Binaural Beats

What are Binaural Beats?

Binaural beats are an acoustic illusion that occurs in the brain. They are perceived when both ears are played tones with slightly different pitch via headphones. Binaural beats are said to influence the brain by sending different sound frequencies to the left and right ear via headphones. This acoustic illusion is then processed in the brain stem and is said to trigger certain brain waves (brain frequencies, see below).

The rule of thumb for this is as follows:

Low frequency difference = low frequency waves = relaxation / better sleep.

Greater frequency difference = higher frequency waves = better concentration, receptivity and creativity.

Binaural beats: brain frequencies

There are different brain frequencies (brainwaves) that can trigger different effects in you. So, depending on your personal situation (anxiety, depression, sadness, problems with relationships, etc.) you can choose the right binaural beat for your particular life situation. 

Brain frequencies:

Delta: 0.1 – <4 Hz

Reduction of anxiety – Deep sleep

Theta: 4 – <8 Hz

Deep relaxation – Deep sleep – Less anxiety, worry – Pain relief

Alpha: 8 – <13 Hz

Less stress – More positive thinking

Beta: 13 – <30 Hz

Better focus, concentration and attention

Gamma: > 30 Hz

Maximum attention 

Are binaural beats dangerous?

No, not in principle. However, people suffering from epilepsy (or other brain disorders (psychosis, schizophrenia, etc.)) or those at increased risk of stroke should avoid them. In case of doubt, a doctor should be consulted in any case.

Can you hear binaural beats?

Binaural sounds are pure monotone sounds. If you listened to them like this, your listening pleasure would quickly be over. That’s why they will mostly be dressed in meditative music, often in combination with solfeggio frequencies. The meditation music is then provided with sounds from nature or spiritual kind, so that deep relaxation and meditative effect can also fully develop.