Effects of Seifu on Electroencephalography

Katsuhiko HARADA

ABSTRACT

Introduction Seifu, devised in 1992 by Xu, is a therapeutic technique of “pulling the skin”. Its effects on the blood pressure, edema, and pain were previously reported in part 1. In this report,Electroencephalography (EEG) changes between before and after Seifu were evaluated. Subjects and Methods The electroencephalograph was performed using an FM-717 biofeedback system (FUTEK, Yokohama, Japan). EEG was recorded for 1 minute each before and after Seifu, and changes in brain waves were analyzed. The subjects were 7 males and 39 females with a mean age of 74.7±16.2 years who underwent Seifu for 5 minutes or longer (5-30 mins, mean : 13.8±6.3 mins) a total of 131 times. EEG was also recorded for 1 minutes each before and after Seifu by 2 Seifu therapists. Results The percentages of β-dominant (p<0.05) and θ-dominant (p<0.001) periods significantly decreased, and the percentages of α2-distribution (p<0.01) and α3-distribution (p<0.05) periods significantly increased. With one therapist, β waves decreased, after both the first and second Seifu treatments. With the other therapist, α1 and α2 waves increased, but θ waves decreased, after both the first and second Seifu treatments. Discussion The results indicate that sleepiness was resolved, tension was mitigated, and the level of relaxation rose, after Seifu. In other words, Seifu brought about a feeling of calm wakefulness. This suggests an increase in serotonin secretion after Seifu. Serotonin generated from tryptophan is a neurotransmitter with an antidepressant effect and causes composure and a sense of stability. An increase in serotonin secretion is reported to induce calm wakefulness and α2-dominant EEG traces. Therefore, the results of our study suggest that Seifu treatment of a sufficient duration stimulates serotonin secretion. Seifu is performed by “simple and constant rhythmic movements”. The technique of Seifu closely resembles that of grooming. Such simple and constant rhythmic movements are considered to stimulate serotonin secretion, and grooming reportedly increases serotonin secretion in both the groomer and groomed. Therefore, the health of not only the Seifu recipient but also Seifu therapist is considered to be promoted by increased serotonin secretion. Conclusion The changes in EEG traces after Seifu of a sufficient duration suggested increased serotonin secretion. Seifu is considered to promote the health of not only the recipient but also the therapist by increasing serotonin secretion.