Binaural Beats

Binaural beats are an auditory illusion created when two slightly different frequencies are played separately to each ear, the brain perceives a rhythmic beat at the difference frequency, theoretically entraining brainwave activity. The evidence is preliminary: small studies suggest alpha-frequency binaural beats (8-14 Hz) may help reduce anxiety and improve focus in some individuals, but study quality is generally low and effect sizes modest. There are no large, well-controlled trials, and mechanisms remain debated. They may suit people seeking low-effort, low-risk relaxation or focus tools, particularly those who already find ambient sound helpful for concentration. Not suitable for those with epilepsy or seizure disorders; requires headphones for the stereo separation effect to work. PGSS take: Harmless and free if you already own headphones, but treat the relaxation benefits as the real mechanism rather than brainwave entrainment.