iLS Sound Therapy
Ron Minson, M.D. & Edward Hallowell, M.D.:
“How Integrated Listening Systems (iLs) Works”
At first glance, it appears as if our ears, our eyes and inner ear (balance) work independently – and that they have their own discreet neurological pathways that co-ordinate, or manage, each individual function.
This couldn’t be farther from the truth. Each of these three systems talks to and receives information from the other two systems at all times. The elaborate communication system between these three major senses must be coordinated smoothly and efficiently for optimal functioning to occur. This communication is achieved through what is called an integrated system: auditory, visual and vestibular (balance).
Sound Therapy uses various high and low frequencies filtered through specially designed music to physically reactivate the muscles and neurology of the ear. We use the premier Integrated Listening Systems (iLS) products producing a restorative effect on the brain and nervous system by stimulating and enhancing ear function. iLS Sound Therapy improves many ear related and neurological conditions (Attention, Learning, Reading, Sensory Integration, PDD) not addressed by other means.
“Our daughter Annie, age 9, was slow to develop and had learning problems from the beginning. She had always been in Special Ed, but thought we should try listening therapy as we had personal friends suggesting it. After just one month of sessions, we started noticing Annie’s changes. Her eye contact improved, she seemed to be more 'with it' and her mood was generally improved. We thought it might just be temporary and were afraid to believe our hopes. In time we saw significant improvement in articulation, communication (both verbal and non-verbal), and balance and coordination. She has shown great progress in balance and rhythm. Over a year has passed since she completed the program and all of these changes have remained in place. This has changed our daughter’s life, and ours as well.” -Sincerely, J. Kauer
What is iLS?
Integrated Listening Systems builds on the work of respected leaders in these fields, such as ear, nose and throat (ENT) physician Alfred A. Tomatis, M.D. (1920-2001). Among other discoveries, Dr. Tomatis helped identify the relationship between certain sound frequencies and their effect on functions of the mind and body. Building upon the psychoacoustic techniques originally developed in Europe by Dr. Tomatis and further refined over the past 8 years in the U.S. by Dynamic Listening Systems (DLS), iLs programs combine auditory stimulation with balance, movement and visual motor activities. The design of iLs programs is based around the listening component. A simplified explanation of Dr. Tomatis’ findings shows that certain bands, or zones, of sound frequencies affect different abilities. Each product has a specific listening schedule, into which the balance and visual activities are included. These “integrating” activities comprise 15-20 minutes of each listening session, and are explained in a Playbook which accompanies each product.