We’ve all heard the term “brainwashed,” but usually in a negative context. However, groundbreaking new research from The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory at MIT is giving that phrase a literal, and life-saving, new meaning.
In a study published in the journal Nature in 2024, researchers revealed that specific sound and light frequencies can actually trigger the brain’s “waste disposal system.”
If you’ve ever wondered if Brainwave Entrainment (like Binaural Beats) is actually “real science,” this is the definitive proof you’ve been waiting for.
What is Brainwave Entrainment?
Before diving into the MIT study, let’s define the basics. Your brain consists of billions of neurons that communicate via electrical signals. When these neurons pulse together, they create Brainwaves.
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Beta Waves (12–30Hz): Active thinking, focus, and stress.
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Alpha Waves (8–12Hz): Relaxation and light meditation.
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Gamma Waves (30–100Hz): Peak concentration, cognitive processing, and memory.
Brainwave Entrainment is the process of using external stimuli like pulses of light or rhythmic sound to “coerce” the brain into a specific frequency. For example, if you listen to a 40Hz tone, your brain begins to synchronize its own electrical activity to that 40Hz rhythm.
The 40Hz “Power Wash”
The study, led by Dr. Li-Huei Tsai and Mitch Murdock, focused on Gamma stimulation at 40Hz. While we’ve known that Gamma waves are linked to memory, this study looked at something much deeper: The Glymphatic System.
The Glymphatic System: The Brain’s Plumbing
The brain doesn’t have a traditional lymphatic system like the rest of the body. Instead, it has the Glymphatic System—a network that uses cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to wash away metabolic “trash” that builds up during the day.
The most dangerous “trash” is a protein called Amyloid-beta. When this protein isn’t cleared out, it forms sticky plaques that are a primary hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease.
How 40Hz Changes the Biology
The MIT researchers found that when they exposed subjects to 40Hz light and sound (multisensory stimulation), something incredible happened:
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Neuronal Signaling: The neurons began to pulse at the 40Hz frequency.
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Chemical Release: This pulsing triggered the release of specific neuropeptides (interneurons).
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The “Flush”: These chemicals caused the brain’s “plumbing” to expand, allowing a massive surge of cerebrospinal fluid to rush through the brain tissue.
The result? The 40Hz stimulation literally “washed” the toxic amyloid proteins out of the brain and into the body’s waste system.
Why This Matters for Biohackers and Wellness Enthusiasts
For years, the wellness community has used Binaural Beats and Isochronic Tones for focus and sleep. However, this research elevates Brainwave Entrainment from a “mood-setter” to a legitimate neuroprotective therapy.
1. Neuroprotection Against Aging: By regularly stimulating the Glymphatic system, we may be able to prevent the accumulation of toxic proteins before they lead to cognitive decline or “brain fog.”
2. Improved Deep Work: Since 40Hz is the frequency of high-level cognition, “entraining” your brain to this state can help you enter a flow state faster while simultaneously performing “maintenance” on your neurons.
3. Non-Invasive Wellness: Unlike pharmaceutical interventions, 40Hz stimulation is non-invasive. It’s as simple as wearing headphones or sitting in front of a flickering light (though those with epilepsy should always consult a doctor first).
How to Apply This Today
You don’t need a lab at MIT to experiment with 40Hz entrainment. Here is how you can integrate these findings into your routine:
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Listen to 40Hz Binaural Beats: Use high-quality headphones during your first 90 minutes of deep work.
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Use Multisensory Apps: Some apps now sync your phone’s flashlight to flicker at 40Hz while playing a corresponding tone.
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Consistency is Key: In the MIT studies, the most significant results came from consistent, daily exposure.
- Use Mistikist: Mistikist provides the frequencies at the highest quality possible, which increase the effectiveness of brainwave entrainment.
The Future of Sound Medicine
The MIT study is a landmark moment in neuroscience. It proves that our brains are not static; they are highly responsive to the frequencies of our environment. By understanding the link between Brainwave Entrainment and the Glymphatic System, we are entering an era where sound isn’t just for listening, it’s for healing.
Resources:
Murdock, M.H., Yang, CY., Sun, N. et al. Multisensory gamma stimulation promotes glymphatic clearance of amyloid. Nature 627, 149–156 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-024-07132-6
