Why take breaks between sessions?

Just as the brain needs intensive, repeated stimulation, it also needs periods without stimulation to build and consolidate change. This rule applies to any kind of training: the building happens after the effort, during a phase that looks passive but is in fact a phase of integration.

Stimulation disturbs the body, so we have to give it periods of rest during which this integration takes place. That is why the rule is to start with a 15-day session of 2 hours of auditory stimulation a day with the electronic ear, followed by further 8-day sessions, usually few in number; the aim of the Tomatis® method is always to bring the person to the greatest possible independence as quickly as possible. The first 2 sessions are 3 to 4 weeks apart, then there are 2 to 3 months between the 2nd and 3rd, and 6 months between the 3rd and a possible 4th session.

How the brain learns

The brain learns by forming connections, or synapses, between neurons. These connections are strengthened or weakened by a process called synaptic plasticity, which allows the brain to adapt to new information and experiences. Information is stored in these connections and in the patterns of activity that occur in networks of neurons.

The brain also needs breaks to rest and consolidate its memories. During a break, the brain replays and reinforces the neural activity that took place during the task, which helps to consolidate what has been learnt. Breaks also allow the brain to clear metabolic waste and restore its energy levels, which matters for keeping cognitive functions working well.