Have you ever wondered how your brain works when you're awake or asleep? The answer lies in brainwaves, which are rhythmic or repetitive neural activity in the brain. Brainwaves can be measured through an Electroencephalogram (EEG), a non-invasive test that measures electrical activity along the scalp. Brainwaves can be categorised into different frequencies, and each frequency has different effects on your mental and physical wellbeing.
Brainwaves can indicate the level and type of arousal in a particular part of the brain. When you're awake and engaged in a task, delta, theta, and alpha activity should be low, and beta becomes the dominant wave. As you relax, alpha quickly increases, and beta decreases. When you're deeply relaxed, especially with your eyes closed, theta becomes the dominant brainwave, and when you fall asleep, delta takes over as the predominant brainwave, with occasional short bursts of sensory-motor rhythm (SMR) in the sensory-motor strip to prevent sleepwalking.
Brainwaves are situation-specific. This means that any brainwave can be either beneficial or detrimental to the activity you're trying to engage in. Stress, a hectic lifestyle, and a suboptimal diet can suppress relaxing brainwaves. Likewise, when you're tired during the day, the brainwaves that are essential for mental performance, are suppressed. If your brain is making the wrong frequency for a given situation, it can negatively affect your ability to succeed in the task at hand. The brain needs to be flexible with the various activities you engage in.
Beta Waves have a frequency of 14-40 Hz (waves per second) and are generated when the brain is in an active and alert state. They are associated with concentration, focus, and problem-solving. Beta waves are the most dominant brain waves when we are awake and engaged in mental activities.
Alpha Waves have a frequency of 8-13 Hz and are generated when the brain is in a relaxed but awake state, e.g. when sitting down with your eyes closed. They are associated with a calm and peaceful mind and are often observed during meditation or mindfulness practices. Alpha waves are also associated with creativity, and they can enhance visualisation and imagination. It is said that some creative geniuses (such as Albert Einstein) lived in a semi-permanent state of Alpha.
Alpha/Theta Border waves have a frequency range between 7-8 Hz and are generated when the brain is in a state of deep relaxation. They are often observed during hypnosis or guided imagery, and they are associated with accessing the subconscious mind. These waves include the Schumann Resonance and the State Five Meditation sessions.
Theta Waves have a frequency of 4-8 Hz and are generated when the brain is in a state of deep relaxation or light sleep. They occur during hypnogogic states, dreaming and REM sleep. They are associated with deep meditation, visualisation, and creativity. Theta waves are also associated with access to the subconscious mind and can be used to reprogram negative thought patterns or beliefs.
Delta Waves have a frequency of less than 4 Hz and are generated when the brain is in a deep sleep state. They are associated with rest and rejuvenation, and they are essential for repairing and maintaining the body. Delta waves can also be observed during deep meditation or trance-like states.
Understanding the different types of brain waves and their associated states can help us to better understand our mental and physical health. By learning to control our brain waves through practices such as meditation or biofeedback (e.g. with the DAVID devices), we can improve our focus, creativity, and overall well-being. It is important to note that while brain wave patterns are associated with certain states, they are not necessarily indicative of specific mental or emotional conditions.
