LST (Light Stimulation Therapy)

 

What is LST?

LST enhances learning abilities and sports performance by stimulating the eye and brain with light. It has the objective of improving health and human performance by optimizing brain function. Since most sensory input to the brain is in the form of visual light perception, light has the greatest influence on brain function and is the focus of this non-invasive technique. The Downing Technique was developed by John Downing, O.D., Ph.D. during 20 years of research and clinical observation in the study of neurosensory stimulation. LST is an adaptation of Downing’s technique, which involves the use of rhythmic colored light into the eyes for a period of 20 minutes over 20 consecutive sessions. The flashing light at various rates of speed functions as a catalyst for mind-body healing. It has had enormously successful results in the following areas: concentration, memory, reading, test anxiety, creativity, stress reduction, self-esteem, hyperactivity (ADD), chronic fatigue and chronic pain syndromes.

How Light Affects the Brain

Over the past 60 years, neuroscience has established our dependence upon light perception for much more than just seeing the world around us. Acting as photocells for the brain, the eyes convert light energy into electrical energy. Light- generated electrical stimulation travels throughout the brain, promoting better brain and body function.

Light Stimulation Deficit

Clinical evidence suggests that such factors as heredity, stress, head injuries, emotional trauma and poor lighting can decrease the ability of the eye to transform light energy into electrical energy, creating a deficit. Most people have some degree of these deficits. This means that a great many individuals are not functioning optimally in the areas of vision, health and human performance.

LST begins with the measurement of the visual field to ascertain whether light is being processed effectively and efficiently in the brain. A series of comprehensive questionnaires help to determine certain areas of the brain that may be affected as well. This information is used to specify the necessary colors of light to be utilized by each individual to restore balance. Eleven different wave bands of color have been found to be effective stimuli for this purpose. By increasing the efficiency of light processing in the brain, LST can improve stimulation of brain activity, reactivate neural pathways, improve intellectual, mental, emotional, and physical well being and quality of performance.

How LST is Administered

LST is administered by having an individual sit comfortably in a darkened room looking at the proper waveband of colored light which is focused directly on the eyes.
Sessions last 20 minutes. Assessment results determine the number of series required [20 sessions per series.] Clients are required to have 3 to 5 sessions per week until the total of 20 sessions is completed. At the end of each 20-session series, there is a reevaluation to determine the necessity of further treatment and/or to adjust the color protocol.

Who Can Benefit from LST?

• Children ages 5-7 to enhance early learning development skills
• Children ages 8-12 for behavior modification, learning and sports enhancement
• Teens in the areas of sports performance, educational achievement, SAD
• Adults and children with learning difficulties including ADD, ADHD, dyslexia, poor concentration and memory
• Adults and children who suffer from Self Esteem issues, Mood and Behavior Disorders, Anxiety, Stress, Depression and Light Sensitivity

Contraindications for LST

Clients with severe mental or emotional disturbances such as schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders are not appropriate candidates for this therapy, nor are those suffering from “photo-convulsive” epilepsy. Those suffering from eye diseases should obtain permission from their optometrist or ophthalmologist before experiencing LST. Those with portal hypertension or high blood pressure need permission from their physician.

 

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