BiZZeeBuZZ

This writer currently believes that meditation is the best practice and tool for relaxation but we have had many requests for relaxation therapy tools. I also found this interesting article….as with anything please do YOUR research to see if any of these products are going to benefit you personally!!

By:Troy Centazzo

I thought at the time meditation would never work for me. It just sounded so intriguing, though. This exercise has been practiced for over 5,000 years and every religion incorporates some version of it, so there must be something to it, I thought. One version involved simply getting comfortable, closing one’s eyes, and repeating a simple word over and over, apparently offering practitioners the joys of complete relaxation and a sense of calm. Those monks in Tibet looked pretty relaxed and the Dalai Lama always seemed to be smiling, despite living in exile for almost 40 years at that time.

I had never felt calm in my life. Always an anxious kid who couldn’t sit still in class and felt claustrophobic if I sat down for more than five minutes, the allure of a sense of calm had intrigued me since high school. In my mid-twenties, I knew anxiety and stress had already begun to take its toll over the years. Migraines. Back pain. Hives. Ulcers at 19 years old. Acid reflux. Asthma attacks. Chewing the blanket on my bed during sleep until it was shredded (no, I’m not kidding). But meditation just wouldn’t cut it. Not that I didn’t try over and over again. My mind just wouldn’t let me sit still for more than a few minutes, never mind keep intruding thoughts out of my head. I had read that reducing stress was important to health, however, so I kept looking for an answer.

Then came the Internet seeping into the relative mainstream in the early to mid-90′s. Web browsers like Netscape allowed casual users to search for topics and “surf” around and look at web pages. Back then, the Net seemed to be mostly about email, porn sites, early users of AOL, first generation attempts at corporate advertising, and a lot of, let’s say, “niche” communities, often selling their wares on rudimentary websites. One of those communities was the New Age crowd. The New Age Movement, an early embracer of the Internet, is “a social collective phenomenon and a spiritual nature movement that seeks universal truth through the Oneness of Humanity. It combines aspects of spirituality, cosmology, esotericism, complementary and alternative medicine, various religious practices, and environmentalism.” (1) They seemed to discuss energy, collective consciousness, and inter-connectedness on their websites a lot, I noticed.

While I was surfing around the Internet looking for a solution to my relaxation dilemma, I came across something called a light-sound machine The product’s website, which clearly had New Age written all over it (celestial pictures of stars and planets, people wearing space-age glasses, and products with flashing lights and lots of buttons) advertised a product that promised to leapfrog the years of practice demanded by meditation and quickly place the user into a completely relaxed – or “altered” – state, wherein someone actually feels like they are floating outside of their own body. The website talked about the concepts of brainwave entrainment, audio-visual stimulation (AVS), Ganzfield, soundscapes, and binaural beats.

Weird, right?

I couldn’t resist. Within a few minutes I made my first Internet purchase in 1996: a relaxation light-sound machine.

Of course I couldn’t wait more than ten minutes to use it when it arrived. The box included a metal unit that looked like a cassette player from the 1970′s, headphones and eye shades with LED lights on the inside of them. I read the brief instructions, set my desired program on the unit (a “theta-alpha relaxed state” program for 30 minutes, whatever that meant), put the headphones and eyeglasses on, and pushed the start button. I could hear a faint beat in the headphones and, with closed eyes, saw flashing lights through my eye lids. I tried to breathe deeply from my abdomen (per the instructions) and counted 1-2-3-4, and so on. Within about 15 minutes I was more relaxed than I had ever been in my life. I couldn’t really tell if I was awake or asleep and dreaming.

Too good to be true?

Let’s Back Up: How We Can Measure Activity in Our Brains – Without All (Ok, Most of) the Science Speak

Most adults who have undergone typical physical exams at the doctor’s office are familiar with an EKG (or ECG) test. An EKG test, during which the doctor places several electrodes on our bodies, measures the electrical activity of the heart, can detect abnormal rhythms of or damage to the heart muscle. Accepting that measuring electrical activity of the heart can measure conditions of the heart is mainstream healthcare; the EKG test is central to cardiology.

