Isochronic Tones & Healing Theraphy
WHAT
Isochronic tones are used in the process of brainwave entrainment. Brainwave entrainment refers to a method of getting brain waves to sync with a specific stimulus. This stimulus is typically an audio or visual pattern.
WHY
Isochronic tones are used for brainwave entrainment, in which your brain waves are made to sync with the frequency that you’re listening to. It’s believed that syncing your brain waves to a certain frequency might be able to induce various mental states.
Brainwave entrainment techniques, such as the use of isochronic tones, are being studied as a potential therapy for a variety of health conditions. These can include things like pain, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and anxiety.
It’s thought that using isochronic tones and other forms of brainwave entrainment can promote specific mental states. This may be beneficial for a variety of purposes including:
attention
promoting healthy sleep
alleviating stress and anxiety
perception of pain
memory
meditation
mood enhancement
HOW
Isochronic tones are single tones that come on and off at regular, evenly spaced intervals. This interval is typically brief, creating a beat that’s like a rhythmic pulse. They’re often embedded in other sounds, such as music or nature sounds.
Brain waves are produced by electrical activity in the brain. They can be measured using a technique called an electroencephalogram (EEG).
There are several recognized types of brain waves. Each type is associated with a frequency range and a mental state. Listed in order from highest frequency to lowest, five common types are:
Gamma: a state of high concentration and problem-solving
Beta: an active mind, or normal waking state
Alpha: a calm, restful mind
Theta: a state of tiredness, daydreaming, or early sleep
Delta: a deep sleep or dreaming state
Isochronic vs. Binaural and Monaural beats
Unlike isochronic tones, both binaural and monaural beats are continuous. The tone isn’t turned on and off as it is with an isochronic tone. The way that they’re generated is also different, as we’ll discuss below.
Binaural beats
Binaural beats are generated when two tones with slightly different frequencies are presented to each ear. The difference between these tones is processed inside your head, allowing you to perceive a specific beat.
For example, a tone with a frequency of 330 Hertz is given to your left ear. At the same time, a tone of 300 Hertz is given to your right ear. You would perceive a beat of 30 Hertz.
Because a different tone is given to each ear, using binaural beats requires the use of headphones.
Monaural beats
Monaural tones are when two tones of similar frequency are combined and presented to either one or both of your ears. Similar to binaural beats, you’ll perceive the difference between the two frequencies as a beat.
Let’s use the same example as above. Two tones with frequencies of 330 Hertz and 300 Hertz are combined. In this case, you’d perceive a beat of 30 Hertz.
Because the two tones are combined prior to you listening to them, you can listen to monaural beats through speakers and you don’t need to use headphones.
How is all of this supposed to work?
Let’s look at a few simple examples:
Lower frequency brain waves, such as theta and delta waves, are associated with the sleep state. Therefore, listening to a low frequency isochronic tone might potentially help to promote better sleep.
Higher frequency brain waves, such as gamma and beta waves, are associated with an active, engaged mind. Listening to a high frequency isochronic tone could possibly aid in attentiveness or concentration.
The intermediate type of brain wave, alpha waves, occurs in a relaxed state. Listening to isochronic tones within the alpha wave frequency may be examined as a way to induce a state of relaxation or aid in meditation.
How to use Isochronic Tones
The most common way to use Isochronic Tones is for a short-term benefit. They provide a chemical-free alternative to things like coffee, energy drinks, alcohol, pills and other forms of medication. The key word here is ‘alternative'. They are not meant to replace any prescribed medication by a Doctor or medical professional.
Example 10Hz Isochronic Tone
10Hz isochronic tone – 10 beats per second
Are they safe?
There haven’t been many studies into the safety of isochronic tones. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind before using them:
Keep the volume reasonable. Loud noises can be harmful. Noises above 70 decibels over a prolonged period of time can cause hearing damage. For example, normal conversation is about 60 decibels.
Use caution if you have epilepsy. Some types of brain entrainment may cause seizures.
Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid using the more relaxing frequencies when you’re driving, operating equipment, or performing tasks that require alertness and concentration.
The bottom line
Isochronic tones are tones of the same frequency that are separated by short intervals. This creates a rhythmic pulsing sound.
Isochronic tones are used in the process of brainwave entrainment, which is when your brain waves are deliberately manipulated to sync with an external stimulus like a sound or image. Other examples of auditory entrainment types are binaural and monaural beats.
Like other types of brainwave entrainment, using isochronic tones could potentially be beneficial for a variety of health conditions or for enhancing mood. However, research into this area is currently very limited.
More research has been performed into binaural and monaural beats. So far, it indicates that they may be beneficial therapies. As with isochronic tones, further study is necessary.
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