Health disparities among African Americans have been reported for decades. This is especially true for cardiovascular disease (CVD) even when compared with other minority groups in America. Such disparities have been tied to perceived discrimination. A previous study found that perceived racism accounted for a substantial percentage of the variance in resting heart rate variability (HRV), an independent biomarker of cardiac health. The present study attempts to replicate such findings. This study includes 57 healthy African American individuals who met inclusion criteria. Participants were given the Perceived Ethnic Discrimination Questionnaire–Community Version (PEDQ-CV) and the Perceived Racism Scale (PRS) and had their resting HRV and blood pressure measured. After accounting for breathing rate and age, the lifetime score on the PRS uniquely accounted for up to 45% of the variability of HRV metrics. The PEDQ-CV was not found to be a statistically significant predictor of HRV. Within this sample, blood pressure was not significantly predicted by either scale. The findings suggest that lifetime perceived racism may directly affect HRV indices, which may indicate an increased risk for CVD. Further research should continue to investigate this association and potential avenues for related intervention.

In 2019, our team traveled internationally to test the effectiveness of a physiological assessment and heart rate variability (HRV) biofeedback program for a group of highly accomplished Special Forces Wounded Warriors participating in an international rehabilitative adaptive event. The intent was to offer biofeedback in a remote setting for managing and measuring stress while performing highly stressful tasks. The evaluation took place 8,000 miles from the mainland United States on the island of Saipan, the site of a tremendous battle during World War II. To our knowledge, a biofeedback system of this type has never been employed in a remote setting with this population. The transport of biofeedback equipment came with unique challenges as did providing an internet-based biofeedback project in a remote setting. Although HRV and health-related data were collected by study staff, the analysis of the data is not included in this manuscript. The purpose of this article is to provide information on key factors to consider when providing biofeedback in a remote setting, including data collection and storage in a limited internet service area; safe transport of equipment; and tools for successful biofeedback training in an isolated, international setting. We hope the information in this article will guide practitioners who plan to do similar types of biofeedback studies and interventions in the future.

This paper examines the innovative integration of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) principles with biofeedback methodologies, presenting a novel approach to psychophysiological therapy. This paper uses Kevin Polk’s structured ACT matrix approach to elucidate how biofeedback can augment ACT processes, including acceptance, cognitive defusion, and present-moment awareness. The paper explicates practical techniques such as the “Hook Words Exercise” and “Verbal Aikido,” demonstrating their application within a biofeedback-enhanced therapeutic context. This integrative approach represents a significant advancement in psychophysiological interventions, offering a comprehensive framework for deepening interoceptive awareness and fostering psychological flexibility and value-aligned living while bridging the gap between cognitive processes and physiological responses. By exemplifying assimilative integration in psychotherapy, this approach offers a promising avenue for advancing both clinical practice and research in psychophysiological interventions, potentially improving therapeutic outcomes and client engagement.

Establishing a successful neurofeedback practice requires not only clinical expertise, but also strong business acumen. Many of the suggestions in this article apply to those with biofeedback and related practices as well. This article reviews tips on leveraging resources from national organizations and local economic development options. Building a compelling brand with professional logos and adhering to ethical advertising standards are essential. A robust web presence, bolstered by effective search engine optimization, enhances visibility. Tracking client inquiries and analyzing referral sources can guide strategic decisions. Additionally, managing finances prudently and optimizing time-management skills are crucial for sustained success and personal fulfillment in this specialized field.