[[What is a VisionQuest]] "Sound is the medicine of the future." - Edgar Cayce ## History The word “isochronic” is derived from the greek words “"ἴσος" (isos), meaning same and "χρόνος" (chronos), meaning “time” Isochronic tones were discovered by Dr. Arturo Manns in 1981 by a scientific study conducted at the Universidad de los Andes in Santiago,Chile. Dr.Auruto’s work indicates that isochronic tones are “stronger” and “more distinct” when compared to binaural beats and have a stronger brainwave entrainment effect. (There hasn’t been a peer-reviewed study yet to confirm this)[[Benefits of Isochronic tones](https://www.diygenius.com/isochronic-tones/#:~:text=Isochronic%20tones%20were%20discovered%20in%20a%20scientific%20study,the%20Universidad%20de%20los%20Andes%20in%20Santiago%2C%20Chile.) ## What are Isochronic Tones? Isochronic tones consist of evenly spaced pulses of sound( usually at a single tone) which act upon helping in inducing specific frequencies of brainwaves. When exposed to isochronic tones, the brain may synchronize its own electrical activity to the external stimuli (aligning with the frequency of the tones) Isochronic tones are defined as a simple tone being on and off rapidly.  [[a simple tone being on and off rapidly]] Which means that isochronic tones can be of any frequency, provided they recur at regular intervals(Mostly rapid)   [example video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AiQ2dV6m1ig) The intended purpose and individual sensitivity to certain frequencies is to be considered when selecting the frequency and duration for the isochronic tones.  The frequency has a direct influence with the “aimed” mental state (Lower frequencies are associated with deep relaxation and sleep, while higher frequencies in the beta range are linked with concentration and alertness) The desired brainwave entrainment session length should align with the duration of the tones.  ## Isochronic Tones Vs Binaural Beats  Binaural Beats are the difference between the two, pure-tone sine waves which require headphones. Headphones are compulsory for experiencing binaural beats Whereas while dealing with isochronic tones, headphones are not required as, isochronic tone can be simply described as a tone that is ' being turned on and off rapidly' Binaural Beats are discouraged for people with epilepsy. Isochronic tones can be listened to in a group via a speaker. Isochronic tones are not preferred at Low frequency (delta-theta), but are proven to have accelerated benefits for higher frequencies (Focus, studying) Isochronic tones have not been as researched as the binaural beat. Isochronic tones have to be turned on and off unlike the continuous binaural beats. It is preferred  to be as close to the source as possible and to be aligned perfectly with the sound for maximum effect of the entrainment. Isochronic tones must be audible to be effective, the audibility factor is a potential obstacle for many, as people want to listen to meditation music to relax, meditate, focus  etc. But if one doesn’t like the sound that they listen to it's unlikely that they are going to achieve the desired states successfully  ### Isochronic Tones 1. Standard sessions don’t require headphones  2. Isochronic tones make stimulation more effective by producing a stronger ‘cortical evoked response’ in the brain 3. They were discovered in 1981, with relatively less research  4. Isochronic tones need to be heard quite prominently  5. Many people find the pulsating nature of isochronic tones rather unsettling. [[Isochronic vs Binaural](https://www.mindamend.com/brainwave-entrainment/isochronic-tones/)] ### Binaural Beat 1. Headphones are compulsory for experiencing Binaural Beats track effectively  2. Produces a relatively smaller “cortical evoked response’ in the brain 3. Not effective in higher range of frequencies (Beta, Gamma) 4. They were discovered in 1839, with relatively more research  5. Binaural beats can be mixed very low in musical composition 6. Binaural beats are pleasurable to hear  ## Binaural Beat vs Monaural Beat Monaural beats differ from Binaural beats in sound, Monaural beats pulsate from a low volume to a high volume, whereas binaural beats have very little change in volume and might appear more as a constant tone. A Stereo system is capable of playing two signals, one from the left channel and one from the right, while also being able to play mono sounds.  