Thermographical analysis of the warmth of the hands during the practice of self-regulation method.

The changes in surface temperatures of the hands, and the permeation of warmth in the hands during self-regulation method (SRM), a new method of self-control, were studied in 5 trained subjects and in 5 beginners. Temperature changes were measured by thermography. Results indicated that both beginners and trained subjects showed similar significant increases in maximum hand temperatures during SRM, however, trained subjects showed significant increases during the control period as well. Further, both groups showed significant increases in the area of warmth permeation during SRM, however, trained subjects also showed a significant increase during the control period. There was a statistical difference between the two groups for the area of warmth permeation at both the end of the control period and the end of SRM. Thus, in SRM, although beginners seem to be able to raise their hand temperatures in a similar degree to trained subjects, the area of warmth permeation is significantly greater in trained subjects than in beginners. These results indicate that SRM is relatively easy to master for beginners. From these results, the technique of SRM, psychophysiological aspects of SRM and methods of self-control in general, and some issues regarding their clinical applications are discussed.