Our brains produce electrical activity that can be measured as well, though most people have not undergone the test to measure brain activity, known as an EEG (with the exception of epileptic, seizure or brain injury patients). Like an EKG, electrodes are used, placed on the scalp with a conductive substance (like a gel) to measure electrical activity resulting from currents reflecting activity in our brains (I have not included a discussion here about the standard locations to measure various activity levels).

This activity can be shown graphically as waves at a certain “speed,” known as frequency.(2) As you might guess, the less activity in our brains (such as when we’re drowsy), the slower the waves generated; the more activity, (such as when we’re anxious), the faster the waves. Our brains are working with more intensity, creating more electrical activity, and we can measure that with an EEG. The EEG test, in fact, was first used on humans back in 1920. The list below demonstrates the perceived emotional state that is related to a particular frequency and the name of associated wave pattern.

Brain Activity States That Can be Shown as Waves on a Computer Screen Measured by an EEG

Wave Type—-Frequency (Hz)—–Emotional State

Delta—–up to 3—–Slow wave sleep, babies’ normal state

Theta—–4 – 7——Dreams, mental imagery, deep meditative states, deep relaxation

Alpha——8 – 12—–Relaxed awareness, meditative states (while awake)

Beta—-12 – 30—–Active or busy thinking, anxiety, tense

Gamma—-Above 30——Hyper-alert, higher mental activity

Here’s Where it Gets Even More Interesting.

We can actually move the activity of our brains – and therefore change our emotional states – towards a certain frequency (say, a lower, more relaxed one) to match that of an outside stimulus, such as a repetitive sound or a visual cue like a flashing light at a certain frequency (again, similar to speed for purposes of this article).

There is one related auditory phenomenon with which all of us are familiar: music. Daniel J. Levitan in his recent fascinating book, “This is Your Brain on Music,” discusses how music and its numerous technical components – whether the compositions are by the Beatles, Mozart, Metallica, Aretha Franklin or Stevie Wonder, among many others – significantly impact the complex regions of our brain. (3) We all can relate to hearing a certain song from our past and – suddenly – certain emotions come up. If one enjoys rock music, a listener can feel “pumped up” and energized by the music’s loud, hard charging beats. As music and healing expert Steven Halpern explained to me, humans have been using sounds and beats for 25,000 years to alter states of consciousness.

Some Relaxation Tools Enable Us to Actual Target a Certain State of Emotion

Through several audio and visual tools, we can actually coax our brains into a certain emotional state, such as relaxation. As discussed, we accomplish this by using repetitive sounds and visual stimuli that are set at a certain frequency, such as at a “theta” speed. The first way to simply accomplish this is through a concept known as “binaural beats,” a complicated auditory phenomenon that takes place in our brains. Binaural beats occur when someone wears headphones and tones at slightly different frequencies are played in each ear. Our brains, however, will mix the two different beats into one. If the binaural beat is set to a certain frequency, our brainwaves will synchronize with those sounds (the technical term is “brainwave entrainment,” a term that initially made me think of science fiction and Stanley Kubrick’s haunting movie, “A Clockwork Orange”). However, binaural beat recordings, which can include sounds of nature over them, have been shown to bring about states of relaxation. (4) Using this type of product is as easy as buying a CD and listening to it with high quality headphones.

By adding strobe lights to binaural beats, we create the light-sound machine that I initially mentioned was my entrée into the world of relaxation tools. This represents the second of the relaxation tools I review in this article. These products, sometimes called “mind machines,” use audio-visual stimulation (AVS) to bring about various states, such as relaxation, attention and sleep. They include goggles which the user wears with his or her eyes closed; the effect is the same through the eyelids and would actully be extremely uncomfortable if one’s eyes were kept open. AVS devices allow the user to select various programs focused on states of emotion or mood. Research has been conducted on light-sound machines and their positive impact on children with learning disabilities, impulsive behaviors, and anxiety. (5) It should be noted that flashing lights may not be appropriate for everyone. In fact, people with photosensitive epilepsy and other nervous disorders may experience seizures when using such as device (one source notes that one in 10,000 people using such a device may experience a seizure using the device.)

A third tool to bring about a state of relaxation is not much different than the sound-based tools discussed above, but I would like to profile a prominent cancer specialist in Manhattan who uses relaxation tools (along with advice on nutrition, supplements and other wellness modalities) together with mainstream treatment with his cancer patients. Mitchell Gaynor, M.D., a cancer specialist and Clinical Professor of Medicine at the Weill-Medical College of Cornell University, has used an “integrative” approach to cancer for 15 years. He discusses this approach in his 2003 book, “The Healing Power of Sound: Recovery from Life-Threatening Illness Using Sound, Voice, and Music.”

