Why It Works:
The Science of Neurotechnology

How does brainwave entrainment support mental well-being? Explore the research behind BrainTap, PEMF, and nervous system regulation.

  • Brain entrainment is a scientifically validated method that uses rhythmic stimuli to influence brainwave activity, promoting cognitive function, stress reduction, and nervous system balance (Thut et al., 2011). BrainTap incorporates three key elements of brainwave entrainment:

    • Binaural Beats – Two slightly different frequencies presented in each ear create a perceived third frequency, stimulating specific brainwave states (Oster, 1973). Research shows binaural beats can enhance focus, relaxation, and memory retention (Garcia-Argibay et al., 2019).

    • Isochronic Tones – Single, pulsed tones at specific frequencies engage the brain more directly than binaural beats, helping to improve alertness, relaxation, and deep sleep (Huang & Charyton, 2008).

    • Light Therapy – BrainTap’s LED-powered visor delivers rhythmic light pulses that sync with brainwave frequencies, supporting cognitive processing and neuroplasticity (Zhevago & Samoilova, 2006).

    Studies from institutions like Harvard Medical School, the National Institute of Mental Health, and McGill University support the efficacy of brain entrainment in improving cognitive flexibility, emotional regulation, and stress resilience.

“A single Audio-Visual Brain Entrainment session with the BrainTap Headset saw a 38.5% improvement on the stress index scale, 27.3% Improvement on overall neurological markers, and increased heart rate variability.“

“Our meta-analysis adds to the growing evidence that binaural-beat exposure is an effective way to affect cognition over and above reducing anxiety levels and the perception of pain“

“Auditory stimulation with delta binaural beat enhanced sleep parameters such as sleep failure, the number of awakenings, real duration of sleep, sleep quality…. Finally, students' moods improved by reducing anxiety and anger“

  • Photobiomodulation (PBM) is light-based therapy that enhances cellular energy production (ATP), circulation, and neuroplasticity (Hamblin, 2016). The BrainTap headset integrates PBM through LED light stimulation, targeting key areas of brain function:

    • Alpha Wave Enhancement – PBM stimulates the visual and prefrontal cortex, promoting focus, creativity, and problem-solving abilities (Hodgson et al., 2017).

    • Melatonin & Serotonin Regulation – Studies show that light therapy can improve sleep cycles, reduce inflammation, and enhance mood stability (Rojas & Gonzalez-Lima, 2013).

    • Neurogenesis & Brain Resilience – PBM has been used in clinical settings for traumatic brain injury recovery, cognitive decline, and neurodegenerative conditions (Salehpour et al., 2018).

    Harvard University and the Wellman Center for Photomedicine have extensively studied PBM’s role in brain health and nervous system regulation, confirming its impact on memory, stress recovery, and cognitive function.

“These data imply that transcranial laser stimulation could be used as a non-invasive and efficacious approach to increase brain functions such as those related to cognitive and emotional dimensions… [This] could lead to the development of non-invasive, performance-enhancing interventions in healthy humans and in those in need of neuropsychological rehabilitation.“

“Results in healthy subjects showed that even after a single session, tPBM can be effective in influencing brain activity. In particular, the different transcranial approaches … seemed to act at both the vascular level by increasing regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) and at the neural level by changing the activity of the neurons.“

“Aging is a multifactorial biological process, characterized by a decline in physiological functions, including brain functions. Studies with animals and humans show that PBM can improve cognitive function during this phase of life. It is likely that the ability of PBM to facilitate brain energy and hemodynamic metabolism, reduce inflammatory and oxidative stress levels“

  • PEMF therapy is an FDA-approved technology that stimulates cellular repair and nervous system balance through low-frequency electromagnetic pulses (Gordon, 2020). PEMF has been widely researched in neurology, pain management, and stress recovery, showing benefits such as:

    • Nervous System Regulation – PEMF helps shift the autonomic nervous system toward parasympathetic dominance, reducing stress and anxiety (Pawluk & Layton, 2015).

    • Brain Oxygenation & ATP Production – Electromagnetic pulses enhance mitochondrial function, improving focus, mental clarity, and neuroprotection (Funk et al., 2009).

    • Improved Sleep & Emotional Stability – Studies from institutions like NASA and Johns Hopkins University demonstrate PEMF’s role in reducing inflammation, improving deep sleep cycles, and enhancing resilience to stress (Nelson et al., 2017).

    PEMF is increasingly recognised in integrative medicine, sports science, and neurotherapy, with clinical applications for trauma recovery, neuroplasticity, and long-term cognitive health.

“PEMF was shown to enhance cortical plasticity in the healthy human brain by modulating corticospinal excitability, providing potential neuroprotective benefits and opening new avenues for treating neurological disorders.“

“Approximately 30% of patients with depression are resistant to antidepressant drugs. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has been found effective in combination with antidepressants in this patient group.“

“Poor regulation of inflammatory/immune function can allow acute-phase inflammatory response to become chronic… Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) is emerging as innovative treatment for regulation of inflammation, which could have significant effects on tissue regeneration.“

Discover the science behind your well-being

Data-backed, results-driven, and designed for real change. Still have questions? Need to discuss how this technology will work with your health issues? Book a free Calm Start session and let’s get specific!