A sound is heard on the left, then on the right. With headphones, this alternation is clearly perceptible in bilateral music. But what are you actually hearing: music for relaxation, a component of EMDR, or the entire method itself? For Thomas Buhl’s approach to EMDR self-coaching, this distinction is crucial: an alternating stimulus alone is no substitute for a structured process.
In his documented practice, Thomas prefers correctly executed rapid eye movements. Music with left-right impulses therefore plays a different role than visual stimulation in his approach. This practical stance does not represent a general scientific ranking of the sensory channels. However, it helps to distinguish more precisely what an audio offering achieves and which expectations go beyond that.
What is bilateral music?
In bilateral music, individual sound components or acoustic impulses move back and forth between the left and right stereo channels. Unlike in conventional stereo panning, this movement is a deliberate compositional element. Depending on the production, it may be clearly audible or embedded within the music.
The terms “EMDR music” and “bilateral music” are often used interchangeably. To be more precise: Bilateral music provides alternating auditory stimulation. EMDR is a structured, multi-phase psychotherapeutic approach in which bilateral stimulation may be one component. The title of a piece of music does not indicate whether it is used to treat symptoms.
Listen to music, follow the visuals, explore a theme
In his book and video tutorial on self-coaching in six steps, Thomas Buhl combines a chosen everyday topic with thoughts, feelings, physical sensations (if applicable), and bilateral stimulation. Simply playing music does not replicate the process he has developed. Anyone who wants to apply EMDR on their own will need the complete instructions; this approach is intended exclusively for non-pathological conditions.
Even a single sound can serve different purposes: In bilateral music, the auditory stimulus alternates between sides. In Thomas’s tutorial, on the other hand, a metronome can set the rhythm for eye movements between two outer fixation points. You’ll hear a metronome while your eyes move from side to side. This is different from simply listening to a music recording.
For the visual execution, Thomas emphasizes regular eye shifts, pace, rhythm, sufficient horizontal movement, and a steady head. External technical gaze guidance can be helpful, but it is not a requirement. Using two fixed points with an auditory metronome is also an option. The REMSTIM glasses are a technical aid he developed for guided eye movements; they are neither the method itself nor proof of its superiority. Further details are explained in the tutorial on eye movements, techniques, and aids.
Why are headphones important?
Separate stereo channels make the difference in sound between the left and right ears clearly noticeable. When played through smartphone speakers, a mono speaker, or over a long distance, the channels blend together. The intended difference in sound may then be diminished or disappear.
The volume should be comfortable and gentle on your ears. Turning up the volume won’t make the experience any better. Also, don’t use headphones in situations where they might distract you from traffic, machinery, or other hazards.
How does bilateral music differ from relaxation music?
Relaxation music is experienced through tempo, harmony, timbre, personal preferences, and memories. Bilateral music involves a spatial shift between the left and right sides. Both can work together. A sense of calm can stem from the music, the surroundings, a pause, or alternating stimuli; the pleasant feeling alone does not reveal the cause.
A concrete example is REMSTIM’s own music production, “Feel Like Eden,” which features six songs, embedded stereo pulses, and a tempo of 60 beats per minute. That describes the musical composition. It does not mean that this tempo corresponds to your individual resting heart rate or that it automatically regulates your body and mind. Even offering our own music is not independent proof of effectiveness.
What does the research say about bilateral auditory stimulation?
The NICE guideline identifies sounds as a possible bilateral alternative within a full EMDR treatment if they are preferred or more appropriate. It also recommends a validated manual, a phase-based treatment approach, and trained professionals. This does not constitute evidence of efficacy for any musical pieces outside of this framework.
An experimental study by van den Hout and colleagues compared alternating tones and eye movements. In healthy participants, both reduced the perceived vividness of negative memories, with eye movements having a stronger effect. In the accompanying working memory experiments, eye movements also placed a greater demand on working memory. This does not imply either a general clinical superiority or that a specific music track treats symptoms.
A systematic review of EMDR mechanisms discusses various explanatory models and the need for further research. It does not examine the effectiveness of “Feel Like Eden.” For your reference, therefore, three distinct levels should be kept separate: an auditory stimulus, a complete treatment protocol, and evidence of a specific effect.
What are some useful applications of bilateral music?
It can be used as a conscious listening experience, as part of a guided exercise, or within a professionally supervised process. Some people enjoy the shifting spatial focus, while others find it distracting. It makes sense to pay attention to your actual reaction rather than expecting or forcing deep relaxation.
For low-stress everyday issues, music can help create a calm environment. It is not a substitute for a learned self-help routine or professional support. As soon as traumatic memories, intense anxiety, dissociation, or emotional overwhelm come into play, an audio resource alone is not sufficient to provide a safe environment.
For more information on the different sensory channels, see the overview page on bilateral stimulation.
Listening Safely: What to Look Out For
- Listen only in a safe environment; do not listen while driving or operating machinery.
- Select a comfortable volume level that is easy on the ears.
- Observe with neutral curiosity, rather than trying to force a specific reaction.
- If you experience dizziness, discomfort, increasing exertion, or feeling overwhelmed, stop immediately.
- Don’t try to process deeply distressing memories on your own using just an audio program.
Frequently asked questions
Does bilateral music work without headphones?
Music is audible, but the distinct left-right alternation can be lost. For the bilateral stereo effect, headphones are usually the more reliable option.
Is bilateral music a form of therapy?
No. A music track is neither a diagnostic tool nor psychotherapy. It can serve as an auditory element within a broader, responsible framework.
Can bilateral music have side effects?
Music and changing stimuli can be experienced as unpleasant, stimulating, or emotionally unsettling. The appropriate response in such cases is not to “persevere,” but to stop and assess the situation.
Is bilateral music better than visual stimulation?
There is no established general ranking. The sensory channel, goal, compatibility, and context vary. Thomas prefers rapid eye movements in his own approach. During a treatment session, a professional works with the patient to determine which method is appropriate.
Sources
- Thomas Buhl: A 6-Step Guide to EMDR Self-Coaching, Version 10.8; video tutorial, Module 3 on performing the eye movements.
- NICE: EMDR and Alternative Bilateral Stimuli
- van den Hout et al.: Eye Movements and Changing Tones
- Systematic Review of EMDR Mechanisms
