Binaural Beats

Binaural beats use computer technology to assist in working with spirituality or mind/body healing. The power of binaural beats, produced by sound frequencies, can have a calming effect. Secondary effects include accelerated learning, relaxation, and many others.

Binaural beats are a technology that has been around since 1839 when discovered by Heinrich Wilhelm Dove. By introducing a frequency, such as 500Hz into one ear, and a different frequency, such as 505Hz into the other ear, the brain will interpret the differences of these two frequencies. Thus the mind will perceive a 5Hz pulse, and brainwaves of the person will begin to attune to this frequency. One feature of binaural beats is that the difference between these two tones can be decreased or increased over time. By starting at 20Hz, which is a high beta frequency that represents alertness, and moving the difference down through 7Hz, the mind will go through alpha and into theta. The theta state represents a deep, hypnotic relaxation. This state is very useful because the mind becomes more suggestible, making theta very important for making changes.

Certain frequencies produced by the binaural beats allow for accelerated learning. Other applications have included treatment of addictions, anxiety and synchronization of brain hemispheres. In addition, they have been used in audio CD programs to enhance their effect and meditation to reach a relaxed state much quicker. Because of their calming nature, binaural beats can aid in helping people to fall asleep.

To understand how different frequencies of the binaural beats technology work, it is important to make mention of different categories of brainwave activity. The five most agreed upon ranges of brainwave activity include:

1.    > 40 Hz: Gamma, intent focus such as playing sports or piloting
2.    13-40 Hz: Beta, mental alertness or active thinking
3.    7-13 Hz: Alpha, light relaxation or daydreaming
4.    4-7 Hz: Theta, dreaming, deep meditation or deep hypnosis
5.    < 4 Hz: Delta, deep sleep without dreaming.

There are some cautions about binaural beats to be made aware of however. Some may find the choppy, “helicopter” sound to be rather distracting. Some may feel restless, while those with certain conditions such as epilepsy should consult with their doctor before trying any sound technology new to them. Sometimes, a soft noise such as a waterfall or ocean waves can be used with the binaural beats to make them more natural.

Usually, a computer is used with specific software to produce the binaural beats. However, singing bowls and tuning forks have been used. Computers tend to make the progression much easier because they produce a dynamic range. A lot of research has been done, and continues from the paranormal, to nature and performance enhancement, with regard to binaural beats.