Can Music Help Reduce Stress?

Recently scientists have found that specific frequencies can manage brain waves and when properly combined can provide stress relief.  With this information many people are creating libraries of music with the specific purpose of benefiting our health.  Some of this incorporates audible information and some uses subliminal information.

These incorporate what has been found by scientists and called entrainment which is when different sounds of similar frequencies are sent to each ear.  This happens when the brain adjusts to the difference between the two frequencies and attempts to match that different frequency.  This is known as a binaural beat and the brain adjusts its wave output to that frequency.

For instance, if the difference in frequencies between the two ears is 15 cycles per second then the brain will match its wave output to that frequency.  It has been found that brain waves affect mood, level of relaxation and focus.  Since brain waves are electromagnet their frequency can be measured with the proper measuring instruments.

Specialists believe they have determined the frequencies associated with particular states of mind.  Observed behavior is determined by brain wave frequencies.

During normal waking hours, the range of frequencies our brain emits is called Beta.  The frequency is fifteen cycles per second and higher.  Our mind is likely randomly selecting one thought then another with no focus on any particular topic.  This is what might be called the range that supports multi-tasking.

Dropping down a level is the Alpha range.  Our brain emits waves in the frequencies of eight to fourteen cycles per second and this is associated with what is generally called alert relaxation.  This is generally just before we awaken or fall off to sleep.  It can also be exhibited when we daydream or “nod off”.

Slowing down even more is what is known as the Theta range of between four and seven cycles per second.  This the period of REM sleep, dreaming and deep meditation.

The very slowest brain wave activity is known as the Delta range at less than four beats per second and is often the period of deep dreamless sleep and body rejuvenation and healing.

With this knowledge it is possible to use frequency combinations to create a desired mental state as raising or lowering the brain wave frequency can excite or relax the listener.  Some have suggested that it may be possible to cause the body to release certain hormones on demand.

Studies have shown that the time necessary to learn things may be decreased with a program that produces theta wave frequencies.  It has been found that children typically maintain longer periods of theta wave state and they learn new concepts more easily than adults.

It is also speculated that altering brain wave frequencies may be beneficial in such behavorial patterns as overeating, smoking, stress handling and ADHD.
This therapy is still in its infancy with new breakthroughs every day that lead to greater knowledge and benefit to all of us.  It is interesting to learn that this may also be used for stress management as well.

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