Gaynor’s relaxation tool of choice? The metal (or crystal) singing bowl, which has aided Buddhist meditation, prayer and chanting for potentially thousands of years. By circling a bowl with a playing mallet, the bowl creates a rich blend of harmonic resonances and overtones. Along with simple meditative exercises, the long, droning sounds produced by the bowls can help bring about or intensify the meditative state discussed above. According to written reports, similar brain synchronization occurs when listening to the audio patterns of the bowls.

Gaynor discusses the stress reduction and Relaxation properties of the singing bowls, but in one article noted that “meditation with the bowls takes us outside of our own fears. And the patient at peace with himself puts up the best fight against cancer.”(6) Due to the popularity of such approaches with patients, as well increasing scientific research demonstrating the health benefits of stress management approaches, many cancer programs have incorporated the techniques and tools that Dr. Gaynor has been using for over 15 years.

A Few Relaxation Product Recommendations

In this section, I’d like to recommend a few products for you to consider. For each of the three examples, I offer a “high-end” and “bargain” product option and information on where to purchase them. I have personally used these products and, in some cases, have met or interviewed the providers. I am not receiving any commissions on sales of products due to this article; I simply have benefited from and enjoyed using them. Also, they are not the only products available in these categories. The Internet allows us to conduct product research and comparison shopping like never before. Disclaimer: all of these products (and any meditative experience) can create powerful emotions, evoke long-forgotten memories, and generally be jarring to someone experiencing such a profound experience for the first time. I suggest you work with a health professional who understands such products and conduct extensive research on any of the products you’re considering purchasing!!!!!!

Robert Monroe started conducting research on sound’s impact on states of consciousness back in the 1950′s, during a successful career in the radio broadcasting business. Monroe Products produces Hemi-Sync(R) audio products and its predecessor companies have been doing so since the early 1960′s. Monroe also started a non-profit Institute in 1985, which provides numerous on and off-site educational programs. Product Recommendation. Introductory CD package from Monroe Products: “A Gateway Experience: Wave I – Discovery” This product covers a variety of topics. Price: $99.

Bargain Option: Head to iTunes and purchase a single track for $0.99 from White Noise Meditation’s “Waterfall Entrainment” album. Take a look at the brain wave chart above a pick a track that sounds right for you based on the state of relaxation you wish to achieve. You can also purchase the whole album for under $8.00.

Light-Sound Machine (AVS) Relaxation Products

David Siever of Mind Alive has been developing AVS products since 1984. Based in Alberta, Canada, Dave and his team hold many professional training and learning programs on AVS technology. He also has conducted extensive, published research on the effectiveness of AVS to treat a variety of conditions, such as ADD/ADHD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, pain and others. I consider Dave Siever to be the person who has made the most extensive, research-based effort to bring light-sound technology into mainstream healthcare. Product Recommendation. The DAVID PALTM, an easy to use and small but comprehensive AVS device. Price: $260 plus shipping.

Bargain Option: MindPlace’s Sirius Light and Sound Machine. MindPlace has been in the AVS business for almost 20 years. Small and compact, this product is a great and economical way to start your AVS relaxation program. Price: About $99 plus shipping. Check around the Internet for the best price.

My recommendation is that you research to check if you can attend a group session in your area. Some yoga studios, for example, hold singing bowl groups. (Drumming circles are another option, as they involve repetitive beats and focused attention.) You’ll have a lot of fun at either event. You can pick up a singing bowl from literally hundreds of providers on the Internet. Prices range from less than $50 to more than hundreds of dollars to well over $1,000, depending on the materials used or whether it’s an antique from Tibet.

