Numerous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses have demonstrated that EMDR is as effective, if not more so, than other trauma-focused therapies in reducing PTSD symptoms. One notable advantage is its efficiency. Many clients report significant improvement within a shorter timeframe—often 6 to 12 sessions—compared to traditional modalities. This makes EMDR not only effective but also cost-efficient. Neuroimaging studies have revealed notable changes in brain activity post-treatment. Functional MRI scans show reduced hyperactivity in the amygdala (the brain's fear center) and increased activation in the prefrontal cortex, suggesting enhanced emotional regulation and cognitive control. These findings lend physiological credence to the subjective healing reported by clients. Despite its growing popularity, EMDR is not without its detractors. Critics argue that the exact mechanism of bilateral stimulation remains unclear, with some attributing success to placebo effects or general exposure techniques. The eye movement component, in particular, has been subject to skepticism. Another challenge lies in its accessibility. EMDR requires specialized training and adherence to a structured protocol, which may limit its availability in under-resourced or rural settings. Additionally, EMDR may not be suitable for individuals with certain dissociative disorders or active psychosis unless modifications are made by an experienced clinician. However, these limitations do not negate the growing consensus on EMDR's therapeutic value. Instead, they highlight the need for continued research, clinical training, and thoughtful application. EMDR is most effective when integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan that includes other therapeutic modalities. For individuals with co-occurring conditions—such as substance use, depression, or eating disorders—EMDR can serve as a trauma-focused anchor, while concurrent therapies address behavioral stabilization and skills development. Many clinicians incorporate EMDR alongside cognitive-behavioral strategies, somatic experiencing, or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to offer a robust and individualized healing journey. In this integrative context, EMDR provides a gateway to emotional clarity, while other modalities reinforce day-to-day functioning and relational skills. This symbiotic approach ensures that trauma resolution does not occur in isolation but contributes meaningfully to long-term recovery, resilience, and identity reconstruction. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing represents a paradigm shift in trauma therapy. By bridging neurobiology, psychology, and experiential healing, it offers a profound and efficient method for resolving deep-seated distress. In an era where trauma is increasingly recognized as a public health issue, EMDR provides a beacon of hope. Its ability to catalyze recovery, even when words fail, makes it an indispensable tool in modern psychotherapy. The effectiveness of EMDR lies not just in its technique, but in its reverence for the human mind's innate capacity to heal—when given the right conditions to do so. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
