Binaural Beats for the Brain
Today we’re looking at how binaural beats can affect your brain and overall well-being. We’ll cover what they are, how they work, and how they could improve your ability to meditate, focus, fall into a deep slumber, and much more.
What is a Binaural Beat?
When you listen to two tones with different frequencies at the same time, your brain creates the illusion of a binaural beat, interpreting them as one singular beat.
Let’s look at how this works:
The two tones presented align with your brain waves, forming a single beat with a new frequency.
That resulting frequency is the difference between the two frequencies.
For example, let’s say you listen to a sound with a frequency of 147 Hertz (Hz) in your right ear, and 133 Hz in your left.
Instead of hearing these as two separate frequencies, what you actually hear is a sound with a frequency of 14 Hz, which is the difference between the two.
This auditory illusion created by your brain has been said to induce the same mental effect as that of a deep meditation, but with a lot less work!
Binaural beats are said to have a host of potential benefits, including:
Increased concentration and focus
Reduced levels of stress
Lower anxiety
A more positive mindset
Higher levels of creativity
Improved sleep
Better memory retention
Increased cognitive function
Pain management
The Five Brain Waves
Your neurons utilize electrical signals when producing your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. When these neurons synchronize, brain waves are created. There are five different brain waves, all ranging in amplitude and frequency. These brain waves are what form binaural beats, and they all have slightly different effects. They are known as:
Delta
(Between 1-4 Hz.) Beats in this lowest frequency range have been associated with a reduction in cortisol (the “stress hormone”), resulting in the ability to deeply meditate, relax, sleep, and relieve pain.
Theta
(Between 4-8Hz.) Binaural beats in the theta frequencies are linked to states of meditation and increased creativity, as well as reduced anxiety and REM sleep states.
Alpha
(Between 8-14Hz.) The alpha mind state is one of productivity and focus, thought to cultivate a tranquil sense of relaxation.
Beta
(Between 14-30Hz.) Beta waves are in the higher frequency range, and their benefits are said to include a high level of cognition that encourages problem-solving and analytical thinking.
Gamma
(Between 30-100Hz.) Gamma brainwaves have an even higher frequency than beta, and have been shown to aid in learning, memory, and training.
Binaural beats are best experienced using headphones and in a comfortable space free of distractions. You might find that closing your eyes deepens the experience. They may help your brain to better deal with stress and anxiety, and help you to focus, and sleep. Try experimenting with various sounds and frequencies across the spectrum for varying lengths of time to find the perfect balance for you.