Proteus Light & Sound Relaxation Mind Machine System Mindplace
publisher: MindPlace
ASIN: B00061URFG
EAN: 6123568523652
sales rank: 13218
price: $169.00 (new)

Proteus uses Flash memory for both session and operating system data. This means that you can download not only new session groups but that the operating system can be upgraded. Wavetable audio. PROTEUS includes stereo audio digital to analog converters, enabling production of binaural beats and other waveforms. Enhanced AudioStrobetm. We’ve fine-tuned our AudioStrobe decoder circuitry, providing a much crisper, more intense experience. 199 program capacity. Proteus ships with enhanced versions of the original Sirius sessions, together with a “best-of” assortment of programs from our other systems. * Single or dual binaural beats. * Create and download your own audio wavetables. * Synchronize the two color channels or run them at completely different frequencies. * Control the lights and sound in real time using our ThoughtStream biofeedback system. Create “random” programs within constraints you choose (for example, frequencies constrained to 9-12 hz and segment lengths of 1 to 3 seconds). Frequencies range from 0.2 to 50.0 hz-best in the industry. Your PROTEUS package includes: Attractive, compact Proteus Control Console New! Enhanced ruby/emerald Ganzframes. We use super-compact surface mount LEDs, which provide significantly better light coverage than the old “bulb-style” LightFrames. Stereo headphones and audio patchcord Concise Manual Audiostrobe sampler CD Proteus Editor software and user manual (via download) Note: System requires 3 x AA alkaline batteries, not included. 110 volt (USA) and 220 volt (Europe) AC power adapters, Ruby/Sapphire and PureWhiteTM LiteFrames

Photosonix Nova Pro Light & Sound Machine Sensory with Colortrack Glasses
publisher: Photosonix
ASIN: B0007PH81M
EAN: 0004290200089
sales rank: 100232
price: $459.00 (new)

With more AVS stimulation sessions, more storage and more new features, the Nova Pro 100 is the latest in what Light & Sound RelaxationTechnology can offer. 100 relaxation, meditation, sleep, learning, energizing, visualization, entertainment and specialty performance sessions and… room for 100 more. Redefining the high end of Light & Sound technology, at an affordable price. Our top of the line, professional quality machine has 100 easy to use relaxation, meditation, sleep, learning, energizing, visualization, entertainment and specialty sessions. And room for downloading up to 100 more sessions. Sessions organized in categories for easier selection. Convenient thumbwheel adjustment of volume and intensity. AudioStrobe* compatible, microphone input with volume control and much more. Nova Pro 100 features: 100 Built-in sessions: Including the 50 Nova Pro sessions, the 10 quick mood change sessions from the Muse# and 40 new sessions. How it works: Sessions are organized in 8 categories: relaxation, meditate, sleep, learn, energize, visualize, entertain and special. Sessions are selected by selecting a category then a session within the category (so you don’t have to wade through 100 sessions every time). In any category, the selection process proceeds through the built-in sessions, then through any downloaded sessions in that category. Download capability: room for 100 downloaded sessions (or a total of 1000 session segments). How it works: Downloaded sessions are given a category at download time, a single download can be 1 to 25 sessions in any one category. The downloaded session index is automatically reorganized to keep the sessions sorted in the intended categories, no matter what the order of download.

Sirius Value Light and Sound Mind Machine with Bonus Ganzframes
publisher: Mindplace
ASIN: B0006ZNQNM
EAN: 0895555002049
sales rank: 39210
price: $129.00 (new)

Our Sirius is the best value for the money of any Light and Sound system on the market. It includes a number of features normally found in machines costing two or more times as much. Easy to use with 21 programs installed the Sirius Light and Sound Mind Machine for relaxation converts rhythmic sounds (the “beat”) from your cassette/CD/MP3 player into pulses of light.

Little Sleep Machine
by: The Relaxation Company
publisher: Relaxation Company, published: 2007-08-21
ASIN: 1559618493
EAN: 9781559618496
sales rank: 2006528
price: $44.97 (new), $40.59 (used)

This tiny portable digital player is the perfect tool for getting a good night’s sleep. No downloading necessary, this device contains 3 hours of soothing music combined with Delta brainwave frequencies developed by sound healing pioneer Dr. Jeffrey Thompson. Perfect for travel or home, this simple player comes with a single replaceable AAA battery and a set of convenient ear bud headphones. The audio technology contained on the Little Sleep Machine has been clinically proven to help listeners fall asleep, stay asleep, and wake up rejuvenated. The perfect portable sleep device for the 75 million Americans who have difficulty sleeping.

