“Sound is touch at a distance.” says Anne Fernald, Professor of Psychology at Stanford University.
what are brainwaves?
Brainwaves are the natural internal (biological, neurochemical) rhythms of the brain.
These rhythms operate in different patterns as a result of our state of consciousness. Perhaps you have heard of the different stages of sleep? These stages are distinguished by their difference in brainwave frequencies per stage. However, it is not just in the sleep state that we experience changes in our brainwave frequencies…
We are constantly in a state of fluidity.
Brainwave patterns change with activities such as relaxing, problem-solving, exercising, and as mentioned before- sleeping. At any given time, one of these patterns will be dominant, although it is possible for different areas of your brain to be in engaged in different levels of activity.
There are four primary brainwave patterns (Beta, Alpha, Theta, and Delta) and a fifth, lesser known pattern (Gamma):
Beta brainwaves are associated with a heightened state of alertness, focused concentration, critical thinking, decision making, and problem solving. When we are engaged in mental activities, your dominant brainwave state will be Beta, and it is common for individuals to spend the majority of the workday producing Beta brainwaves. In the Beta state, neurons fire rapidly in the brain, contributing to peak performance. Athletes, corporate executives, powerful negotiators, and high achieving students produce Beta brainwaves when they are performing to their greatest potential. Beta brainwave states correspond to frequencies ranging from 12 Hz to 40 Hz.
Delta brainwaves are the lowest of the brainwave frequencies and are found during deep, dreamless sleep, although they may also be achieved in deep levels of meditation. Delta waves are associated with deep levels of relaxation, optimal physical healing, and a slowing of the aging process. Delta brainwaves correspond to frequencies ranging from 0 Hz to 4 Hz.
Alpha brainwaves are lower in frequency than Beta brainwaves and take place during relaxation, contemplation, and visualization. The Alpha state is an intensely pleasurable and peaceful state of consciousness. Alpha brainwaves are associated with deep levels of creativity, insight, and inspiration. Artists, musicians, and athletes produce an abundance of alpha brainwaves, which are associated with peak performance. Alpha brainwaves are integral in reducing Cortisol levels, decreasing the negative effects of stress, and improving our immune system. Alpha brainwave states correspond to frequencies ranging between 8 Hz to 12 Hz.
Theta brainwaves are even lower in frequency and are found during deep levels of relaxation, meditation, hypnosis, and enhanced creativity. They are also found during the transition from wakefulness to sleep and sometimes during dreaming. Spending increased amounts of time in a Theta state can improve our well-being and overall health, and result in a reduced need for sleep. In the Theta state, the mind is in tune with the vibrational energy of the earth’s core. This is where you can easily access your inner power and achieve heightened levels of consciousness. The Theta state is a common brainwave pattern utilized when practicing clinical hypnosis. Theta brainwave patterns range in frequencies from 4 Hz to 8Hz.
Gamma brainwave patterns are the most rapid in frequency and receive the least attention in research. Gamma waves are associated with bursts of insight, high-level information processing, and the highest state of focus possible. They also clear mental fog and boost energy. Gamma waves have been known to aid in increasing hand-eye coordination, and are ideal for improving athletic performance. Gamma brainwaves correspond to frequencies of 40 Hz or higher.
What is brainwave therapy?
Brainwave Therapy is a growing field of study and is used as a tool by people of all different orientations and focuses. It is a safe and natural way to healing and personal development.
It has been used by millions of people to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve sleep, enhance the effects of meditation, and promote feelings of relaxation, tranquility, and inner peace.
I chose to partner with Brainwave Technologies because of the quality of their audio products. Each product is comprised of binaural beat frequencies paired with relaxing music and sounds of nature that were captured through a binaural microphone. Binaural beat frequencies work to synchronize the two hemispheres of your brain and restore the natural homeostasis of your mind and body. Think of them as a tool to re-harmonize your mind and body. Brainwave Therapy has been highly cited in neuroscience research as a powerful tool to achieve peak performance.
“Music seems to slow heart rate, lower blood pressure, and reduce levels of stress hormones. It can also provide some relief to heart attack and stroke victims and patients undergoing surgery.
Research suggests that music may promote the brain's ability to make new connections between nerve cells. Another idea is that it works its magic through its rhythms.
Humans are rhythmic beings: Our heartbeat, breathing, and brain waves are all rhythmic. The human brain and nervous system are hard-wired to distinguish music from noise and to respond to rhythm and repetition, tones, and tunes.”
- Dr Kamaroff of Harvard Medical
music and massage therapy
When you last had a massage- if you’ve had one- can you remember what the music was in the atmosphere?
Did your therapist even know?
It has been well established that through the entrainment transformation principle, the vibrational frequency that I play during your session has a powerful- even profound- effect on your subconscious mind.
Measuring vibrations is not a modern invention.
In fact, we have been harnessing vibrational resonance for as far back as ancient Egypt.
Vibrational frequencies are measured on a scale called the Hertz scale, and these frequencies have been measured in this fashion since the German physicist Heinrich Rudolf Hertz proved the existence of electromagnetic waves in 1887.
Bringing it back to now, I like to utilize binaural beat frequencies to help YOU achieve a state of healing.
Here’s why I utilize binaural beats:
All matter emits a vibrational frequency, but not all vibrations are created equal, so to speak. The Solfeggio Frequencies have been historically linked to mathematics and religion- and are said to have a powerful impact on one’s state of mind.
More specifically, these frequencies have the ability to entrain the subconscious mind into a heightened state of awareness. With this awareness comes an increase in the potential for growth and healing.
This is why I integrate the specific use of sound by way of vibrationally tuned music into my bodywork practice.
