A recent pilot study by Dabiri et al. (2022) explored the potential of binaural beats (BB) to enhance sleep quality and improve post-sleep mood. The study included 20 participants, both male and female, aged 20 to 30 years. Conducted over two weeks, the study comprised a baseline week followed by an experimental week during which participants were exposed to a 90-minute binaural beat session in the delta frequency range each night.
The binaural beat used in this study was a 3-Hz beat on a 174-Hz carrier tone, specifically created for the investigation. Participants listened to a tone of 174 Hz in the left ear and 177 Hz in the right ear. To ensure comfort, the sound level was set between 60 and 75 dB SPL, with most participants choosing the lower end of this range. Given that a typical sleep cycle lasts about 90 minutes, the BB was provided for the same duration. Participants were advised to listen to music before bedtime and adjust the volume to a comfortable level to avoid disturbance.
The results of the study were promising. The intervention enhanced several sleep parameters, including reducing sleep failure and the number of awakenings, increasing the real duration of sleep, and improving overall sleep quality and the feeling upon waking. Additionally, participants reported improved moods, specifically reduced anxiety and anger, although other mood parameters did not show significant changes.
The findings suggest that auditory stimulation with a delta binaural beat is a low-cost and effective alternative to traditional sleep aids and treatments, which often come with side effects. This study highlights the potential of BB technology as a non-invasive method to enhance sleep quality and mood, offering a promising solution for those seeking better sleep and improved well-being.
