The brain emits electrical pulses which fall within a band which we can measure with cycles per second. Each of these cycles influence how we function – and at some frequencies or cycles per second of oscillation, we can even start to evolve our own DNA.
Each of us moves in and out of these brain waves states throughout the day. We can describe the brain frequencies in the following way:
BETA 14 – 20 cycles per second. Associated with the physical world. In the beta state we are using our five senses to function in our bodies. Almost everyone is most commonly in this brainwave state. The “beta” voice is that nagging inner critic that is always telling you what you are doing wrong, or why you aren’t measuring up. It’s no wonder that so many of us stay at a constant low-level of stress since we operate primarily in the BETA brainwave state.
ALPHA 7 – 14 cycles per second. This is where the brain wave cycles begin to slow down. This state is associated with intuition and insight. Alpha waves are the gateway to the subconscious mind. When we have an “a-ha” moment or a burst of creative insight it is usually because we’ve allowed our brainwaves to slow enough to trigger the alpha state. (Think of times you catch yourself daydreaming).
Those great ideas that come in the shower are likely due to the slight relaxation of the body and therefore the brain. This state of mind can also reduce depression and help us feel that all is right in the world. Alpha is a dynamic brain space where you can start to create “genius.”
One of the best ways to go into an alpha state is to simply close your eyes. You eliminate about 85 percent of the five-sense stimulation of the beta state in this manner. This is another reason the ancient yogis promoted the practice of ‘pratyahara’ or sense withdrawal, because it immediately places you in a better brain wave state.
At the Alpha-Theta border, from 7Hz to 8Hz, we enter the optimal range for visualization, mind programming, and using the creative power of the mind for positive change.
THETA – 4 to 7 cycles per second. The Theta state is associated with creative visualization, sleep, and the all-important dream state. This is a special state of mind. It is an inductive mode of thinking. You don’t create thoughts, but you may have visions. It is also called the shamanic state, and where most transcendental or out-of-body experiences occur.
Biological or innate intelligence (cellular memory, wisdom without thought) is stored within the theta state. This is also an ideal state for the body to heal itself, because it knows how to function perfectly in this state.
Your most deep-seated beliefs are held within the theta state – so if you want to change them, this is the brain wave frequency which must be attained.
Your amazing powers of creative manifestation also come alive in the theta state. In this state, you are still conscious of your physical surroundings, but you can easily manipulate “reality” for conscious creation.
DELTA .5 to 4 cycles per second. This is the least understood brain wave state. It is where we enter slow-wave sleep, or deep dreaming state of sleep, which may be where the unconscious mind is stored. This is thought to be where we access the universal mind or the divine blueprint (DNA). The delta state is responsible for deep healing. Children are predominantly in the delta state – that’s why they sleep so much to energize and grow their bodies.
GAMMA – anything above 40 cycles per second. This is considered to be the brain’s optimal level of functioning. Feelings of joy and bliss are common in the gamma state. This is the harmonizing frequency which allows us to walk in this world, but not be of this world – it helps us to straddle the spiritual and physical worlds.
Finally, we have EPSILON and LAMBDA. These brain wave states are so rare, you may not have heard of them. These are extremely fast, 200 Hz brainwave frequencies which are seen only in yogis that have achieved a state of “suspended animation.” They have no perceived heartbeat, respiration or pulse, as can be detected by western doctors.
Hyper Gamma and Lambda states those associated with the ability of certain sects of Tibetan monks who can mediate in the Himalayan mountains in sub- zero temperatures with scanty clothing and melt the snow all around them. Fast, gamma rhythms range from 30 to 100 Hz, and may vary in frequency during a response. The 20-100 Hz range we consider here overlaps the beta band (15 to 30 Hz).