Primer on VIZR Psycho-Active Technology:
Insights to Support Research & Functional Investigation Efforts

Garnet Dupuis > Lucid Studios
April 10, 2024

TABLE OF CONTENT

Purpose of Paper
Super Simple Summary
Brain Engagement Definition
Introduction
How to Relate to the VIZR Experience
Sources in Science
Core Concepts
List of Application Summaries
VIZR Hardware
VIZR Triple Signal Dynamics
Brain Engagement & Neuroplasticity
Sensory Enrichment
Brain Priming
EMDR & VIZR
Entropic Brain/Psychedelic Information Theory
REBUS & Anarchic Brain
VIZR Session Composition Design Principles
Concept
Terminology
Neuroplastic Change
Neuroplastic Capacity/Neuroplastic Demand
Hyperplasticity
Brain Engagement
Complex Adaptive System (CAS)
Random
Chaos
Deterministic Chaos
Hidden Determinants
Strange Attractors
Core Signaling
Stability/Instability
Information
Linear/Circular
Mood Framing
Macro/Meso/Micro Signaling
The Composition Vector
The 11 Minute Magic
The Rock Band Analogy
Composition Structuring Templates
Basic Template

PURPOSE

The following paper is intended to present information in support of any technical investigation into the functional effects and benefits of the VIZR Experience. The foundational design elements of the VIZR incorporate a variety of conventional and unconventional features that must be considered in any effort to investigate and value its actions.

SUPER SIMPLE SUMMARY

Our human brain is capable of both Ordinary Mind and Extraordinary Mind states.
Both are natural, normal and healthy while serving fundamental functions.
Periods of time in Extraordinary Mind serve to support complex problem solving.
The VIZR Experience is a safe and reliable way to generate Extraordinary Mind states.
Positive Extraordinary Mind experiences also improve Ordinary Mind functions.

BRAIN ENGAGEMENT – DEFINITION

Brain Engagement is a new term meant to describe the unique functionality of the VIZR Experience. At the core of the design is the ability to stimulate and guide positive neuroplastic change and adaption in our brain.

INTRODUCTION

The Mission and Vision of the VIZR centers on Mental Health in this Age of Angst. It is understood that our current contemporary society is being driven by an increasingly materialistic and reductionistic philosophy that focuses on the manipulation of forces without any value attributed to deep meaning and purpose at the core of life.

To quote from the nihilism of Existential philosophy, “God is Dead” and “Life is absurd”. It may be further argued that the Left Hemisphere Brain perspective of logical science and the “top-down” values of the abstract intellect deconstruct wholistic appreciations and, like thieves, rob us of deeper soulful fulfilment in our daily lives.

The Psycho-Active Technology of the VIZR Experience meets this challenge head on with dynamic features and functions directly intended to confront the seeds of Angst and enliven the natural, normal and healthy extraordinary functions of our brain.

HOW TO RELATE TO THE VIZR EXPERIENCE

The information below adequately demonstrates the fact that there is more than one way to relate to the VIZR Experience. The chosen approach is conditioned by the context of one’s personal experiences (set and setting), personal beliefs and philosophy and the intended goals and benefits being sought out.

For example, persons with a matured experience in yogic and/or meditation practices may relate to the quick access to types of depth consciousness that normally result from sustained sessions of meditation.

Alternatively, persons with experiences involving psychedelic compounds and associated “journeys” will easily relate to the gorgeous displays of colors and patterns accompanied by “uncommon altered states of consciousness”.

Artists and musicians may comfortably accept the transformations and unique perspectives found in the explorations that are characteristic of the creative act.

Persons with deep spiritual views and religious beliefs may find access to higher dimensions of thought and feelings.

Persons that have not accessed or explored any of the above examples may find the initial experience confusing or confounding. They may even resist or terminate the experience out of hesitation or fear.

For such persons, it is important to present a “story” that involves an agreeable context. One example could be that of “exercise” in which the VIZR Experience is presented as “light and sound exercise for you brain disguised as entertainment”.

Also, persons with high anxiety and a habit of maintaining “control” may present with resistance to the VIZR Experience. In such cases, baby steps in learning how to trust and “let go” may be required. Short sessions with low levels of Light Intensity with sessions of low “neuroplastic demand” may be best suited for such persons.

In terms of “relatability”, the following limited examples may be considered:

1) Help Right Now

When you encounter an uncomfortable state of mind and you need a short-term “quick fix”;
A VIZR session can trigger a “State Shift” that helps remedy the discomfort.

2) Brain Exercise

Because the brain is physical (as is our entire body), certain amounts of “exercise” on a reasonably regular cycle will improve the state and functionality of the brain;
You can use the light/sound stimulation of the VIZR to “exercise” your brain.

3) Train Your Brain

You have a goal in mind to improve specific brain functions (relaxation, focus, creativity, sleep, etc) and selecting a theme or routine based approach to the VIZR Experience can move you towards higher probability of skill set acquisition.

4) Protect Your Brain

Although unproven, current research is pointing towards the possibility that certain forms of light/sound stimulation generated on a regular basis may be protective against forms of neurodegeneration such as dementia and Alzheimer’s.

5) Addiction & Rehab

It is possible that the VIZR Experience may offer a substantial benefit for persons dealing with the challenges of addiction especially within the rehabilitation process.

6) Mental Health Therapies

As a “psycho-active technology”, the VIZR Experience may serve as a complement to certain mental health therapies such as cognitive therapy, EMDR, etc;
There is also the possibility that it may serve as an alternative to the use of psychedelic compounds in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy when the compound has legal restrictions or is unacceptable to the client/patient;
The VIZR Experience may also serve as a “stacking” effect in which much lower doses of a psychedelic compound can be administered with an equivalent effect of a larger dose.

7) Meditation Assist

Slowing down the mind and settling into a focused state can be accelerated by using the VIZR;
Using the actual session as a “meditation primer” allows one to relax into a calm and sensitive state of awareness that is highly conducive to many forms of conventional meditation.

8) Consciousness Exploration

The rapid “hypnagogic” induction created by the VIZR Experience opens the doors to many uncommon “altered states of mind”;
Users report aspects of “remote viewing”, “thought transference” and other PSI-type experiences related to the VIZR Experience.

9) Psychedelic Stacking

Persons that familiar with various psychedelic substances as well as cannabis report very satisfying experiences combining the VIZR Experience with low doses of the compounds;
The VIZR Experience (and especially the Drug-Free Microdosing programs) permit a person to explore very low doses of compounds while generating subjective states typical of higher doses which reduces risk and increases levels of control.

10) Healthy Fun

Play and entertainment using healthy forms of stimulation and experience are very attractive and may, in fact, contribute substantially to improved wellness both mental and physical.
The VIZR Experience can serve as an excellent alternative to more high risk and possibly illegal forms of “fun”.

SOURCES IN SCIENCE

The VIZR design elements are derived, in good part, from a number of well validated theories and practices found within various scientific specialties and domains. There are also novel and unique interpretations introduced into the more conventional elements that represent a further evolution and expansion of the principles.

