Brainmachine…

Most of them work on the principle of dissonance: create a tonal tension between left and right brain, and then rely on the mind to correct that yin-yang tension by going to middle/neutral point in the point where left and right brain meet and communicate.

Some people seemed to be helped by using this as kick starter, they haven’t found any way to resolve their yin-yang tension using qigong or meditation.

Others react to having their left and right brains programmed with patterns that create a new level of yin-yang tension they didn’t have before.

And not all brain programs are created equal….

m

I have some experience with these devices that use sound and light to induce various states of consciousness. Some of the earlier models were quite expensive and in recent years the price has dropped considerably. Research surged initially and then fell off until recently they have been looking into the devices as treatment for ADHD. The science of sound and consciousness (Nada Yoga) is an old art and some of the newer devices allow for the combination of very specific tones in rhythmic patterns that almost make electronic Nada Yoga possible. I have worked with some researchers,though this is a rather new area. If you wanted to experiment, I would recommend to do it lightly. A program that is relatively inexpensive and has impressive flexibility is Brainwave Generator ($40) available at the website : http://www.bwgen.com. It runs on PC (turn off any surround sound programs.)

You can specifically dial in the tones and induction patterns (be it sweeps, binaurals, or other pulses.) It has a little learning curve, but can produce good results. It has the ability to generate stimuli for lightstrobe equipped machines that will drive light goggles. There is a schematic on the website for making your own if you are so inclined. The goggles add a nice effect, and if you choose the right beat frequencies can begin to create sacred geometric shapes with their flashing. If you are experimenting with the tones, I suggest using sacred ratios between the frequencies and using a good frequency chart to derive the base frequencies. Phi intervals can be very interesting. It would be interesting to see what Micheal might offer about intervals from the Daoist tradition. I have used this program in conjunction with Adobe Audition (which also has a good tone generator) to mix in background music to keep the beat patterns palatable.

As for whether it can replace Chi Kung, I feel that it can help induce states in individuals or guide them into areas of awareness/consciousness that they may difficult inhabiting on their own. Over time this may ‘stretch’ their brains into becoming more comfortable with ihabiting the gaps in their spectrum of consciousness, however they will need to develop the ability to be there by their own initiative. Doing so requires a deeper level of integration and a holistic approach. I have seen this method used for treating trauma recovery, or helping to integrate fragmented ‘altars’ in those with dissociative disorders. Very interesting. It’s a parallel model to think of using the device to create a continuous spectrum of consciousness that is integrated; Akin to harmonizing the fragmented organ spirits/elements or the continuum of heaven and earth. Eventually they will need to do this through their own practice and realize the base/center that lies beyond the apparent play of dualties. I do believe that the brain machines can be a valuable tool in the right hands. It is just a tool though. On the bwgen site, you’ll find a discussion group. Some are WAY out there, but there are some grounded folks that can give you good advice. In the wrong hands it can be dangerous, it can also be a distraction just like drugs. You can find presets on their site that simulate all of the hemisync ‘levels’ for whatever that is worth. I hope this helps.

Sincerely,

Pema