In the deepest state of sleep your brainwave patterns change to slow frequency ?delta? waves. Dr. Jeffrey Thompson has developed unique ways to embed these delta pulses into carefully crafted musical soundtracks. After a few minutes of listening your own brainwaves naturally ?lock’ onto the delta pulses and lead you easily into deep, restful sleep.

Relaxation Program 1) Peaceful Music for Sleep

Meditative melodies, flutes, piano, guitar, and strings, embedded with Delta Wave Pulses irresistibly lull you to sleep.

Relaxation Program 2) Natural Music for Sleep

Floating melodies, ocean surf, and gentle forest sounds, embedded with Delta Wave Pulses transport you into thoroughly rejuvenating sleep.

Relaxation Program 3) Ocean Waves

Soothing ocean waves embedded with Alpha Brainwave Pulses surround you with irresistible peace and tranquility.

Dr. Jeffrey Thompson’s clinical research with thousands of patients has led to groundbreaking discoveries in how sound frequency patterns built into musical soundtracks can alter states of consciousness and induce mind-body healing. His audio programs are used by Fortune 500 companies, health care professionals, and individuals worldwide.

Mindfold Sleep and Relaxation Eye Mask
publisher: MindFold
ASIN: B000X2DODU
EAN: 0028485010130
sales rank: 18410
price: $12.00 (new)

Mindfold Relaxation Mask is a flexible black plastic face plate backed with a high-density soft foam padding. The foam padding has cut-outs that allow you to experience total darkness even with your eyes open.

Homedics WFL-SLVS Envirascape Silver Springs Illuminated Relaxation Fountain with Natural Stones
publisher: HoMedics
ASIN: B000QTUJXS
EAN: 0031262028181
sales rank: 1319
price: $15.99 (new), $16.90 (used)

This illuminated relaxation fountain modern design brings a serene warmth to any home and helps you relax by creating stress free ambience. The sophisticated finish softly illuminates for a more romantic effect. Multiple water streams create a gentle presence with the soothing sounds of water. Water flow replicates the sights and sound of a tranquil spring.

Satie for relaxation
publisher: RCA
ASIN: B00004L8HP
EAN: 0743216615322
sales rank: 74315
price: $4.32 (new), $1.61 (used)

The perfect relaxation tool

Conair SU7 Sound Therapy and Relaxation Clock Radio
publisher: Conair
ASIN: B000OCK9S2
EAN: 0074108076168
sales rank: 1013
price: $18.49 (new)

Plays 10 soothing sounds designed especially for infants to lull your little one to sleep. Sounds include summer night, white noise, thunderstorm, running stream, ocean waves, songbird, rainfall, tropical forest, waterfall and heartbeat. All will help you rest and relax!

Sound Oasis Natural Sounds Therapy System and Alarm Clock With FREE Spa Retreat Sound Card
publisher: Sound Oasis
ASIN: B001O04KA6
EAN: 0845055030363
sales rank: 5689
price: $79.95 (new)

Sound Oasis is a unique sound and tinnitus therapy product that allows users to create their very own sound environment conducive to relaxation, sleep and improvement of everyday life. By bathing a room with authentic sounds of nature, Sound Oasis blocks out irritating noises, helps circumvent tinnitus discomfort and creates a peaceful atmosphere. Users fall asleep easier, get higher quality sleep, enhance concentration, and feel more alert and comfortable throughout the day! Sound Oasis is the world leader in sound therapy systems. They are dedicated to making your life healthier and more enjoyable with creative sound solutions that combine superior quality with the very latest technology. INCLUDES SOUND CARD: – Ocean Surf – Woodlands – Alpha Clouds – Rain – Thunderstorm – Sleep Surf – Stream – Energy Chimes – Delta Voyage – White Noise – Tranquility – Dream Echoes SPA RETREAT SOUND CARD (INCLUDED) – Hawaiian Surf – Gentle Rain – Waterfall – Island Stream – Asian Garden – Summer Night – Refl ection – Serenity – Unwind – Easy Days – Late Night – Stillness FEATURES: – 12 amazingly soothing sounds: 6 authentic nature sounds + 6 clinically proven therapy sounds from world renowned doctors. – World?’ TMs finest sound quality – state-of-the-art digital sound reproduction, extra long tracks – Change sound theme with patent pending sound card system. 3 titles available: Spa Retreat, Nature Journey & Ear Therapy. – Alarm clock (backlit) – wake to sound or buzzer. – Sleep Enhancement technology helps lull users to sleep by deep relaxation -4 position timer – 30, 60, 90 min. + continuous with gentle off. – Pause/resume automatically replays same sound session – Headphone/sleep pillow jack. – AC adapter (included) or battery (not included) powered.

