A headband which reads and measures the user’s brainwaves has been launched on the consumer market with an integrated brain health application which teaches meditation for US$299 (€220, £178).

Toronto-based tech start-up InteraXon created the device known as Muse, which has six sensors that detect brainwaves from the parts of the brain responsible for speech, critical thought and listening.

“You can listen more carefully to what’s going on inside the brain, understand the relationship between brain activity and emotions and gain more control over your emotional state,” said Ariel Garten, InteraXon’s CEO.

Marketed as a product to help manage stress, the EEG (electroencephalography – electrical neuron-testing technology) headset picks up two types of brainwave in particular. Meditators have higher resting alpha waves, which are ideal for learning and performing complex tasks. The alpha wave frequency is slower than that of the beta wave.

The device rests on the ears like a pair of sunglasses and trains the user how to calm their brain by using computer-guided meditation called neurofeedback in the form of a brain health application called Calm.

The benefits of decreasing brainwave rhythm using meditative techniques are the production of endorphins and dopamine in addition to better memory, attentiveness and empathy.

Muse – which uses a rechargeable battery and is compatible with iOS, Mac and select PC operating systems – was named honouree in the category “Tech for a Better World” at Innovations 2014 Design and Engineering Awards.