Examples of sources include:

Cybernetics;
Complex Adaptive Systems;
Information Theory;
Neuroplasticity;
Psychedelic Information Theory;
Predictive Coding Brain Model;
Entropic Brain & Anarchic Models;
REBUS (Relaxing Existing Beliefs Using pSychedelics);
Sensory Enrichment;
Brain Priming;
Brain Entrainment;
Neuro-theology;
Neuro-anthropology.

CORE CONCEPTS

1) Brain Engagement

Because the VIZR Experience involves a number of unique features and functions, a new term has been created to describe this approach. The new term is Brain Engagement.

2) Perspectives in Considering the Human Brain

There are a number of ways or perspectives in considering our human brain:

Old Brain/New Brain;
Bottom-Up/Top-Down;
Right Hemisphere/Left Hemisphere;
Extra-Ordinary Mind/Ordinary Mind;
Implicit Information/Explicit Information;
Altered State of Consciousness/Normal Consciousness;
Expanded Mind/Common Mind;
Intuitive Mind/Rational Mind.

3) Right Hemisphere and Left Hemisphere

Our human brain has a dual structure described as Right Hemisphere and Left Hemisphere. Our current contemporary culture over-values the Left Hemisphere (for manipulation) and under-values the Right Hemisphere (for understanding). This misappropriation of value has a potent influence in the development of Angst.

4) Bottom-Up and Top-Down Processing

In the general conceptualization of consciousness, the complementary neurological interaction of “Bottom-Up” and “Top-Down” information processing is fundamental. “Bottom-Up” can be generally associated with the Right Hemisphere functionality and “Top-Down” associated with Left Hemisphere.

5) Present Moment and Predictive Processing

Bottom-Up information is derived from immediate sensory input from the environment (which includes somatic interoception) and is confined to the Present Moment.

Top-Down information is derived from the flow of Bottom-Up information itself and is consequently organized into a library of the Past and a predictive function of the Future.

Top-Down cognition has no direct access to the reality of the Present Moment and constructs a virtual representation of experience.

6) BRAIN ECONOMICS

Despite the perpetual “hard problem” of how a Mind exists in relation to our Brain, one thing we know for sure is that we have a physical organ called the Brain.

As a physical organ, our Brain requires 20% of our entire body energy to function.

Within the Brain itself, there is a constant competition for energy and other metabolic resources.

This fact is the basis of what is known as the Free Energy Principle. This principle recognizes that our Brain will always attempt to conserve energy while performing critical tasks.

Our “Bottom-Up” Old Brain flow of information is continuous and intense. There is no way that our Brain can spend enough energy to process all of this “right now” stimulation.

So, the “Top-Down” New Brain tries to make “short cuts” by “jumping to conclusions” and by making predictions based on likely similarities of information.

These “Top-Down” predictions are “best guesses” of reality that are at the heart of Brain energy conservation.

Our New Brain is essentially a “rational gambler” in the game of biological survival and much of the time it wins more often than it loses by “hedging its bets”.

As we climb up Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, the “rational gambler” begins to lose its edge as certain qualities of experience “stop making sense”.

In order to access a greater range of information that is not catalogued in the “Ordinary Mind” library, greater levels of Brain connectivity are triggered along with an “expensive” increase of Brain resources to activate the “Extra-Ordinary Mind”.

The Ordinary Mind will resist because it wants to “horde” its typical allocation of energy and rely on pre-existing “habits” and reflex patterns of response.

Ordinary or common local connections are inhibited while a massive increase in global connections is enabled. These Extra-Ordinary Mind states tend to be limited in time as compared to Ordinary Mind because of their consumption of Free Energy.

Experiences in the Extra-Ordinary Mind are completely natural and held in reserve for when unique problem solving is required that is beyond the capacity of the Ordinary Mind. Admittedly, they are “expensive” but well worth the spend considering the value accumulated in return.

7) VIZR as a Bottom-Up Form of Brain Stimulation

The VIZR Experience is primarily a “Bottom-Up” form of brain stimulation and generates “present moment” states of consciousness and awareness.

Other approaches such as Brain Entrainment, Guided Imagery, Visualization, Puzzle Solving and Language Acquisition are primarily “Top-Down” forms of brain stimulation.

Such Top-Down approaches contribute to an indirect virtual construct of experience dissociated from “present moment” states of consciousness and awareness.

8) Attention

The conscious condition we call “attention” is the cognitive attempt to harmonize Bottom-Up sensory information with Top-Down conceptual organization and prediction functions.

“Attention” is actually how we relate to the world and dictates our relationships and perceptions.

9) Right Hemisphere and the Other

The Right Hemisphere “pays attention” to the Other – to whatever exists apart from ourselves, with which it sees itself in profound relationship.

By contrast, the Left Hemisphere “pays attention” to the virtual world that it has created which is self-consistent but self-contained, ultimately disconnected from the Other. (Ways of Attending by McGilchrist)

10) Context and Connection

The Right Hemisphere (Bottom-Up) is better at making connections between things and is more embedded in the real-world context, whereas the Left Hemisphere (Top-Down) sees the parts and in an abstract construct.

11) Ordinary Mind and Extraordinary Mind

Our brain has a wide range of normal, natural and healthy functions that can, in simplification, be divided into Ordinary Mind and Extraordinary Mind.

Both are important and serve a range of functional tasks. Ordinary Mind is considered more “common” while Extraordinary Mind is less common or “uncommon”. However, simply because it is “uncommon” does not make it “abnormal”.

Ordinary Mind is critical for everyday ongoing functioning and builds patterns as the basis for predictions. Our Ordinary Mind is always “jumping to conclusions”.

Our Extraordinary Mind specializes in non-linear problem solving and information processing when there are too many variables for a basic linear assessment.

Ordinary Mind strives for “certainty” while Extraordinary Mind seeks “probability”.

12) Functions of Ordinary Mind and Extraordinary Mind

Ordinary Mind is critical for everyday ongoing functioning and builds patterns as the basis for predictions. Our Ordinary Mind is always “jumping to conclusions”. Our Extraordinary Mind specializes in non-linear problem solving and information processing when there are too many variables for a basic linear assessment.

Ordinary Mind strives for “certainty” while Extraordinary Mind seeks “probability”.

13) Extraordinary Mind and Angst

The resolution of Angst (and its associated anxiety and depression) is typically a challenge for most people.

A principal position related to the VIZR Experience is that limited periods of experience in the Extraordinary Mind offer significant benefits in the remedying of Angst.

The multi-factored, non-linear information processing that is native to the Extraordinary Mind promotes “ways of knowing without thinking”.

Hence, simply entering into a state of Extraordinary Mind, coupled with a general intent, may be sufficient to alter one’s degree of Angst.

14) Extraordinary Mind and Wellbeing

States of Extraordinary Mind are natural and are integrated into our normal 24 hour Circadian Cycle.

When compared to Ordinary Mind, Extraordinary Mind is indeed exceptional yet, as exceptional as it may appear to our common perspectives, Extraordinary Mind is a critical element in both mental and physical wellbeing.

