What is Roshi?

Roshi is a form of EDS (Electroencephalographic Driven Stimulus) or more specifically, EDF (Electroencephalographic

Disentrainment Feedback), which is a type of brainwave entrainment utilising variable light and/or magnetic stimulation to

disentrain or "reset" the brain’s activity to a more desired state. The stimulation can be set so that the frequency of the
stimulation varies depending on the trainee's existing dominant brainwaves.

How Does it Work?

The Roshi trains simultaneously at two electrode sites. The system samples at 128 samples per second and amplifies the

raw EEG at a gain of 82000 in each channel. The signals obtained are subjected to a Fourier Transform analysis that is

preformed at the 128 samples per second data rate. These Fourier magnitudes are then subjected to the standard 1-4 Hz

(Delta), 4-7 Hz (Theta), 8-13 Hz (Alpha), 12-15 Hz (Beta) frequency filters.

For example, ADD/ADHD and many other mild neuropathologies usually have lower than usual blood flow and since Roshi is

marketed only as a meditation and peak performance trainer, not a medical device, its task is to normalize individuals for

improved, clearer thinking performance.

When the individual’s own brainwaves are played back to the brain using the Roshi, the brain goes about the task of

correcting the apparent errors in its own patterns, seeking coherence, synchrony and balance. This effort calls for more

energy, thus more blood flow and this increases the overall neurometabolism.

The Roshi system is more variable since it is EEG-driven and not delivered at a set frequency so therefore it is less likely to

produce habituation or fatigue. With less fatigue there follows a more enhanced effect.

Using power and/or coherence EEG training, coupled with complex adaptive audio visual stimulation (AVS) or electro

magnetic stimulation ( EMS), the training becomes very powerful and changes in perception reported by the trainee are fast,

strong, long lived, if not permanent. The changes are reflected in all areas in which the brain is responsible for control.

Choice of the electrode placement is made following a QEEG assessment. Depending upon the electrode positions chosen

and the frequencies trained (in an Enhance or Inhibit mode), changes in the cognitive, emotional as well as in the body's

perceptual functions will be observed. These changes are often correlated to constant changes followed by stabilization

and enhancement of parasympathetic/ sympathetic nervous system ration to achieve the relaxation response.

How is Roshi different from other neurofeedback systems?

Traditional neurofeedback or other small audiovisual stimulation (AVS) devices require the therapist to determine targeted

brainwave frequencies independent of the client’s existing brainwave activity. With the Roshi, the reward frequencies are

determined by the client's own dominant brainwave activity. Although traditional neurofeedback and AVS devices evoke

similar changes in brain functioning, with Roshi this rate of change is greatly accelerated. The Roshi is unique to all other

systems in that it accomplishes change through phase-shifting. Many other types of neurotherapies accomplish change

through frequency-shifting. (Phase-shifting is concerned with correcting imbalances of power between different parts of the

brain. Frequency-shifting is concerned with changing frequencies at one location at a time in the brain.)

The Roshi is an inhibit-based strategy, focused on changing or diminishing ongoing or "stuck" dominant patterns in the

 
Are There Any Side-Effects With the Roshi?

Most side effects reported are unexpected pleasant results.

Discussions with therapists who have used the Roshi on hundreds of clients has disclosed that negative side-effects are

rarely if ever encountered. If they are, they usually involve short-term fatigue or a transient headache. Whether this occurs

from session fatigue (working too hard or straining during the session) or from the mechanism of action of the Roshi is

unclear.

Who can benefit from a Roshi session?

Just about anyone can benefit from Roshi. It has been utilised since 1992 in the United States of America as a peak

performance enhancer, however, in the past five years the device has been used clinically with some success in the following

conditions:-

  ADD/ADHD

  Mood disorders: Depression, Anxiety and panic attacks

  OCD: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

  PTSD: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

  CFS: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

  FMS: Fibromyalgia

  Brain Injury - Mild closed head injury and Traumatic (TBI)

  Tremor

  Arrhythmia

  Sleep disorders

How long do the sessions take?

Generally a Roshi session lasts for half an hour, but may be extended depending upon presentation. 2- 3 sessions often

have immediate and noticeable results, but in some chronic conditions 70 sessions or more may be required to have

maximum benefit and provide lasting tangible effects.

References:

Chuck Davis: Inventor of the Roshi by email letters

Dr Victoria Ibric: "Roshi Brain/Link Protocols" - Professional workshops - iSNR Conference, 2002, Scottsdale, Arizona.

Grant Bright, Phd.: (2002), "Combining Roshi & Neuro Care Pro" - Professional workshops - iSNR Conference, Scottsdale,

Arizona.

D. Corydon Hammond, Phd.: (1999), "Roshi Compared With Rosenfeld Depression Protocol,. A Case Study", Journal of

Neurotherapy, Vo. 3(4).

D. Corydon Hammond, Phd.: (2000),"Neurofeedback Treatment of Depression with Roshi", Journal of Neurotherapy, Vol 4

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