Understanding the new mental health trend of brain flossing

According to Dr Neerja Agarwal, Psychologist, Emoneeds, a mental health startup, centered around 8D audio, brain flossing creates the sensation of sounds moving around the listener’s head.

Simran Kaur, Counselling Psychologist, Lissun, explained that “just like flossing gets rid of unwanted particles between teeth, 8D audio can provide a sense of ‘brain flossing‘ by removing unwanted stimuli.”

“In other words, it is a perplexing problem or set of problems intended to diminish one’s intellect by exceeding their cerebral capacities,” Kaur added.

Though brain flossing may be a new trend, music is known to improve the brain’s performance and its effects on making our brain calmer have been discussed at length.

As per a 2017 study from the Gantt Clinical Research Institute, over the course of a four-week trial, it was found that participants who listened to binaural beats — which occur when two tones align with your brain waves to produce a beat of a different frequency — had reduced physical and psychological effects of stress.

Kaur explained that music can boost the brain’s production of the hormone dopamine. This increased dopamine production helps relieve feelings of anxiety and depression. “If you’re listening to fast-paced music, for example, you may start to feel more alert and energetic. If you’re listening to relaxing music, you may start to feel calmer and more relaxed,” she said.

She explained that 8D music is essentially a subcategory of music that ‘tricks’ your brain into thinking you’re in a bigger space.

According to Agarwal, listening to certain types of music, including 8D audio, “can activate bilateral stimulation (BLS), engaging both brain hemispheres. This can lead to increased neural connections and physical reactions, like goosebumps. While some find 8D music relaxing, others might feel overwhelmed or overstimulated.”

Some users on social media have claimed that neurodivergent individuals may experience 8D audio differently, suggesting it could provide insights into potential neurodivergence.

Reactions to brain flossing vary, and it is not a definitive indicator of any neurodevelopmental disorder. (Source: Unsplash)

Brain flossing, through 8D audio or similar experiences, may be particularly helpful to individuals who are sensory seeking or benefit from bilateral stimulation (BLS), according to Agarwal.

“It can provide a unique sensory experience, promoting relaxation, mental focus and a sense of balance in the brain. However, it might not be as effective for those who are sensory sensitive or experience sensory overload. For some, brain flossing could be overwhelming, overstimulating, or even cause discomfort,” she explained.

Meanwhile, reactions to brain flossing vary and it is not a definitive indicator of any neurodevelopmental disorder. Kaur emphasised on the importance of monitoring your reactions to any new technology, including brain flossing, and stop indulging in it, if it gets uncomfortable.

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