Entrainment psychology refers to the synchronization of brainwaves with external stimuli, such as sound or light. But how do people use entrainment psychology in their daily lives?
Therapeutic Applications
Children are highly intuitive and receptive, and “sensitive” children are even more so. But what they typically do with what they receive is wrap it around themselves as identity. Because it’s their way of trying to control their environment while simultaneously accepting what they think are their mirrors.
One common use of entrainment psychology is in therapy. By using techniques like binaural beats or flashing lights, therapists can help individuals reach a state of relaxation or focus. This can be especially beneficial for those struggling with anxiety, insomnia, or attention disorders.
We can do this using goggles that flicker lights at the exact frequencies that we want the brain to be in, or we can use headphones to play sounds (beeps) at just the right frequency. Interpersonal entrainment or moving together in time, has been shown to cultivate pro-social behaviours amongst those who take part. Converging evidence suggests that its pro-social effects may be intertwined with how we classify ourselves and our co-actor in group terms. However, it is not currently clear if a well-established collective identity, such as national identities, influences entrainment’s effects on our actual behaviours, such as cooperation. The current studies tested whether greater cooperation was seen following synchronous versus asynchronous movements when people were moving with somebody of the same vs. a different nationality. As expected, results showed greater cooperation following synchronous vs asynchronous movements amongst people of different socio-cultural backgrounds, but not amongst those with a common socio-cultural background.
Potential explanations for these results are explored, suggesting that entrainment and its social effects may be modulated by our group identities. Rhythm is a core foundation of expressive arts therapy, especially when introduced to help individuals regulate and stabilize (Malchiodi, 2020). One concept that is relevant to supporting “good rhythms” is found in entrainment. Entrainment is also called rhythmic synchronization and is an expressive arts approach that can support self-regulation, co-regulation, and shared regulation.
We wanted to see if we could improve memory by using lights and sounds that teach the brain waves to be in sync. People wore special goggles that made flashes of light and headphones that made beeping noises. The entrainment put the brain in sync at a specific brain wave pattern called theta.
The inherent harmony induced by these experiences, of being in a group in similar rhythm and cadence together, brings greater emotional closeness and rapport. It is a form of co-regulation that reinforces a sense of safety, comfort, and connection (Malchiodi, 2021). Follow the breathing process described above, inhale as deeply as is comfortable, hold briefly, and on the exhale, tone A-E-I-O-U. I often use this practice along with rhythmic walking as a value-added rhythm experience to recalibrate my own internal beat when anxious.
Furthermore, when the brain is presented with a rhythmic input stream, it tends to produce a rhythmic response. Indeed, there is a striking match between the rhythmic structures of many natural, behaviourally-relevant events (speech being a prime example) and those of intrinsic brain oscillations (Schroeder, Lakatos, Kajikawa, Partan, & Puce, 2008; Zion Golumbic et al., 2013). One field of study that has embraced this idea is that of speech processing and language comprehension. The rhythmic patterns of brain activity can be changed through a process known as entrainment. This is like getting a musical band to play together at a faster or slower speed, or like tuning into a specific radio station. Entrainment works by giving the brain inputs, like sounds and lights, at the frequency we want it to be in.
Performance Enhancement
To conclude, a large body of research suggests that oscillations play a fundamental role in perception and cognition, including speech and language processing. As Meyer et al. critically point out, this rhythmicity might to a large extent be endogenously driven, and key to our understanding of brain function. The brain does not passively follow external input, and also does not consist of singular simple oscillators. Rather, it is a complex dynamical system, with one of its emergent properties being oscillatory activity. Understanding these complex dynamics will bring us closer to an understanding of cognitive function, including language comprehension.
Athletes and musicians often use entrainment psychology to improve their performance. By synchronizing their brainwaves with specific frequencies, they can enhance their concentration, coordination, and overall skill level. This can give them a competitive edge in their respective fields.
Meditation and Mindfulness
Many people also use entrainment psychology as a tool for meditation and mindfulness practices. By listening to guided audio tracks or watching visualizations, individuals can deepen their meditation experience and achieve a greater sense of peace and clarity.
Personal Development
Individuals seeking personal growth and self-improvement may also turn to entrainment psychology. By using techniques like hypnosis or neurofeedback, they can reprogram their subconscious mind and overcome limiting beliefs or behaviors. This can lead to profound changes in their lives.
Conclusion
Overall, the use of entrainment psychology is diverse and widespread. From therapy and performance enhancement to meditation and personal development, people are finding creative ways to harness the power of brainwave synchronization for their benefit. As research in this field continues to grow, we can expect even more innovative applications to emerge in the future.
