subject: Improve your brain performance by brain wave entrainment [print this page] Improve your brain performance by brain wave entrainment
Brainwave entrainment is a technique which was introduced about 40 years ago by a university professor in the US.
How?
In fact, the professor carried out an experiment with a batch of students at the university to whom he exposed gamma brain wave at a particular frequency while they were studying. The result was that batch of student performed better than the other students at the exams. This lead to further study of brain waves.
What is the mechanism of brain wave entrainment?
Brainwave entrainment or "brainwave synchronization", is any practice that aims to cause brainwave frequencies to fall into step with a periodic stimulus having a frequency corresponding to the intended brain-state (for example, to induce sleep), usually attempted with the use of specialized software.
Brainwave tones' were generated by specific software and they are classified as binaural beats, isochronic tones, and monaural beats. Each brainwave tones' operate differently and each tone can produce alpha, gamma, beta and theta waves at different frequencies.
Which is the most effective brainwave tone'?
It has been scientifically proven that isochronic tones tend to be more effective as they work faster. Isochronic tones are also practical because they can be listened both loudspeakers and headphones unlike binaural and monaural beats which require headphones.
What is the feedback from the public using brainwave tones'?
Surveys carried out reveals that students making use of gamma brainwave are improving on their memory and can concentrate better. Meditators making use of alpha and theta brainwave are getting a lot from their meditations. Moreover, people suffering from fibromyalgia and insomnia are recovering gradually by listening to binaural beats. In some cases, Brainwave tones' has also eliminated addiction.
Now, gamma brain waves are being used to help children with disabilities.
Any dangers?
Brainwave tones are generally harmless. However, it is to be noted that brainwave tones should not be forced upon the brain. It is always advisable to get the maximum information from the software provider.
Below is a chart showing brain waves, their frequencies and functions.
Brain waves
Wave
Frequency
Mental State
Beta
12Hz - 38Hz
Alert, focused mental state. This is the state that most people are in during the bulk of their waking hours. Self programming techniques at this level is not effective, since the subconscious mind is not easily accessible.
Beta wave stimulation can have a massive impact on intelligence, mood, emotional stability and other mental states. This state can be induced to increase focus and train the brain to study and learn.
The closer to the top of this frequency range the more likely the person will be to feeling anxious and wired.
Alpha
8Hz - 12Hz
Awake but very relaxed. Not processing any information. This is the state most people are in when driving along a freeway, gazing at a candle or a lava lamp, or 'in a stare'.
This is the state you are in upon awakening in the morning or while daydreaming
It is this state where the vividness of visualization techniques are enhanced and where the mind is very receptive to suggestion and programming.
Theta
3Hz - 8Hz
Close to sleep, or in a hypnogogic (trance) state. No information is being processed the eyes are closed.
Theta is also known as the 'hyper-suggestible state where mental programming and recorded suggestions are most effective. This is an ideal state for brainwave entrainment.
Gamma
38Hz - 70Hz
A gamma wave is a pattern of brain waves, associated with an elevated state of sensory activity and an acute state of awareness.
Some think that gamma bursts in the brain are related to those 'eureka' moments of discovery.
People exposed to this level of entrainment often feel agitated, nervous and anxious.
