
Neurophysiology-Based Alternative Health Approaches
Chapter from the book:
Çakar,
F.
&
Kaplan,
M.
(eds.)
2025.
Functional and Alternative Approaches in Health Sciences.
Synopsis
This chapter provides a systematic overview of neurophysiologically-based alternative health approaches, which have been gaining increasing scientific credibility in recent years. Methods such as neurofeedback, biofeedback, mindfulness, breathing exercises, meditation, mirror therapy, and motor imagery are examined in terms of their regulatory effects on the nervous system. The rebalancing of the autonomic nervous system, modulation of cortical activity, and support of neuroplasticity are highlighted as core mechanisms. Supported by objective tools like functional neuroimaging and EEG, these interventions have been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, insomnia, chronic pain, migraine, and attention deficit. Additionally, neurophysiologically grounded physical therapy methods (e.g., Bobath, PNF, mirror therapy) contribute to motor function recovery in neurological rehabilitation. The literature reviewed in this chapter demonstrates that such practices lead to lasting improvements at both biological and behavioral levels. The integration of these scientifically validated techniques into multidisciplinary healthcare holds strong potential for individualized and holistic treatment processes.