Binaural Beats Music Can Reduce Depression
How to use this music therapy to ease symptoms.
Posted May 23, 2020 | Reviewed by Jessica Schrader
Studies show music can improve mood and reduce anxiety . More specifically, meaningful music shifts our neurobiology, tapping brain systems that involve emotion , sensation, attention, mood, and motivation . Music can also ease pain, lower heart rate, blood pressure, and other autonomic responses.
Music has long been used to reduce depression , generally in the mode of passive/receptive approaches, otherwise known as listening . In the last few decades, research on specific musical treatments that target frequency patterns in the brain has gained more mainstream notice. The field is known as Binaural Beats Music.
It's All About Frequency
The Binaural Beats technology was discovered in 1839 by the German physicist Heinrich Wilhelm Dove. This approach involved using different sound frequencies and measuring brain changes. The binaural experience occurred when two sounds of different frequencies were released in a headset—each in one ear simultaneously—and how the brain adjusted to the sensory difference. What Dove discovered is that the brain perceived the experience by creating a single new frequency tone. And at different frequency levels, Dove noticed patients reported either alertness, restfulness, relaxation, and other such cognitive/emotional responses.
Binaural Beats was further studied in 1973 at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York. Scientists there used the Binaural Beats technology and blended them into music—which resulted in patients experiencing a variety of physical and emotional benefits. From there, Binaural Beats has evolved into a form of music therapy that can offer significant benefits for improving mood, concentration , attention, and sleep.
Understanding Frequency Levels
Studies show that Binaural Beats at specific frequency levels offer different experiences.
Binaural Beats for Depression
For easing the symptoms of depression, listening to Binaural Beats with alpha, delta, or theta music can offer the following benefits:
How to Use Binaural Beats
There are several items you will need to buy to experience Binaural Beats Music. You must also spend time exploring this holistic approach. Lastly, Binaural Beats Music is cautioned for adults who may have heart issues or epilepsy . So checking in with your medical physician is a good idea before trying any holistic approach.
Having said the aforementioned, these are the things you need to do:
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Deborah Serani, Psy.D. , is a psychologist and psychoanalyst who lives with depression and specializes in its diagnosis and treatment.
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This article is part of the Bringwise Psychology Journal — daily insights on human behavior, mental health, and personal growth.