Mono sounds can be defined as audio signals that are mixed and then routed through a single audio channel, this cause the sound in each ear being identical (refraining from spatiality) A mono sound is reproduced through speakers(each of them reproducing a copy of the same signal)  Mono is a single signal, and stereo is two signals (or more)  Out of isochronic, monaural and binaural beats, the binaural beat is the most pleasant to hear, making it easier to mix music and sound over lay with the binaural beat(making it a more marketable product) ## Harmonizing Music and Isochronic Beats A study by [Doherty Comac](https://esource.dbs.ie/items/6bd7eb99-c28e-46fb-945f-4aea678fea8f) in 2014, shows that Music has no effect on brainwave entrainment. However this study was done on [influence of monaural auditory stimulation combined with music on brain activity](https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/human-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnhum.2023.1311602/full) (the point being the use of music in brainwave entrainment). which shows that the power of theta active band significantly increased when listening to modified music. Preferred music genre plays a factor when combining music with isochronic tones. For example if a person dislikes a specific genre, it would make it harder to sit through the session. Similarly   a user preferred genre might make one feel more comfortable and relaxed while putting one in a more receptive mental state ## Habituation - How to counter #### What is it? Habituation is a form of non-associative learning in which a non-reinforced response to a stimulus decreases after prolonged appearances of that stimulus. For example rock squirrels are commonly habituated (animals) in the park. If someone comes close to the squirrel (for taking a picture or observing it) the squirrel will flee. After this happens many times, the squirrel becomes less afraid of people, and anybody can come closer before the squirrel scampers away.[[habituation](https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-habituation-2795233)] #### Brainwave entrainment This is also the case for brainwave entrainment. Our brain can start to get used to the stimulation hence causing a decrease in its effectiveness.  The brain and body become less sensitive to the same stimulus over time. In the context of Brain entrainment the following measures can be taken to counter Habituation. - Mixing of genres and tones - Listening to different volumes  - Regularly changing frequencies - Combination of Multiple entrainment techniques within a single session (visual stimuli) ## Split Hemispheric Isochronic Tones This [[study published in 2013](https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/08/130814190513.htm)]  debunked the famous myth of every individual being ‘right-brained’ or ‘left-brained’ Although it is correct that particular brain functions occur in one or the other side of the brain, hence resulting in a higher activity on one side when compared to the other. When being creative, our right brain has been showing the most activity because, majority of people contain creative functioning on the right side of their brains. Processing Language is associated with the left side of the brain. Left brain is more verbal and analytical, and orderly than the right brain, also being referred to as ‘digital brain’ due to its relative efficiency when compared with the right brain at things like writing and computations. Right brain is more intuitive, visual and creative. The lateralization of brain function refers to how some neural functions, or cognitive processes tend to be more dominant in one hemisphere than the other.  Isochronic tones can be used for split hemispheric stimulation. Each ear is stimulated with a different speed of tone. This enables us to target a specific side of the brain and to increase or decrease brainwave frequency on the desired side compared to the other. Some common uses of split hemispheric stimulation can be ADHD and performance anxiety( It is common to experience a hemispheric balance before a stressful situation, like a speech or an exam) .People diagnosed with ADHD have an overabundance of slow wave brain activity, specific in the left frontal region. Headphones are required for a split-hemispheric stimulation session with the isochronic tones.  