medical disclaimer
The Synaptic Stimulus Trainer (SST) is a light/sound device that uses the latest technology to provide stimuli through the use of headphones and specially designed glasses inset with white, full spectrum, light-emitting diodes (LEDs). These lights flash at predetermined frequencies and are coupled with binaural tones that are heard through the headphones. The programs included with the SST have been used in many clinical settings, and have been designed to address the symptoms of various disorders including stress, anxiety, depression, and learning disabilities (LD).
Auditory and visual stimulation (AVS) is a method of brain stimulation and brainwave "entrainment" or training that has evolved from the study of biofeedback (a training procedure that can enable a person to alter bioelectrical and physiological responses) and brainwave activity as measured by electroencephalography (EEG).
Your SST provides stimuli to the brain through the ears and eyes by means of binaural tones heard through the headphones and the specially designed glasses inset with white light-emitting diodes (LED’s). The auditory and visual stimulation provided by the programs in your SST are typically synchronized with each other. The light emitting from the glasses, as well as the rate in which they flicker, affects the brain through the optic nerve and cause the brainwaves to "entrain" or match to the frequency of the various programs provided, depending on the preferred outcome. The method by which this "entrainment" occurs is known as Frequency Following Response (FFR).
Unlike EEG biofeedback where the object is for the user to deliberately try to calm or train brainwave activity, AVS induced "entrainment" occurs directly to the brain without any conscious effort. The Frequency Following Response is also known as the "flicker phenomenon" because of the brain's ability to synchronize with the same rhythm as the external flashing light (Pribram, 1971; Timmermann, Lubar, Ramsey, & Frederick, 1998; Townsend, Lubin & Naitoh, 1975). Some findings demonstrate that not only does the area in the brain associated with sight become synchronized with the external flickering lights, but the entire cortex of the brain demonstrates changes toward the same frequency of the flashing lights (Kumano, et al., 1997; Timmermann, Lubar, Ramsey, & Frederick, 1998).
There are four primary brainwave states; Beta, Alpha, Theta, and Delta.
Beta brainwave frequencies or brain states are measured approximately between 13 and 40 hertz (Hz.) or cycles per second. This state represents our "waking" state of excitement or high alertness. This state, when predominant, results in external attention, but when paired with a stressful psychological stimulus, can also result in feelings of anxiety.
Alpha frequencies are measured at approximately 8 to 12 Hz., and represent a relaxed state which is associated with external attention.
The Theta state is measured from approximately 4 to 8 Hz., and represent a deeply relaxed state of inward focus.
Delta is known as the "sleep" state, and is measured at 0.5 to approximately 3 Hz.
Researchers have found that induction into higher brainwave states can increase brain activity, while the induction of lower brainwave states can reduce anxiety and hyperactivity (Carter & Russell, 1993; Othmer & Othmer, 1992). Brainwave entrainment within alpha states, for example, may allow for relaxation and a decreased stress response to occur by providing a slower and more relaxed brainwave state. A faster brainwave state produced by faster flickering of the LED lights, can induce a higher brainwave state, and is theorized to provide enhanced brain stimulation resulting in increased cognitive abilities. A recent study found that higher frequencies may decrease symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity, and theorize that this phenomenon may be similar to the paradoxical application of neurostimulant medication used by individuals to address hyperactivity (Olmstead, 1997).
Download the SST Manual (PDF)
For even more information, see our Recommended Reading list.
