Brain wave

Brain wave or brainwave refers to the patterns of neuron activity in the cortex of the brain, which signal the state of a person's consciousness and focus. The four primary brain waves include alpha, beta, delta, and theta waves.

Overview

Brain waves are produced by synchronized electrical pulses from masses of neurons communicating with each other. They are divided into bandwidths to describe their functions but are best thought of as a continuous spectrum of consciousness.

Types of Brain Waves

Alpha Waves

Alpha waves are the frequency range from 8 Hz to 12 Hz. They are present in the posterior regions of the head, both when the eyes are closed and during relaxation.

Beta Waves

Beta waves are the frequency range from 12 Hz to 30 Hz. They are associated with normal waking consciousness and a heightened state of alertness, logic, and critical reasoning.

Delta Waves

Delta waves are the slowest of all, ranging from 0.5 Hz to 4 Hz. They are present during deep meditation and dreamless sleep.

Theta Waves

Theta waves are the frequency range from 4 Hz to 8 Hz. Theta is present during deep meditation and light sleep, including the REM dream state.

Brain Wave and Consciousness

The brain's state can change from one moment to the next, depending on what we are doing and what our goals are. For example, if we are in a state of focused concentration, the brain is likely to be generating beta waves. If we are in a state of deep relaxation, the brain is likely to be producing alpha waves.

Brain Wave Entrainment

Brainwave entrainment is a method to stimulate the brain into entering a specific state by using a pulsing sound, light, or electromagnetic field. The pulses elicit the brain's 'frequency following' response, encouraging the brain waves to align to the frequency of a given beat.

See Also

• Electroencephalography
• Neuroscience
• Cognitive science