Over the course of time, sometimes months to years, meditative practice allows the diligent student the ability to remain consciously aware at different rates of brainwave activity than that of waking state [beta]. It has also been observed that various types of drumming, from tribal to raves, provide a rapid access to trance states based upon the rhythm combined with overpowering volume of sound. In some manner these sounds alter brainwave state through a process usually referred to as entrainment. Once a particular brainwave state is achieved in this manner, it becomes easier to access the state without necessarily having to use the technology again.
For the individual wishing to experience a more solitary experience of binaural beats than tribal drumming, there are several options, ranging from CDs to light-sound machines. Robert Monroe studied the ability of sounds provided at slightly different pitches to cause an entrainment of brainwaves which related to the difference between the sound frequencies in each ear.
As one example of this technology, LoopLogic515 created by Christopher Olive and Michael Landgraf is a simple CD which has high quality sound to provide binaural beat technology. This is likely one of the least expensive means to use binaural beats in meditative experience. A stereo headset is required for the CD to work properly, and noise canceling helps remove external distractions. Also important for this particular item is the ability for your CD player to repeat a single track nearly indefinitely. Each track provides binaural entrainment to the brainwave frequency equal to the number of the track, but since each track is only two minutes in duration, it is necessary to repeat the track in order to have time for an adequate meditation session. The CD is definitely not designed to play from beginning to end, rather you select the brainwave rate and use that throughout a single session. Entrainment rates range from 1hz to 37hz on this CD.
Binaural beats aren’t for everyone, but they have become a passion of mine and i believe definitely work in terms of bringing the mind to center. I struggled to get to grips with the sound at first, but after some dedication I honestly couldn’t live without ending my day with a session. There is a powerful free 10 minute download here if you want to try this meditative technique out. http://www.ennora.com/ennora/sample.php
I’ve used some binaural beat guided meditations, and I’ve found them to work well for me. I find the beats do relax me, and the voice over the beats works well for me. I’m just a beginner in meditation, so I find the guided meditations a good way for me to focus.
I have been researching binaureal beats for some time in an attempt to try and define their usefullness, and though im not a great fan of the pure tones as they can prove to be a little annoying. I have found that tones embedded in a piece of music to be beneficial and relaxing.
I agree with your subjective experience entirely. The pure tones can sometimes be a hinderance to relaxation and sometimes be a benefit. It seems to depend a lot on my state of mind. gb
This cd is certainly a great way to provide those who want to incorporate binaural beats in to their meditation sessions. There are so many methods and tools to make enhance the quality and outcomes of meditation. I have found meditation chairs to be helpful in getting comfortable during my own sessions, and in turn really allowing me to remain in the right frame of mind. I look forward to experimenting with binaural beats.