Binaural beats are a type of auditory illusion that occurs when two slightly different frequencies are played into each ear separately, typically using headphones. The brain perceives a third tone that is the mathematical difference between the two. For example, if one ear is presented with a 300Hz tone and the other ear is presented with a 310Hz tone, the brain will perceive a 10Hz binaural beat- 10Hz is in the alpha wave range. Listening to this would cause an alpha wave resonance within your brain, essentially popping you into an alpha brain wave state. This phenomenon is believed to influence brainwave activity, and as a result, binaural beats are used in meditation, relaxation, stress reduction, pain management, improved sleep, and even cognitive enhancement practices.