Cranio-Electrical Stimulation (CES) might sound like a complicated medical procedure, but it's actually a simple and non-invasive technique that involves applying a small pulsed electric current across a person's head (usually through both ear lobes). The goal of CES is to stimulate the production of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, specifically endorphins, serotonin, and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters are essential for our physical and mental wellbeing, and CES has been shown to have numerous benefits in improving our mood, reducing anxiety and pain, and even boosting our cognitive abilities.
The history of electrical stimulation dates back to ancient times, with the Greeks and Romans using the electric eel for therapeutic purposes. In the first century, it was recorded that placing a live torpedo fish under the feet of a person suffering from gout could ease their pain. Similarly, placing these fish on people's foreheads was used to treat headaches. While these methods may seem primitive, they were the predecessors to modern day CES.
The interest in CES was reignited in the early 20th century when Robinovitch claimed that electrical treatment could help with insomnia. However, it wasn't until the 1950s that serious research was conducted on CES, with the invention of smaller and more reliable devices. By the 1970s, several companies were manufacturing CES devices for public use, and studies on its effectiveness were published.
Research on CES has primarily focused on its ability to reduce anxiety and improve cognition in recovering alcoholics. However, it has also been found to be effective in reducing situational anxiety, such as during a dental appointment or an exam. The effects of CES at various frequencies are still being studied, but both low and high frequencies have been found to be effective in improving learning and reducing anxiety and pain.
Additionally, many people who have used CES along with Audio-Visual Entrainment (AVE) have reported deeper relaxation for prolonged periods of time. CES also increases neurotransmitter production, which is necessary for information processing, memory, energy level, and physical well-being. Thus, CES has the potential to improve our overall quality of life.
CES is a safe and effective technique that has been shown to have numerous benefits for our physical and mental wellbeing. While research on CES is still ongoing, the results so far have been promising. So, if you're looking for a non-invasive and drug-free way to reduce anxiety, improve cognition, and enhance relaxation, CES might be worth considering.
The following is a presentation by Dave Siever on "Physiology and Clinical Applications of Cranio-Electro Stimulation (CES)"
In the following video, Dave discusses Cranio-Electro Stimulation devices.
For more information on CES, you can read Dave Siever's article here.