Alternating bilateral stimulation is a nervous system-calming technique that involves stimulating the right and left sides of the body or brain in an alternating pattern.
Understanding Alternating Bilateral Stimulation
According to Nilou Esmaeilpour, a registered clinical counselor at Lotus Therapy, alternating bilateral stimulation is a technique used for calming the nervous system. As the name suggests, it works by alternating stimulation of the right and left hemispheres of the brain.
How is it Performed?
The stimulation can be delivered through various sensory channels. Common methods include:
- Guided eye movements: Following a therapist's finger or a light back and forth.
- Auditory tones: Listening to sounds presented alternately in the left and right ears.
- Tactile sensations: Receiving gentle taps or touches alternately on the left and right sides of the body (like hands or knees).
These alternating inputs are thought to help process distressing memories and reduce the intensity of emotional responses. While the exact mechanisms are still researched, the rhythmic, bilateral nature of the stimulation is believed to facilitate communication between the brain hemispheres and support the nervous system in self-regulation.
