Waking state: attention directed to surroundings. Includes agitated, restless/”monkey mind” states which are especially amenable to treatment with light and sound stimulation.

Alpha state: Relaxed, tranquil, daydreaming, “inward awareness” state. Light meditation here.

Hypnagogic or “twilight” state: Borderline sleep; deep meditation state; hypnotic state; access to the unconscious mind and enhanced retrieval of memories; creativity, accelerated or “super-learning”, inspiration. Associated with increased theta brainwave activity.

Trance state: Deep, dreamless sleep; deep rest. Often associated with increased delta brainwave activity.

Light and sound is an effective tool for anyone who wishes to explore altered states of consciousness, awareness expansion and sensory stimulation, psychedelic-like visual imagery, and those seeking an entertaining path to relaxation.

With special light-bearing sunglasses over your closed eyes and headphones over your ears, you are immersed in colorful dancing geometric patterns and entrancing sounds. The light and sound pulse rate shifts from state to state as the session progresses; mental activity will follow the pulse rate of the machine.

The following are some of the areas being explored by users of these machines: psychological stress relief, deep relaxation, assistance in falling asleep, memory improvement, increased learning, stabilizing emotions, increased intellectual focus, lucid dreaming, sensory stimulation, and increased physical energy.

While some of these benefits have been substantiated by research studies, these machines are experimental and results will vary from person to person.

Binaural beats occur when two sine (pure) waves of slightly differing frequency are presented to the left and right sound channels: the difference between the left and right is synthesized by the brain and perceived as a slowly modulated frequency.

This is known as a binaural beat frequency. This beat frequency is typically modulated at the same frequency as the lights.

We suggest that the MindsEye or Galaxy be used at least three times per week. It can be used on a daily basis. It provides completely natural forms of stimulation. Multiple sessions per day can cause increased drowsiness in some users. However, there is no danger of overuse.

No. Anyone can deliberately resist the soothing effects of pulsed light and sound if they choose to do so. Individuals with excessive “mind chatter” and those with especially rigid mental processes may initially find a light and sound machine less effective. Using the system for only a few minutes will also generally prove ineffective.

Yes. Individuals with the very rare condition known as photosensitive epilepsy should not be exposed to flickering light except under medical supervision. Likewise, we suggest that individuals who are uncomfortable with bright light, those with heart conditions, or those who feel at all uncomfortable with the light/sound experience, should consult their physician prior to regular use, as should users who have ever experienced seizures of any sort.

Which sound you use is mostly a matter of preference. Pitch often corresponds to the type of session you are using. Higher pitches tend to be more energizing, while lower pitches tends to be more relaxing. Binaural has proven to be an effective type of sound effect for altering consciousness.

In actuality, brainwaves vary over a wide continuum. The four states generally referred to are artificial categories, created by EEG researchers to describe states of mind that are typically associated with certain patterns.

Sessions don’t remain in only one of those brainwave patterns; they usually work by taking you through several different frequencies at different times during a single session.

For example, a session that is predominately in theta may, at times, move up to alpha. This effect would be different than another session predominately in theta, but which dips down into delta. It is this rich tapestry of “changes” within each session that make each one unique, and allow them to produce different results.

A user’s intent also affects the type of result a session might produce. For example, one person might use a theta type session for visualization and be actively engaged in the process. Another person, using that same session for sleep, would take a much more passive role, thus achieving an entirely different result.

On one hand, if you fall asleep during a session, it may mean that the session is effective in giving you what you need at that time—sleep. On the other hand, if you fall asleep every time you use your light and sound machine you can try several things: use a more energizing program, try sitting up if you’ve been lying down, turn the brightness of the LiteFrames or the volume up, or try doing a session at a different time of the day.

You should always keep the volume of the headphones within a safe range. Like any audio device, excessive volume over a period of time could damage your hearing. Use a volume that feels comfortable.

There is no danger to running the LiteFrames at maximum brightness, however. Brighter lights can improve a session’s effectiveness, but don’t make them bright for this reason alone if it feels uncomfortable. Volume and brightness should always be set to the level that feels most comfortable to you.

Yes. If you are using the MindsEye as an adjunct to meditation or visualization, you may find the lights too distracting. The binaural option is very effective in this instance. TIP: Try listening to the binaural for more focus while studying.

If you’re gone for more than a few minutes, it’s more effective to start over.

It’s best to “let go” and let the light and sound take you. If your mind is very active and keeps drifting away from the light/sound session, gently bring your attention back when you notice, but don’t strain to stay concentrated.

Once children reach beyond the fifth year of development they can benefit greatly from light and sound, especially when used with visualized images. The need for self control, calmness, and self esteem is ever present in children, and the need continues to grow as they mature.

The leading researcher in the use of light and sound devices in early childhood development, Dr. Rayma Ditson-Sommer, has found improved concentration, accelerated learning, and a better attitude toward school and other stress situations in children who used the programs daily.

This won’t harm your eyes, but a light and sound machine is designed to be used with your eyes closed.