The brain operates in a cross-wired manner, with each hemisphere controlling the opposite side of the body : the left brain managing the right side while the right hemisphere governing the left side.  ## Isochronic tones and brainwave entrainment Isochronic tones are widely used in brainwave entrainment in which the brain and the brain waves of a subject are to sync with the frequency provided. It’s believed that syncing brain waves to a certain state might be able to induce various mental states. Brainwaves are produced by electrical activity in the brain, they can be measured by electroencephalogram (EEG). Isochronic tones, being the newest technological advancement in the field of brainwave entrainment cause an effect caused the ‘Amplitude Entrainment’ which tends to excite the thalamus which causes the brain to generate the same brain wave frequency (Frequency following response’ as the tone.  The thalamus is a paired gray matter structure of the diencephalon located near the center of the brain. It is located above the mesencephalon or midbrain, permitting for nerve fiber connection to the cerebral cortex in all directions. Each thalamus connects to the other via the interthalamic adhesion.. The thalamus has multiple important functions such as sensory and motor relay, the regulation of consciousness and sleep.   ## Isochronic tones and Frequency Following Response (FFR)  Frequency following response (FFR) is a ‘neurophonic auditory evoked potential that reflects the efficient encoding of speech sounds and is disrupted in a range of speech and language disorders’ This response is relevant in the context of isochronic tones (which are a type of auditory stimulus used in brainwave entrainment) The brain will attempt to match its own electrical activity, when being exposed to isochronic tones. (The brainwave frequencies synching with the frequency of the external stimuli) For example the brain may shift its ‘dominant frequency’ to match the range of isochronic tones. The core idea being that by entraining brainwaves to specific frequencies, desired mental states can be achieved more readily. Some studies suggest that isochronic tones may help improve focus, enhance learning and promote better sleep quality. Many apps offer pre-recorded isochronic tones designed for different purposes, allowing the user to choose the frequencies that aligns with their goals( relaxation or concentration) [[Isochronic Tones and Frequency Following Response (FFR)](https://soundtherapynearme.com/therapeutic-music/frequency-following-response-ffr-music-sound-work/)] ## Studies This is a conclusion of a study conducted on Rhythmically Enhanced Music as Analgesic for Chronic Pain. “A two-month study of music listening with isochronic theta beats embedded, with frequency and tone harmonically proportional with the music’s tempo and key, showed a significant effect in pain reduction. Mean change in NPS at time of report during the study was from 4.1 at the beginning, and 3 at the end of the study, a reduction of 27%. More striking was the change in mean-adjusted medication dosages, from 176 mg to 57 mg, indicating that the music effectively replaced two-thirds of pain medication. This result calls for further research with a larger population and controls, over a longer period. Resumption of pain reported by some volunteers on stopping listening after 4 weeks suggests that a longer period may be needed to allow music analgesia, potentially involving BWE, to result in long-term changes. In addition, a larger study population and controls are needed to determine if these results can be extrapolated, and to determine if there could be a public-health benefit in listening to such music. A single listening session per day for a longer period of 3–4 months will avoid the difficulty some volunteers had of incorporating an hour of listening into a daily routine, and will give greater time for brainwave entrainment.” Full research : [[Rhythmically Enhanced Music as Analgesic for Chronic Pain: A Pilot, Non-Controlled Observational Study](https://www.mdpi.com/2673-9976/7/1/2)] Research indicates that Isochronic tones can help with disorders such as ADHD, PD, epilepsy, chronic pain, and anxiety [.