15) Circadian Cycle

Our Circadian Cycle is broadly divided into Waking and Sleeping. Within Sleeping we have the sub-set of Sleeping Dreams and within Waking, the sub-set of Waking Dreams.

16) Sleeping Dreams

Sleeping Dreams enhance creativity and problem-solving. It's been shown that deep non-REM sleep strengthens individual memories. But REM sleep is when those memories can be fused and blended together in abstract and highly novel ways.

17) Waking Dreams

Waking Dreams are typically considered as an aspect of transitions from waking to sleep and sleep to waking (hypnagogia and hypnopompia).

This limitation is false because Waking Dreams can be experienced (with some limited training) at will during the general Waking state.

Deep conscious relaxation is required to enter into the Waking Dreams which can act as portal into Extraordinary Mind.

18) The Fourth State of Consciousness

In tantra yoga traditions, such Waking Dreams are known as “The Fourth State of Consciousness” and is associated with the Yoga Nidra practice of “yogic sleep”.

Current interest in this technique has been labeled “Non-Sleep Deep Rest” (NSDR).

19) Fourth State Deficiency Syndrome

VIZR promotes a theory that much of our Angst based distress (including disrupted sleep) is symptomatic of a “Fourth State Deficiency Syndrome” in which persons are deprived of their critical Circadian Cycle periods of Extraordinary Mind as accessed via Waking Dreams.

20) Hypnagogia as a Gateway

One interpretation of the VIZR Experience is a quick, safe and reliable induction of “hypnagogia” which can act as a “gateway” into NSDR and serve to access states of Extraordinary Mind.

21) Changed Feelings About Facts

One feature often observed in persons who experience states of Extraordinary Mind is that, when returning to Ordinary Mind, the “facts” remain the same but the “feelings about the facts” have changed to a more positive point of view.

22) State Shifts and Trait Training

As viewed from the perspective of neuroplasticity, there are two interrelated functional dynamics as related to neural stimulation: short-term State Shifts and long-term Trait Training.

Compounding reasonable repetition and reinforcement of State Shifts can result in Trait Training.

23) Ordinary Mind and Extraordinary Mind as Natural Brain Conditions

Our human brain has the capacity to access both Ordinary Mind and Extraordinary Mind. These conditions are not absolutely separate and also have functions that manifest by degree.

A stimulation is required in order to move temporarily from Ordinary Mind to Extraordinary Mind. Such a stimulus is known as a Psycho-Active Agent.

24) Psycho-Active Agents

There are many types or forms of Psycho-Active Agents. They exist in bio-chemical and bio-physical types including methods and techniques.

Any “agency” that triggers a shift from Ordinary Mind and Extraordinary Mind is considered a Psycho-Active Agent.

25) VIZR as Psycho-Active Technology

The VIZR Experience is built upon a Psycho-Active Technology.

26) Rapid Psycho-Active Agent

Some Psycho-Active Agents act very quickly while others act more slowly. Examples of quickness are psychedelic compounds, various assertive breathing techniques and extreme temperature exposure.

Examples of slower agents are certain meditation techniques and cognitive approaches such as guided imagery.

The VIZR Experience may be considered as a rapid Psycho-Active Agent.

27) Psycho-Active Agents and Psychedelic Compounds

For clarification, all psychedelic compounds are “psycho-active agents” but not all “psycho-active agents” are psychedelic compounds.

28) “Electric Psychedelic” / “E-Psychedelic”

The VIZR Experience has been characterized by some as being an “electric psychedelic” or “e-psychedelic”.

Using the general concept of a “psycho-active agent”, the VIZR Experience is often described as being “psychedelic” by those with experiences of actual psychedelic compounds.

Appreciating that our human brain has innate “extraordinary” capacities that can be triggered or activated by various psycho-active agents makes this comparison credible.

29) Cognitive Rigidity to Cognitive Fluidity

Adaptive change is at the heart of a healthy brain/mind. The evolution of Cognitive Rigidity to Cognitive Fluidity is a principal goal and function of the VIZR Experience.

Being able to change when change is required reflects a healthy brain/mind.

Cognitive Rigidity can be thought of as being “stuck” either as a result of excessive pattern repetition or unprocessed traumatic experience.

30) Neuro-Gnostic Structures

The Extraordinary Mind involves physical attributes of the brain and is not simply a distortion or deviation of the Ordinary Mind.

Neuro-anthropology describes these physical attributes as “neuro-gnostic structures”.

31) VIZR and Meditation

Persons attempting various meditation techniques, with uneven success, are known to describe the VIZR Experience as being a rapid and effective approach to entering a deeper meditation state.

One probable reason for this attitude is the fact that specific aspects of the flickering light (photic stimulation) stimulate a section of the brain (dorsal-lateral pre-frontal cortex) in such a way that the person is able to maintain conscious alertness as they relax into the meditation.

Instead of drowsiness or decreased attention, the person is able to maintain “presence” that allows a deepening of the meditation.

32) Neuroplasticity

The capacity of the adult human brain for progressive change and adaption is known as “neuroplasticity”.

Sayings such as “Fire it to Wire it”, “Use it or Lose it” and “The Brain Changes What Matters” describe this process.

33) The Brain Changes What Matters

The saying “The Brain Changes What Matters” is insightful and points to the necessity of a combination of factors required to trigger a neuroplastic process.

The trigger minimally requires “focal attention” and “marginal demand” and is enhanced by “open minded willingness and/or faith” plus (the “secret sauce”) of enjoyment.

34) Hormesis

The condition known as “hormesis” is found in neuroplastic processes. In the fields of biology and medicine hormesis is defined as an adaptive response of cells and organisms to a moderate (usually intermittent) stress.

Examples include ischemic preconditioning, exercise, dietary energy restriction and exposures to low doses of certain phytochemicals.

The VIZR Experience, as a Psycho-Active Technology, utilizes the principle of “hormesis” in its dynamic light signaling designs hence the short periods of higher stimulus demand found intermittently within a session.

35) Eustress and Distress

The general concept of “stress” is oversimplified in society as a “bad” thing. Hans Selye (The Father of Stress Theory) expressed a more nuanced concept.

He recognized both “eustress” and “distress”. Essentially, “eustress” (aka “good stress”) is a fundamental need in a healthy organism and “distress” (aka “bad stress”) is when the challenges exceed necessary limits.

Neuroplasticity and hormesis involve aspects of “eustress” and the designs of the VIZR Experience incorporate a variety of “eustress” signaling characteristics.

36) Brain Prime and Brain Time

The VIZR Experience can be simply divided into two stages or phases: Brain Prime and Brain Time.

Brain Prime is the induction of the light and sound stimulation. Brain Time is the period of stimulation integration following the induction period.

37) Hyperplasticity

The Brain Prime stimulation generates a Brain Time period of sustained neurological sensitivity known as “hyperplasticity” which lasts about 1 to 2 hours then subsides only to reassert itself about 8 hours later at a lower level of sensitivity.

