What are Binaural Beats?
Binaural Beats are created when your brain receives two different frequencies
simultaneously – one in each ear – that your brain will analyze and attempt to sync-up with. For example, if a tone in your right ear is a frequency of 110Hz and a tone in your left ear is a frequency of 120Hz, this would create a middle tone of 10Hz. This middle tone is called a binaural beat.
Using binaural beats can increase brainwave activity and enhance multiple functions of the brain through various brainwaves. The Five Brainwave States:
Delta: 0-4Hz
Delta is the slowest of all five brainwave frequencies and is often used to reach a deep sleep state. During this period of deep sleep, the brain starts to slowly produce large delta waves, allowing the body and mind to heal and detach from awareness.
Theta: 4-7Hz
Theta is most commonly used for deep relaxation and meditation. It is also known as the twilight state which one typically experiences before drifting into sleep or meditation. The theta state is known to enhance your intuition and memory.
Alpha: 7-13Hz
Alpha is the most pleasurable and relaxed state of consciousness which is essential for anxiety and stress relief. This alpha wave is also known to enhance visualization and creativity.
Beta: 13-40Hz
Beta waves are often associated with increased attention and alert states. When
listening to beta waves, your mind is sharp and focused, helping you concentrate and think clearly.
Gamma: 40Hz
Gamma are the fastest of the brainwave frequencies. Gamma is associated with peak concentration, this state signifies the highest state of focus possible. With this high state of focus and concentration, brings inspiration and higher learning.
Benefits of Binaural Beats:
Dr. Vincent Giampapa, MD, Former President of American Board of Anti-Aging Medicine, tested the effects of binaural beats on hormones. Studies showed that by listening to binaural beats, there was an increased level in Melatonin and DHEA as well as reduced levels in Cortisol.
•Cortisol is found in the adrenal glands and impacts learning and memory. Too
much cortisol can cause stress, this is why binaural beats can be beneficial.
•DHEA is used as a “source ingredient” for virtually every “good hormone”, and is
known to boost immunity. Listening to binaural beats encourages the body’s
production of DHEA.
•Melatonin, besides being a sleep hormone, is a very powerful antioxidant and
immunoregulatory anti-depressant. Like DHEA, binaural beats encourages the
production of Melatonin.
Recent studies and reports suggest that binaural beats can affect mood, performance on tasks, and anxiety. In 2001, a volunteer sample of 15 mildly anxious patients were asked to listen to binaural beats at least 5 times weekly for 4 weeks. This study found that listening to the binaural beats resulted in a significant reduction in their anxiety.
How to use Binaural Beats:
When using binaural beats you must wear headphones! Binaural beats work by
inputting two different frequencies in each ear to entrain the brain into the desired state which can only be achieved when using headphones. Make sure the space you choose is free from any distractions so that you can fully relax and engage in your experience.
Prior to listening to binaural beats, it’s important to set an intention for your experience.
Depending on what you are seeking, your intentions will vary. It is best to clear your mind of all thoughts and direct your focus on the sounds. Be patient with yourself in the process, depending on how open your mind is, it can take less or more time to feel the effects of the binaural beats.
Resources:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11191043
http://www.centerpointe.com/articles/articles-research