[Effects of binaural beats and isochronic tones on brain wave modulation: Literature review | Revista Mexicana de Neurociencia](https://www.revmexneurociencia.com/frame_esp.php?id=161)] [[Treatment for insomnia with isochronic tones and white noise](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/372939667_Treatment_for_Insomnia_with_Isochronic_Tones_and_White_Noise/link/64ceee03d394182ab3a74731/download?_tp=eyJjb250ZXh0Ijp7ImZpcnN0UGFnZSI6InB1YmxpY2F0aW9uIiwicGFnZSI6InB1YmxpY2F0aW9uIn19)] Isochronic tones have been proved to have improve Memory, Cognition, Focus and Motivation [[Isochronic tones](https://www.vortex-success.com/isochronic-tones/)] However some research such as this study, funded by Red Bull High Performance, Red Bull North America indicates that Music Augmented With Isochronic Auditory Beats or Vibrotactile Stimulation Does Not Affect Subsequent Ergometer Cycling Performance. Study: [[Music Augmented With Isochronic Auditory Beats or Vibrotactile Stimulation Does Not Affect Subsequent Ergometer Cycling Performance: A Pilot Study](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/354557529_Music_Augmented_With_Isochronic_Auditory_Beats_or_Vibrotactile_Stimulation_Does_Not_Affect_Subsequent_Ergometer_Cycling_Performance_A_Pilot_Study)] A study concluded by Tina L Huang(2008) suggested that brainwave entrainment can help improve reading and arithmetic skills in school aged children. This can suggest potential benefits of gamma frequencies for improving skills like math.  Full research : A review of the psychological effects of brainwave entrainment](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/23246357_A_comprehensive_review_of_the_psychological_effects_of_brainwave_entrainment#:~:text=Findings%20to%20date%20suggest%20that,behavioral%20problems%20benefited%20from%20BWE) ## Photic Stimulation  Intermittent photic stimulation (IPS) is a common procedure performed in the electroencephalography (EEG) laboratory in children and adults to detect abnormal epileptogenic sensitivity to flickering light. [[Guidelines](https://www.ilae.org/guidelines/guidelines-for-photic-stimulation#:~:text=Intermittent%20photic%20stimulation%20(IPS)%20is,light%20)]. The photic driving response represents repetitive visual evoked potentials produced in response to the photic flash.[[Methodology](https://www.ilae.org/files/ilaeGuideline/PhoticStimulation-2012-.1528-1167.2011.03319.pdf)] Mental Imagery alone can trigger seizures in individuals with photosensitive epilepsy. This is the complex interaction between mental processes and neurological responses. [[Mental imagery of photic stimulation provokes paroxysmal EEG activity in a photosensitive patient who self-induces seizures | Neurological Sciences](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF01999569)] The interesting aspect is that some individuals can mentally recreate the same patterns that would normally trigger seizures, this highlights a strong connection between external sensory perception and internal mental processes.  ### Placebo Effect  Placebo effect is when a person’s physical or mental health appears to improve after taking a “dummy” or placebo treatment. The placebo effect is triggered by the person’s belief in the benefit from the treatment and the expectations of feeling better. Researchers use placebos during studies to help them understand what effect a new drug or some other treatment might have on a particular condition. For instance, some people in a study might be given a new drug to lower cholesterol. Others would get a placebo. None of the people in the study will know if they got the real treatment or the placebo. Researchers then compare the effects of the drug and the placebo on the people in the study. That way, they can determine the effectiveness of the new drug and check for side effects. ### Nocebo Effect The nocebo effect is the opposite of the placebo effect. Nocebo pimples that patients are more likely to experience an adverse effect if they expect or are worried about the adverse effect. The adverse effects may be physically experienced by the patient and are often clinically diagnosable When users engage in brainwave entrainment sessions, their expectations about the outcome can influence how their brain responds to the auditory stimuli. ## Brainwave Entrainment Vs NeuroFeedback - Entrainment is used for pushing a brain into a specific state, whereas neurofeedback trains to encourage and teaches an individual to reach that desired state through themselves. - Brainwave entrainment uses external stimuli to induce brainwave changes while NeuroFeedback provides real-time feedback for the purpose of self-regulation of one’s brain activity. - Brainwave entrainment is generally used for meditation, sleep and cognitive enhancement while neurofeedback is primarily used in clinical settings for treating a variety of psychological and neurological conditions.   - NeuroFeedback requires professional equipment while brainwave entrainment can be done by home due to the widely accessible audio tracks and devices - Brainwave entrainment is less customized and relies heavily on a generalized stimuli, where as Neurofeedback is highly personalized, as it is tailored to the individual’s specific brain activity patterns  [[Types of Brainwave Entrainment](https://www.diygenius.com/consciousness-hacking-with-brainwave-entrainment/)] ## Additional Research  [https://meditationmusiclibrary.com/blogs/wednesday-wisdom-blog/binaural-beats-vs-isochronic-tones-which-is-more-effective](https://meditationmusiclibrary.com/blogs/wednesday-wisdom-blog/binaural-beats-vs-isochronic-tones-which-is-more-effective) [https://braintap.com/binaural-beats-vs-isochronic-tones-a-guide-to-auditory-brainwave-entrainment/](https://braintap.com/binaural-beats-vs-isochronic-tones-a-guide-to-auditory-brainwave-entrainment/) [https://learningdiscoveries.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Audio-Visual-Entrainment-AVE.pdf](https://learningdiscoveries.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Audio-Visual-Entrainment-AVE.pdf) **Back Links:-** [[Benefits`]] [[Discovery in 1981`]] [[Stronger brainwave effect`]] [[Single tone pulses`]] [[Synchronization of brain activity`]] [[Simple on-off tone`]] [[Flexible frequency`]] [[No headphones needed`]] [[Audibility crucial`]] [[No headphones required`]] [[Cortical evoked response`]] [[Pulsating nature`]] [[Standard sessions`]] [[Effective stimulation`]] [[Discoverer Dr Arturo Manns`]] [[Peer-reviewed studies needed`]] [[Brainwave entrainment`]] [[Specific brainwave frequencies`]] [[Frequency impact on mental state`]] [[Session duration alignment`]] [[` vs Isochronic Tones`]] [[Headphones requirement`]] [[Brain response comparison`]] [[Frequency range limitations`]] [[Research comparison`]] [[Pleasant listening experience`]] [[Monaural beats comparison`]] [[Stereo system capabilities`]] [[Mono vs stereo`]] [[Habituation phenomenon`]] [[Non-associative learning`]] [[Counteracting habituation`]] [[Brain hemisphere functions`]] [[Right brain creativity`]] [[Left brain analytical`]] [[Lateralization of brain functions`]] [[Split hemispheric stimulation`]] [[ADHD treatment`]] [[Performance anxiety`]] [[Hemispheric balance`]] [[Brain cross-wiring`]] [[Amplitude Entrainment`]] [[Thalamus function`]] [[Frequency Following Response (FFR)`]] [[Electrical brain activity`]] [[Brainwave synchronization`]] [[App availability`]] [[Studies on effects`]] [[Chronic pain reduction`]] [[Medication reduction`]] [[Long-term effects`]] [[Improved focus`]] [[Enhanced learning`]] [[Better sleep`]] [[Memory enhancement`]] [[Cognition improvement`]] [[Motivation boost`]] [[No effect on performance`]] [[Educational benefits`]] [[Math skills improvement`]] [[Photic stimulation`]] [[Intermittent photic stimulation (IPS)`]] [[Photic driving response`]] [[Photosensitive epilepsy`]] [[Mental imagery impact`]] [[Placebo effect`]] [[Improved health perception`]] [[Research method`]] [[Nocebo effect`]] [[Negative health outcomes`]] [[Expectation influence`]] [[Brainwave entrainment`]] [[Neurofeedback comparison`]] [[External stimuli use`]] [[Self-regulation method`]] [[Clinical vs home use`]] [[Customization level`]] [[Generalized stimuli`]] [[Personalized neurofeedback`]] [[Professional equipment`]] [[Brain activity patterns`]] [[Meditation application`]] [[Cognitive enhancement`]] [[Neurological conditions`]] [[Home use feasibility`]] [[Research references`]] [[Comparative effectiveness`]] [[Entrainment in meditation`]] [[Auditory brainwave impact`]] [[AVE technology`]] [[Learning enhancement`]] [[Brainwave modulation`]] [[Binaural beats comparison`]] [[AVE benefits`]] [[BrainTap comparison`]] [[Wednesday Wisdom blog`]] [[Meditation`]] **