Following the Circadian Cycle, it again reasserts itself at 24 hours then 48 hours, each time with diminished reactivity.

38) Metaplasticity

Repeated and reinforced states of “hyperplasticity” can compound to a more sustained and higher level of neural receptivity known as “metaplasticity”.

LIST OF APPLICATION SUMMARIES

1) VIZR HARDWARE

Summary: The physical design of the LEDs maximizes the optometric requirements for a unique type of MACRO pattern stimulation of the central and autonomic nervous systems.

2) VIZR TRIPLE SIGNAL DYNAMICS

Summary: The NeuroVIZR utilizes three integrated types of light signaling simultaneously resulting in unusually rich and meaningful brain information messaging.

3) BRAIN ENGAGEMENT & NEUROPLASTICITY

Summary: The NeuroVIZR light/sound signaling processes are built upon the core factors that are known to engage and enhance positive neuroplasticity.

4) SENSORY ENRICHMENT

Summary: The cardinal sensory enrichment factors that stimulate generalized neuroplastic processes are fundamentally incorporated into the NeuroVIZR light/sound signaling designs.

5) BRAIN PRIMING

Summary: The NeuroVIZR light/sound experience serves as an effective Brain Priming stimulation and thereby improves the outcomes of a wide variety of associated techniques and therapies.

6) EMDR & VIZR

Summary: The EMDR psychological process is enhanced by the application of alternating bilateral photic stimulation also found throughout the VIZR light/sound sessions.

7) Entropic Brain/Psychedelic Information Theory

Summary: Advanced brain research utilizing psychedelic compounds creates a roadmap for VIZR light/sound signaling designs that have integrated periods of de-stabilization and re-stabilization for optimum information processing.

8) REBUS & ANARCHIC BRAIN

Summary: The combination of Certainty and Uncertainty of signaling in the VIZR light/sound experience promotes a softening or relaxing of rigid neurological patterns which enhance the acquisition of new adaptive behaviors.

VIZR HARDWARE

Summary: The physical design of the LEDs maximizes the optometric requirements for a unique type of MACRO pattern stimulation of the central and autonomic nervous systems.

When inspecting the NeuroVIZR hardware headset, it is immediately obvious that the LEDs are in a unique configuration and placement away from the eyes. The design is very much unlike conventional “Mind Machine” Brain Entrainment devices both current and historically that use goggles/eyeglass frames.

This distinct design is an expression of highly specific optometric parameters required for the successful application of so-called MACRO stimulation patterns and movements of the LED light signaling.

In simplicity, the horizontal and vertical (H/V) limits must match the H/V of the average human visual field and present a normative binocular vision spectrum. This same H/V parameter set is well known in Virtual Reality devices and applications.

These MACRO LED signal positions and movements are known to affect the autonomic nervous system in relation to either sympathetic excitation or parasympathetic sedation as well as various cognitive functions such as memory and visual/auditory imagination.

Advanced neuro-psychological studies also illustrate such factors as applied to EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitizing & Reprocessing – see EMDR section below).

VIZR TRIPLE SIGNAL DYNAMICS

Summary: The VIZR utilizes three integrated types of light signaling simultaneously resulting in unusually rich and meaningful brain information messaging.

In the section above (VIZR HARDWARE), the concept of MACRO signaling is introduced. Here we shall expand the signaling dynamics to include all three of the approaches found in the VIZR. The three are:

MACRO
MESO
MICRO

MACRO

As described above, MACRO signals involve specific LED activity in terms of various static positions on the LED template as well as a variety of moving patterns.

Such static/moving patterns have a generalized effect upon the nervous system and create a foundational disposition in the neurological responses to the overall signaling.

MESO

The MESO signaling refers a very special range of LED “pulsing” rates (to be distinguished from the MICRO “flickering” rates).

Advancing neurological research is increasingly recognizing that physiological oscillatory rates throughout the human body express themselves in rhythms that ideally constitute an overall “resonance”.

Therefore, brain wave oscillations will exist in harmonic relationship to many more somatic oscillations throughout the soma or body.

Heart rate, breathing rates, cerebral-spinal pulsations, peristaltic contractions and so on seek resonance with the ideal goal of coherence.

Think of MESO pulses as being like music rhythms that you can dance to. Let’s face it, no one can dance to the “flicker” rates of brain waves.

MICRO

The LEDs also turn off and on (flicker) at rates within the second. These MICRO signals have the fine-tuning effects in the brain messaging.

Micro controllers can easily manage such rates which constitute the MICRO level of the NeuroVIZR TRIPLE SIGNAL DYNAMICS.

Such MICRO signaling has a compositional set point that enables different “strengths” in the flicker by adjusting the “duty cycle” of each flicker.

Furthermore, series sequencing and rates of change play a critical role in the effects of the MICRO flicker signals. The effects can be reasonably compared to the core significance of sound compositional structures common to all musical styles and genres.

COMBINING MACRO-MESO-MICRO

The ability to compose and adjust simultaneously three distinct yet integrated levels of light signaling yields a unique and unusually rich visual messaging experience.

Each level of light signaling is effective in its own right so when combining them the information output is drastically enhanced much like combining three separate musical instruments into a jazz ensemble.

BRAIN ENGAGEMENT & NEUROPLASTICITY

Summary: The VIZR light/sound signaling processes are built upon the core factors that are known to engage and enhance positive neuroplasticity.

It is impossible to avoid the term neuroplasticity when considering our brain wellness. The VIZR light/sound experience incorporates at a fundamental level proven elements of successful neuroplastic stimulation techniques. As such, the new term Brain Engagement is applied to the VIZR methodology.

Four factors are required to successfully “ENGAGE” our brain in directed neuroplastic growth and adaptation:

Sustained focus attention;
Marginal demand;
Open-minded belief or willingness;
Enjoyment of the process (the “secret sauce”).

The VIZR checks off all four of these factors.

One can note that conventional Brain Entrainment (Frequency Following Response) fails in a number of the four outlined above.

In Brain Entrainment, because the signals are superimposed upon the brain, the brain will surrender to the periodicity of the signals and follow along automatically. This is the very nature of “entrainment”.

The neuroplastic phrase “The brain changes what matters” points to the fact that “sustained focus attention” is the primary trigger to engage the neuroplastic adaption process which is absent in conventional Brain Entrainment.

Continuing, the “just a little bit challenging” quality of “marginal demand” is also absent in conventional Brain Entrainment.

For the brain to grow and change, there must be an appropriate amount of “demand” or challenge.

In current “flow” processes (adapted from the pioneering work of Mihaly Csikszentmihaly), there is also the recognition of states of “friction” that can help catapult the mind into “flow”.

Lastly, basic Brain Entrainment signaling is famously boring if not irritating hence all of the attempts at masking the signals with ambient sounds and music in an attempt to make the experience more enjoyable and tolerable.

This is especially a challenge when the sessions require 20 to 60 minutes of exposure in order to impact the brain.

Many devices boast the use of binaural beats for brain entrainment despite the fact that such signals are less effective than the standard isochronic signals.

