require scientific and databased answers. Is Hemi-Sync a pill? Are we promoting dependency ona tape and a tape recorder for the rest of one’s life? From solid electroencephalographic data that we have collected in our neuropsychological laboratory, it is quite clear that after a brief period of exposure to Hemi-Sync frequencies, subjects can summon the beneficial effects of this technology at will without the use of any external ‘sources of entrainment. In several studies it was clearly demonstrated that subjects, by merely counting from one to eleven and saying “Access Channel open,” were able to achieve full bilat- eral synchrony (Sadigh 1990, 1991a). Furthermore, unlike EEG biofeedback training, which is limited to training in a specific state of consciousness (i.e., cognitive or somatic relaxation), Hemi-Sync can promote training in a variety of states ranging from active concentration to sleep. To those who have understandably questioned the effectiveness of Hemi-Sync and its potential to be more than an external driver, we offer our data and findings—let them speak for themselves. Theories of Hemi-Sync Based on the findings of several studies presented in the HEMI-SYNC™ JOURNAL (Sadigh 1990, 1991a, 1991b), I wish to propose two theories of Hemi-Sync, namely the State Enhancement Theory (SET), and the Hemispheric Communi- cation Theory (Hemi. Com.). The State Enhancement Theory (SET) One important observation that we made in a number of
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Hemi-Sync® Journal 1992-2 (Spring) · 1 Hemi-Sync® Journal 1992-2 Spring.pdf
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Hemi-Sync studies was that subjects exposed to the same Hemi-Sync signals achieved bilateral synchronization at dif- ferent frequencies. One explanation for this phenomenon is that Hemi-Sync goes beyond “blind” entrainment. That is to say, unlike other brain-entrainment modalities which force the brain to produce certain frequencies, Hemi-Sync actually collaborates with the brain to enhance its naturally dominant state. In summary, according to this theory : Within a relatively defined frequency range, Hemi- Sync guides the brain to enhance and synchronize itself at its own dominant and naturally occurring frequency and state. Should we be able to continue to support this theory with further research, we may conclude that Hemi-Sync is indeed a technology beyond entrainment and, for that matter, one of the safest modalities for health improvement and enhance- ment. The Hemispheric Communication Theory (Hemi. Com.) Based on studies observing the electrocortical activity of patients undergoing psychotherapy, it appears that moments of insight and “clarity” are preceded by moments of bilateral synchrony (Sadigh 1991b). This is an important observation, since in psychotherapy insight denotes an integration of cog- nition (left brain) and affect (right brain). In summary, this theory may be stated as follows: Certain Hemi-Sync frequencies allow various uncon- scious ego-defense mechanisms to be transcended, which will in turn facilitate communication between
the two hemispheres. This therapeutic communica- tion is likely to allow physical and psychological healing to follow. [Also see Sadigh 1991b.] Again, further research is required to support and expand this theory. Should this theory withstand the test of time, it will provide us with a new way of understanding the human mind and how we may promote its healing. Conclusion The purpose of this paper was twofold. First, a number of questions have been raised in the scientific community with regard to the effectiveness and the potentials of Hemi-Sync. I believe it is time for us to address some of these questions by reflecting on empirical data that has already been collected and analyzed. Secondly, two theories of Hemi-Sync were presented in this paper. In my view, based on these theories, it is imprudent to think of Hemi-Sync as a mere entrainment audio technology. It is a phenomenon worthy of thorough scientific research since it may provide us with many answers about the functioning of the human mind. References Hutchison, M. 1986. Megabrain. New York: Beech Tree Books, Morrow. Reik, T. 1948. Listening with the third ear. New York: Farrar, Straus Co. Sadigh, M.R. 1990. Hemi-Sync and brain entrainment: Myth or reality? HEMI-SYNC™ JOURNAL 11: 2-3. Sadigh, M.R. 1991a. Mysteries of Hemi-Sync: Beyond entrain- ment. HEMI-SYNC™ JOURNAL 8: 3-4. Sadigh, M.R. 1991b. Hemi-Sync and insight-oriented psy- chotherapy: A theoretical model. HEMI-SYNC™ JOURNAL 9: 1-2. @