Subjective benefit is still an experience
If a quiet routine helps someone settle into work, that experience can be useful even when the mechanism is uncertain. The mistake is moving from “I felt more focused” to “the audio cleared brain waste” without a controlled test.
Why expectations matter
Marketing language, scientific imagery, price, and the act of taking time out can all shape what a listener notices. Sleep, stress, caffeine, task difficulty, and time of day matter too.
A fair personal test
Use a repeatable task, keep notes brief, and avoid changing several habits at once. Treat the result as a personal observation, not as a clinical finding. If the routine is uncomfortable or adds anxiety, there is no reason to continue.