The choice of binaural beats is obvious – they can be easily masked with attractive ambient sounds/music.

SENSORY ENRICHMENT

Summary: The cardinal sensory enrichment factors that stimulate generalized neuroplastic processes are fundamentally incorporated into the VIZR light/sound signaling designs.

It is fascinating that the person credited with the early recognition of basic brain neuroplasticity is also the same person to successfully demonstrate the neuroplastic results of Sensory Enrichment processes.

Donald Hebb, a Canadian researcher, performed impressive rodent research back in the late 1940’s in “environmental enrichment” experiments. (Sensory Enrichment is an extension of Environmental Enrichment principles.)

It was clearly evident that such “enrichment” promoted generalize neuroplastic growth in the brain. When examining the physical brains of “sensory enriched” rodents, surprisingly these brains were actually larger and more developed as a result of the enrichment processes.

During the decades that followed (and preceding our current period) what we now call “neuroplasticity” was called “Hebbian Learning”.

The VIZR light/sound experience uses Sensory Enrichment methodology to stimulate generalized neuroplastic responses.

Five factors are required to successfully “ENRICH” our brain in generalized neuroplastic growth and adaptation:

Combine two different sensory types of stimulation;
The sensory experience must be novel/unique and unlike common experience;
The experience must be isolated and free from distraction;
The user must be of free will and not forced;
The experience optimally should be enjoyable (more “secret sauce”).

The VIZR checks off all five of these factors.

BRAIN PRIMING

Summary: The VIZR light/sound experience serves as an effective Brain Priming stimulation and thereby improves the outcomes of a wide variety of associated techniques and therapies.

The Brain Priming characteristics of the VIZR make the experience “everybody’s best friend”.

Regardless of what neuro-stimulatory techniques one employs, doing the VIZR first tends to make the outcomes of the techniques better.

Priming, applied in both physiological and psychological tasks, is a technique whereby exposure to one stimulus influences a response to a subsequent stimulus, without necessarily induced conscious guidance or intention.

“Priming” is a type of implicit learning wherein a stimulus prompts a change in behavior.

Priming, which may occur after a single learning episode, is a type of implicit learning and is known as being capable of inducing neuroplasticity.

“Studies of priming originated in psychology, but have since been investigated in neuroscience, neurorehabilitation, and cognitive neuroscience using behavioral and brain mapping techniques. These studies, both translational and clinical, have been examining ... priming as a tool for inducing neuroplasticity...”. (Stoykov and Madhavan,)

The general theory underlying priming is that the brain, which has been primed by a prior method of activation, is generally more responsive to the accompanying training.

Priming presupposes that enhanced neural activity prior to or during training can facilitate the acquisition of long-term potentiation- (LTP) or long-term depression- (LTD) like mechanisms.

Two proposed neural mechanisms for priming include gating and homeostatic plasticity.

Gating occurs by disinhibition of intracortical inhibitory circuits as a result of increase in calcium in the targeted cortical neurons.

Gating occurs instantaneously and is achieved concurrently with motor training.

Homeostatic plasticity is the ability of neurons to increase excitability after a period of low synaptic activity (and conversely, to decrease excitability after a period of high synaptic activity) and is related to changes in postsynaptic glutamate receptors.

The time scale of homeostatic meta-plasticity, in comparison to gating, is protracted, and hence the resting state of neurons is modulated prior to training in order to induce synaptic plasticity.

The priming paradigms that are supported by the greatest amount of evidence are:

Energetic Stimulation – based (such as transcranial magnetic stimulation)
Motor Imagery - based (mental movement rehearsal)
Sensory – based (NB. VIZR style “priming” is Sensory-based.)
Movement – based (actual low power movement rehearsal)
Pharmacological – based.

Source: Ziemann and Siebner

Upon consideration, it becomes evident that Sensory-based Brain Priming and Sensory Enrichment and Neuroplastic Engagement are all overlapping methods that enable similar or possibly even the same core neurological methods of adaptation and self-regulation.

Any apparent distinction may simply be an artefact of the various disciplines studying the phenomena and not any real difference in the mechanisms and outcomes.

EMDR & VIZR

Summary: The EMDR psychological process is enhanced by the application of alternating bilateral photic stimulation also found throughout the VIZR light/sound sessions.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy treatment that was originally designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories.

Shapiro’s (2001) Adaptive Information Processing model posits that EMDR therapy facilitates the accessing and processing of traumatic memories and other adverse life experience to bring these to an adaptive resolution.

Memory consolidation during sleep contextualizes memories into the broader narrative of the individual's lifeline and is essential to meaning and self-identity.

Trauma memories and associated fantasies (e.g. “what if” fantasies, fantasies of revenge against the perpetrator, etc.) fail to be integrated, either because of their high emotional charge, or because of their taboo and unacceptable nature.

Desensitization of affective charge and acceptance of taboo emotional processing during EMDR restores normal memory contextualization and integration at night.

The idea presented here is that the indirect therapeutic effect of EMDR on sleep is made considerably stronger by augmenting EMDR with alternating bilateral photic stimulation (ABPS).

The dorsolateral prefrontal cortex remains activated during the flicker-induced “waking dream” and its functions of reflective thought and insight are preserved.

It is hypothesized that flicker-induced hypnagogic imagery reinforces the EMDR mechanism of action, namely facilitation of memory integration during sleep, by creating greater linkage between EMDR therapy and dreaming.

With ABPS-induced visioning EMDR progresses seamlessly from initial targeting of trauma and adversity to desensitization of emotionally-charged brain-disturbing material related to identity, selfhood, and embodiment.

Desensitization of the affect allows the self-regulatory dynamics of sleep-dreaming to restore embodied selfhood by an integrative process of resynchronization.

Source: Peter Carr, 2020

One of the principal theories as to EMDR's mechanisms of action is sleep-dependent memory processing.

It is proposed that the alternating bilateral stimulation (ABS) of the EMDR procedure especially when reinforced by alternating bilateral photic stimulation (ABPS) induces a brain/mind state similar to that of REM sleep and facilitates the memory processing during sleep that is necessary for the resolution of trauma.

The VIZR light/sound compositions employ alternating bilateral photic stimulation within the templated constructs of sessions.

Hence, the VIZR may be used as a novel form of Brain Priming for EMDR applications or as a general process to help access deeper levels of retained experiences.

Entropic Brain/Psychedelic Information Theory

The recent reintroduction of the scientific study of psychedelic compounds has had a powerful effect upon brain neurological research.

The theoretical insights of Kent (Psychedelic Information Theory) and technical research of Carhart-Harris (Entropic Brain Model) are just two examples of high impact perspectives directly influencing the light/sound compositional constructs used in the VIZR experience.

At the heart of both Kent’s and Carhart-Harris’ understandings are the complementary factors of Order and Disorder (sometimes considered as Syntropy/Entropy or Certainty/Uncertainty or Stable/Unstable).

Our brain constantly attempts to make predictions and seek out patterns. These neurological activities are considered “top-down” processes and are critical in maintaining high levels of Ordered responses in the wake of flooding sensory stimulation.