HoMedics SS-2000 Sound Spa Relaxation Sound Machine with 6 Nature Sounds, Silver
publisher: HoMedics
ASIN: B000F3QG0U
EAN: 0031262012678
sales rank: 2267
price: $28.92 (new)

Turn any room in your house into a relaxation spa with the sound machine. Bring clarity of mind throuth the 6 nature sounds, ocean, summer night, rain, rain forest, waterfall and heartbeat–which is great for a baby’s room. Great for travel using batteries or take along the home adaptor.

Art of Appreciation Gift Baskets Peace and Relaxation Eucalyptus Spa Bath and Body Gift Set
publisher: Art of Appreciation Gift Baskets, published: 2012-03-02
ASIN: B0006DOO1M
EAN: 0736211594648
sales rank: 4714
price: $39.99 (new)

Renew… Recharge… and Rejuvenate with the aromatherapeutic powers of Eucalyptus. Our superbly equipped spa set soothes the body and soul, starting with a Cleansing Eucalyptus Bath Gel, Moisturizing Body Lotion, Exfoliating Body Scrub, and Fragrant Eucalyptus Bath Crystals. We then add a Sisal Bath Sponge, Cotton Spa Slippers, and a Nylon Mesh Pouf. Indulge your gift recipient’s sense of good taste with Chocolate Dipped Truffle Cookies, refreshing Petals All Natural Iced Tea and Almond Roca Candy. Your gift is carefully hand crafted in a tin spa caddy and includes a personalized gift message from you to convey your heartfelt best wishes.

An original gift basket arrangement designed just for you by Art of Appreciation Gift Baskets. ™

When will my gift ship? When will my gift be delivered? Please review the “Shipping Rates and Policies” link provided below for important information regarding the shipping and delivery time for your gift purchase.

Real-Ease Neck and Shoulder Relaxer
publisher: Real-Ease
ASIN: B000BMI4SW
EAN: 0725479105000
sales rank: 2472
price: $27.40 (new), $45.00 (used)

Doctor riter’s real-ease neck support helps release neck and shoulder tension in just 10 15 minutes a day.unique, cervical shaped support perfectly cradles your neck at the base of your skull to help release muscle tension in the neck, shoulders and jaw.

Set of Two Ancient Oriental Massage Tools
publisher: Body Back Company
ASIN: B000NEJRR0
EAN: 0251035964304
sales rank: 26669
price: $17.95 (new)

Tappers provide an invigorating percussion-like massage called tapotement which improves circulation, eases muscle tension, and even reduces the appearance of cellulite. Tappers are kind of like meat tenderizers. Use one, or two simultaneously. By tapping contracted and knotty muscles you can release tightness and relieve pain. Take Bongers anywhere for quick relief of back pain, headaches and tired, sore muscles. Fun and easy to use on yourself and your friends.

New Thumper Sport Percussive Massager with Free Educational DVD
publisher: Thumper
ASIN: B001GAQSIQ
EAN: 0639625210503
sales rank: 3787
price: $129.00 (new)

Thumper Sport Percussive Massager soothes tense, stiff muscles with a deep tissue massage The Thumper Sport is a high quality massager designed to release muscle tension and stiffness, while offering the benefits of deep tissue massage. The result a more relaxed body, improved muscle tone and better overall function of organs and glands. Treat yourself to a massage to relax muscles after exercise or improve circulation.Deep relaxation benefits the muscles as much as the mind!

Oster Professional 103 Stim-U-Lax Massager
publisher: Oster
ASIN: B00107I9XM
EAN: 0034264003927
sales rank: 2508
price: $68.99 (new)

This lightweight therapeutic massager combines the advantages of hand and mechanical massage. Its special contoured design reduces hand fatigue and its universal motor is constructed for heavy-duty use. Provides soothing, relaxation movement through your finger tips. Great for general body as well as scalp use.

For other relaxation idea’s and products CLICK HERE!!