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Abstract

The use of sound to generate relaxation, improve sleep and increase the effectiveness of meditation has become increasingly prevalent. From using white noise and binaural techniques to aid relaxation for medical purposes (Hamilton, 2019), to the generation of meditation music. Albeit without full definition of the music aspects most effective (Lesiuk, 2016). However if these characteristics are discerned, they can then be replicated into future applications (Hernandez-Ruiz, 2020). These future applications would run narrative to the sound related relaxation aids currently available. Resulting in effective and reproducible relaxation audio which is easily accessible.
This study focuses on the immersive binaurally generated sound environment of a 9 minute guided meditation, which emphasises and utilises immersive and binaural recording and production techniques. The artefact is created with the intention of manifesting a positive psychoacoustic response within the listener, in order to benefit meditation. The artifact is aimed towards beginners in meditation, with consideration towards future applications.
The key aim in this project will be to create a useful sonic environment with all sounds designed using binaural techniques to effectively generate an immersive environment.
The artifact is designed with the intention that the listener closes their eyes and is guided through the environment, as well as through meditation. Conversations with industry professionals in meditation, helped to create an effective guided meditation environment.
This study - in conjunction with the artifact - will investigate the necessity and validity of a new form of guided meditation which encourages active mental participation and distraction (Hashemzadeh, Mirtaghi & Chalabianloo, 2011, pp. 97-105) in order to alleviate overactive thinking and other cognitive stressors.

Course: Music and Sound Technology - BSc (Hons) - C1802

Date Deposited: 2022-02-11

URI/permalink: https://library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis13792.html