Using Bayesian statistical terminology, our brain attempts to “reduce prediction errors” as our brain consistently “jumps to conclusions”.

Basic biological survival depends largely on correct predictions.

Perhaps surprisingly, our Order-loving brain, like all natural complex adaptive systems also regularly dances up to the edge of Chaos and back.

Consider Chaos = Entropy = Disorder = Uncertainty.

Apparently, when old Order is insufficient to match various adaptive challenges, the brain will temporarily abandon Order and venture into the Uncertain realms of Entropic Disorder.

This Uncertain realm is obviously hard to predict and identify patterns – however it is also exceedingly “rich” (the Carhart-Harris term) in a wide range of potential possibilities.

The VIZR light/sound compositions are constructed upon templates that purposefully engage in degrees of “tempered instability” that act to disengage the brain from older Ordered neurological patterns in an effort to stimulate exposure to new informational experiences.

Once “destabilized”, an “appetite” for Order is increased making it more effective in integrating experiences back into the more common Order states of consciousness.

REBUS & ANARCHIC BRAIN

The brilliant Karl Friston has developed profound models related brain behavior including the Free-Energy Principle, brain SURPRISE functions and his deep system of Active Inference.

Friston partnered up with Robin Carhart-Harris (see above) to form a concept called REBUS (a clumsy acronym - it stands for Relaxed Beliefs Under Psychedelics (RElaxed Beliefs Under pSychedelics).

They also propose the Anarchic Brain Model.

“Anarchic” is the adjective of anarchy. “Anarchy” literally means “without a leader”. So, what is the meaning of “Anarchic Brain”?

In this model, the “leader” is the common Ordered Waking State which is active throughout much of our daily periods of task fulfillment.

It is the “leader” in mundane activities and acts to decipher the flood of ongoing stimulation both from the external environment and our internal awareness.

An Altered State of Consciousness will break away from this leadership leaving Ordered Consciousness to expand and explore the Disordered and Uncertain realms of possibility.

Our brain commits anarchy in the Altered State of Consciousness.

The critical point here is this anarchic state is NOT foreign to the brain. It is an intrinsic and innate capacity within the brain to “let loose” of “high-level priors/belief patterns” and explore new adaptive possibilities that may then be retrieved and successfully integrated into newly reconfigured Ordered Consciousness.

It is a dynamic form of learning that is necessary when old non-functional molds need by broken.

Here it is proposed that the NeuroVIZR light/sound compositional constructs create a short but reliable Altered State of Consciousness (ASC) which permits a “relaxing of beliefs/patterns” and a “bottom-up” neurological entry into increased ranges of adaptive problem-solving information.

VIZR SESSION COMPOSITION DESIGN PRINCIPLES

CONCEPT

The underlying axiom in VIZR Compositional Structuring is that the brain has natural sets of innate communication processes that have been optimized for signal integration over long periods of evolution.

The concept of “bio-semiotics” explores the innate messaging found in forms, shapes and patterns.

Evidence of these processes can be found in the principles that form numerous common experiences and expressions including efficient styles of neuroplastic stimulation.

The compositional nature of music, song, art, dance and story-telling saturates all cultures throughout time and points clearly to the messaging designs preferred by the human brain.

It is not a coincidence that humans have always, to the best of their abilities, had the urge to create music, song, art, dance and stories and also experience a deep and natural satisfaction in them.

Music, song, art and stories are the ways in which our brains communicate with our brains.

They are evidence of characteristics of what we may call The First Language which, in all likelihood, is shared to some degree by all sentient beings on Earth in some fashion regardless of species.

TERMINOLOGY

The VIZR Compositional Structuring approach is described using as variety of terms which shall be defined below for reference.

These terms and their related applications are derived from a number of areas of science including but not limited to Complex Adaptive Systems (CAS), Chaos Theory, Cybernetics, Dissipative Systems, Psychedelic Information Theory and Connectome Harmonics Theory.

In some cases, the terms are used in accordance with the source theory while in others, they may be used with a somewhat modified and derivative form.

Neuroplastic Change

The brain is capable of various degrees of change throughout the entire life time. The quality and quantity of change is dependent on many factors.

Furthermore, this change can be either positive or negative. Consider the lasting changes as “habits”.

To simplify, there are basically four types of categories of neuroplastic change. Appreciating these types helps very much to consider the varieties of responses considered reasonable when using the VIZR (or performing any activity with the expectation of neuroplastic change):

1) Functional Neuroplastic Change

These changes are in the “easy come, easy go” category of expectation. They are the arousal of pre-existing synaptic patterns that may be underutilized or “dormant” from previous learning. In some cases, they may be thought of as “innate” or “instinctual” and blocked by obstructing adaptive patterns.
These changes can be triggered in very short periods of stimulation – as quick as seconds to minutes. The effects may disappear shortly or be sustained for longer periods if appropriately reinforced.

2) Synaptic Neuroplastic Change

This is a process where existing neurons are connected in new and different patterns. The process can occur over the course of days/weeks and requires reasonable, repeated reinforcements. It is the first step in assembling the building blocks of new habits.

3) Neuronal Neuroplastic Change

This is a process taking place over months and is also called “neurogenesis” in which new nerve bodies and their axonal/dendritic extensions grow to serve new demanded expressions.

4) Systemic Neuroplastic Change

This is a long-term process taking place over the course of a year or more. Here all of the above types of neuroplastic change are incorporated and integrated into the entire global organism/CAS.

Neuroplastic Capacity/Neuroplastic Demand

The degree of stimulation in a VIZR composition considers the capacity of the average person to comfortably integrate the signaling for benefit.

It is reasonable to compare the brain stimulation to either somatic exercise or mental learning.

For example, in somatic exercise, as a trainer, if you cannot lift more than 50 kg., it would be inappropriate for me to have you attempt to train at 100 kg. The “demand” of the exercise ought not to exceed your “capacity”.

In the composition designs, the degree of change (coordination), the complexity of change (flexibility), the rate of change (endurance) and the intensity of change (strength) are all factored into the composition design.

As an estimate, the typical Neuroplastic Demand in a VIZR composition would be equivalent to the Neuroplastic Capacity of an average adult.

In practice, the simplest way for a user to decrease the demand of any VIZR composition is to decrease the light intensity (adjustable in the device) and decrease the volume of the sound (adjustable on the device).

Alternatively, the user may use only a single 11 minute composition in one session and/or limit the number of sessions per week to comfort.

In relation to Capacity/Demand is the subject experience that some users have especially in the beginning of their use.

It is possible for a person to seem to “fall asleep” during even an 11 minute composition.

Of course, real sleep is possible if the user is fatigued from work or other activities such as sleep loss.

However, there is an experience that is more like “checking out” during the session.

If there is no evident fatigue, it is more likely that the user’s Neuroplastic Capacity is lower than they had assessed.

In such cases, the inhibitory dynamics of the brain begin “turning off the circuits” in an action to limit the stimulation.

This results in the pseudo “going to sleep” experience.

There is no harm in such a reaction as it is a natural conservation process in the brain.

There is a limitation on the neuroplastic benefits however as neuroplastic change does require attention and awareness.

Hyperplasticity

When the brain is properly destabilized (see below), it experiences a kind of “appetite” for stability.

Our brain is always trying to make sense of nonsense. It seeks out the signal in the noise. It attempts order in chaos (see below).

This “hunger for order” physiologically is the state of “hyperplasticity”.

It is the best time to introduce new information for neuroplastic change. (I am reminded of the advice to not go food shopping when you are hungry).

All VIZR compositions have designs to create various degrees of hyperplasticity integral to the composition itself.

Most techniques and devices attempt to replace old order with new order with the brain in a “stiffened” or “hardened” neuroplastic condition. This leads to very poor results and low levels of integration.

One could compare the approach to “warming up” before vigorous exercise or activity.

The hyperplastic state resulting from a VIZR composition is naturally sustained for one to two hours after the completion of the session.

During this period, the user is in a heightened and impressionable state for new change. Any positive reinforcements applied during this period will have a greater probability of success.

Minimally, the user should not engage in activities that are contrary to the “vector” (see below) of the composition.

Brain Engagement

In an attempt to clarify the innovative aspects of VIZR neuroplastic signaling designs and intents, I have devised the new term of Brain Engagement.

It is, of course, a spin derivation of the common term of Brain Entrainment.

The original scientific term of Frequency Following Response (FFR) technically describes one feature of brain behavior which is to shift into dominating frequency-based signals from external sources.

It is well known in the experience of foot tapping to music.

Brain Engagement utilizes limited elements from FFR/Brain Entrainment while substantially expanding the signal set designs and purposes.

The principle of “engagement” is especially important when considering promoting neuroplastic effects because such effects demand that the brain be attracted to novelty characteristics in the signal sets as the fundamental trigger of the “attention” state required for the effects.

Complex Adaptive System (CAS)

A CAS is an integrated entity with numerous (innumerable?) elements and components.

The sheer number of components and their fluid interactions move the processes into non-linear dynamics.

A CAS exhibits the impressive and elusive behavior known as “self-regulation” meaning that the determination of reaction response and outcome is the result of mutual, integrated global influences.

A CAS has no “boss”.

Furthermore, a CAS is easily influenced by weak signals that can propagate at lightening speeds throughout the CAS.

Such a responsiveness to weak signaling is a characteristic of a state known as “fragile stability” which may sound negative but is actually evidence of the “open-mindedness” of a CAS to the possibilities of adaptive change – a key to survival.

The human brain, if not the entire human being, is an example of a CAS.

Random

Randomness has received a significant amount of attention over the past decades in a variety of scientific domains.

True randomness is a complete lack of order and pattern.

It is disruptive and destabilizing in nature.

Interestingly, randomness is found to be common by degree in organized systems with high capacity for adaption.

Chaos

Chaos has also been given a great deal of attention of the past few decades in progressive scientific inquiries.

To be clear, “chaos” is not equivalent to “random” as is often mistakenly believed.

In short, “chaos” is a process that has a very high degree complexity and as such cannot be easily tracked or analyzed.

There is “method for the madness” that is difficult to recognize.

Deterministic Chaos

To further explain Chaos, we can appreciate that in highly complex processes, there can be factors that are, in fact, setting the conditions and parameters of the behavior.

These deterministic factors may be found in the “setting” of the behavior or with the “set” of the behavior itself.

Hidden Determinants

As described immediately above, Deterministic Chaos contains elements in the highly complex behavior that maintain a directive influence on the activities.

Such “hidden determinants” act as driving, formative influences within the chaotic behaviors that help move the activity towards a resolution of higher order.

Strange Attractors

A “strange attractor” is a unique factor that is similar to a “hidden determinant” linked to the “setting” of the complex chaotic behavior.

While the “setting hidden determinant” is an element of behavior within the chaotic activity, a “strange attractor” exists outside of the activity while maintaining a strong influence on the activity itself.

As a simple example – imagine a very large bowl – take a smooth metal ball bearing and spin it within the bowl.

The weight and size of the ball, the speed of the ball, the slope of the bowl are all “hidden determinants” in the chaotic behavior of the ball (three or more variables make a linear prediction of the behavior impossible).

However, there is also a powerful additional influence at work here which will act to draw the chaotic behavior towards an ultimate state which is when the behavior activity finally ceases finding the ball resting at the bottom of the bowl – this “strange attractor” (in this simple example) is, of course, gravity.

Core Signaling

The “core” frequency signals are derived from numerous sources found in research over the past many decades.

These brain wave frequencies have been shown to be associated with specific mental aspects of consciousness and are all naturally occurring at various times of days and in various mental/emotional states.

The typical (but oversimplified) categories of Delta, Theta, Alpha and Beta have now been expanded to include Gamma, Lambda and Epsilon as generally related to certain states of consciousness.

The fact is that the brain never functions with only one frequency but instead with groups and sets of frequencies, often times with certain faster frequencies “nested” in other slower frequencies.

Core signals are an element of the VIZR composition and are integrated at various stages of the composition to have optimized effects.

Stability/Instability

A Complex Adaptive System (CAS) is constantly dancing from current “order” to the edges of chaotic “disorder” and back again.

A pulsating shifting from stabile states to unstable states is a common condition of a CAS (and human brain).

Consider, as an example, the ways in which even during sleep, we unconsciously shift and move postures to seek out sustained comfort.

A destabilized state can be triggered by a weak signal allowing the CAS to abandon the now inefficient stable ordered state before it becomes restrictive or obstructive.

It can be thought of an example of “an ounce of prevention being worth a pound of cure”.

Periodic instability is not a bad thing for a CAS – as a matter of fact, it is a necessary aspect of responsive adaption.

Information

In my experience, the two most clear definitions of “information” come from the same person, Gregory Bateson.

Invariably, he described/defined “information” as:

“A difference that makes a difference”
Information is news of change.

The appreciation of the role of information in neuroplastic change in our brain is critical.

The cardinal trigger for neuroplastic change in our brain is ATTENTION.

The experience/event must get the momentary spotlight of awareness hence the shared goal of both pleasure and pain is to “get our attention”.

Intrinsic to both of Bateson’s information definitions is the dynamic of “novelty”.

The experience must “catch our attention”.

This demand of attention plays as a counter weight for our energy/time saving urge for “pattern prediction”.

In common repetitive brain entrainment signaling approaches, the brain rapidly detects the pattern, abandons present attention and slips into a confined trance-like response state.

Linear/Circular

There are two basic design templates for Compositional Structuring: Linear and Circular.

One is obviously more confident, direct and developmental (linear) while the other is more repetitive and reinforcing.

Evidence of these two templates is found in storytelling literature: Prose follows the linear while Poetry follows the circular.

Each approach relies on key compositional developments that fortify the end result which is message communication.

One may extend the dual principle further with some risk and conceive of the linear as being more left brain and the circular being more right brain (although in fact, to not overly localize brain functions, there is much left/right integration in most all brain activities).

Mood Framing

In various devices, music is used as the sound component when signaling the brain.

This is an obvious and natural concept to consider but it does come with limitations and even drawbacks.

The brain, as a “pattern prediction” organ, is especially attracted to “sensible” patterns and its attention will naturally seek to follow the pattern while abandoning alertness.

Consequently, when fully composed music (especially with human voice which engages an additional function in the brain beyond instrumental sounds) is used in accompaniment to light signaling, the tendency is for the brain to sync to the musical arrangement and abandon the light messaging.

In the VIZR compositions, the sound aspects use limited musical phrasing as what is known as “Mood Framing”.

Such Mood Framing induces a particular disposition that aligns with the composition vector while not overpowering the more specific vectored messaging of the core composition.

Hence, although it may seem reasonable to call the sound aspect of a VIZR composition “the music”, it is, in fact, incorrect and diminishes the compositional intent and impact of the design.

Macro/Meso/Micro Signaling

In the new VIZR, there exists the capacity of Macro, Meso and Micro light signaling.

The Macro refers to the general pattern characteristics of the nine LEDs in the visual display unit.

The Meso refers to the tempo “pulsing” or “beat” that harmonizes with the soma/body as a whole and relates to tempos such as heart rate, respiration, peristalsis.

The Micro refers to the flickering frequency characteristics of whatever LEDs are active at any point in time.

The Macro pattern characteristics create a general tendency in the response while the Meso expands the signaling into more of a whole-body experience instead of being confined to the head.

The Micro characteristics act to influence and drive the signaling along a specific probability vector.

For example, in a composition designed to influence the capacity of Sustained Focus, the Macro LED patterning would act to increase a general neurological stimulated state (such a repeated upward rising Macro pattern or perhaps a clockwise circular pattern); meanwhile the Meso pulsing expands to the body and the Micro flickering would be coaxing the brain into a sharpened and sustained focus utilizing brain wave frequency sets known to enhance such a state.

To date, and to the best of my knowledge, no device has ever integrated both Macro, Meso and Micro signaling for enhanced neuroplastic responses in the brain/mind for the human.

Composition Vector

A VIZR composition is designed with a specific neuroplastic goal in mind.

This goal is referred to as the “vector” of the composition.

The word vector is used because it indicates both a direction and momentum.

Examples of composition vectors include:

Deep Tranquility
Less Anxiety
Creative Visualization
Clear Logic

The VIZR composition cannot “make” the brain behave in a particular manner.

Instead, the composition is designed to create a “high probability state” in which the brain has an increased potential for self-creating a learned behavior.

The resulting neuroplastic change will only settle into a lasting state if it is reinforced through daily life.

The simple principle is: “use it or lose it.”

The 11 Minute Magic

All VIZR compositions are 11 minutes in length.

A user can experience a single 11-minute composition or a dynamic 22-minute session consisting of two related compositions sharing the same vector.

The underlying rationale for the 11-minute design is based on the brain’s capacity to sustain a single point of concentration for approximately 10–11 minutes before refreshing its attentional focus.

After approximately 20–22 minutes, the local supply of neurotransmitters involved in sustained concentration becomes depleted and requires time for transport and replenishment.

This is reflected in many familiar forms of human communication and learning, including meditation practices, TED presentations and television programming, which often organize information around sustained periods of attention.

More is not necessarily better.

The goal is to repeat and reinforce the desired experience at reasonable intervals rather than simply increasing the duration of a single exposure.

The principle is essentially “most while doing least.”

Because the brain is a Complex Adaptive System, it is capable of self-regulation and self-organization.

A weak signal can therefore cascade through the system and produce a response that is considerably greater than the apparent strength of the original signal.

This reflects the broader principle that the “Whole is Greater than the Sum.”

Rock Band Analogy

A useful analogy for understanding the integrated nature of a VIZR composition is a four-piece rock band.

The drummer and bass player provide the foundation of the song.

They hold the structure together and establish the underlying rhythm and framing.

In the analogy, these functions are represented by the sound component of the VIZR composition.

The lead guitar and vocalist have greater freedom to elaborate, improvise and move within the structure established by the rhythm section.

These functions are represented by the light component.

Individual tracks may sound unrelated when heard in isolation, yet when combined they form a seamless and coherent experience.

The resulting composition demonstrates the principle that the Whole is Greater than the Sum of the individual components.

Composition Structuring Templates

The following provides a generalized template for the structuring of VIZR compositions.

It provides a limited peek into the protected “secret sauce” of the VIZR compositional intellectual property and, as such, cannot be divulged outside of appropriate contexts.

The fundamental design principle is the parallel integration of Light and Sound.

Sound is not simply “music” and Light is not simply “flicker”.

There are devices that utilize simple flickering light accompanied by soothing music.

There are also devices that pulse light and sound together at the same frequencies.

The VIZR approach is based on a deeper understanding of how the brain predicts patterns and responds to information.

Because neuroplastic change requires attention, the composition must continuously provide sufficient novelty and variation to maintain the brain’s engagement.

The composition therefore functions as a structured story or journey designed to maintain attention while moving through specific signaling conditions.

The template described below is fundamental to the approach.

Actual compositions can expand or contract in terms of timing and degree of stimulation, and the order of elements can be modified creatively while maintaining the underlying principles.

Basic Template

MACRO LIGHT

Intro: Simple central horizontal pattern.
Destabilizing: Repeated left/right passes.
Chaos – reduced instability: Simple grid.
Deterministic Chaos: Gentle dynamics according to the vector.
Core: Basic grid.
Conflict Challenge: Brief left/right passes.
Core Resolution: Grid.
Exit: Simple single horizontal LED set.

MESO LIGHT

Meso BPM: Beats per minute, in contrast to the Hz-based Micro signaling.
Meso Light Pulses: Introduced periodically to enhance the vector/theme. Faster BPM creates greater excitement while slower BPM supports sedation.

MICRO LIGHT

Intro: Low intensity / low frequencies.
Destabilizing: Randomized frequencies with varied intensities.
Chaos: Complex frequency sets with “tampering dynamics”.
Deterministic Chaos: Less complex signaling seeded with core frequencies.
Core: Sets of core frequencies.
Conflict Challenge: Short bursts of random frequency signals.
Core Resolution: Return to the core frequency sets.
Exit: Soften intensity and move toward low/slow frequencies.

SOUND

MACRO – MOOD FRAMING / MICRO CORE FREQUENCIES

Ramping Up Mood Framing: Musical phrasing / ambient sound.
Mood Framing Established: The mood framing becomes established.
Rolling Patterns: Core frequencies are introduced in rolling patterns.
Higher-Demand Layered Core Frequency Patterns: More complex layered core frequency signaling.
Reduce Profile of Core Frequencies: The core frequency signaling is reduced.
Ramp Down Mood Framing: Mood framing gradually reduces for the exit.

Papers

Language

Psychedelic & Altered States - May 29, 2023

Primer on VIZR Psycho-Active Technology: Insights to Support Research & Functional Investigation Efforts