Our brains are continually working, even when someone says they're thinking of nothing. As a demonstration, for the next 10 seconds, do NOT think of elephants by try to think of nothing. It is likely that you tried to clear your mind but the thought of elephants kept creeping in, perhaps you even visualized one.
The reality is that our brain are constantly thinking, even when we're sleeping. If our brains were truly inactive we would be considered brain-dead. Brain activity can actually be measured; that is to say that brainwave activity can be measured.
HERTZ
Brainwaves are minute electrical signals that are emitted as electrochemical junctions in the brain are rapidly open and closed in the order of a million times per second. Theses brainwave signals are very weak but they can be measured using a device called an electroencephalograph (EEG). It has been suggested that if telepathic people truly exist then perhaps they have an unusual sensitivity to detect other people's brainwave activity.
At any given time, a person's brainwave activity will appear similar from moment to moment. In other words, the pattern of brainwave activity from an EEG machine will show a generally consistent rhythm. Over time, however, the frequency of the brainwaves may change.
There are four generally accepted brainwave patterns: beta, alpha, theta and delta. The main differentiating characteristic is the frequency.
In our most alert and analytical state, our brains operate in the beta range. This corresponds to the highest frequency range of between 14 to 30 cycles per second (Hertz).
The next pattern is the alpha state and represents a relaxed mind. This state corresponds to activity such as day-dreaming or even a rhythmic physical activity where the mind remains in a relaxed state. This corresponds to the frequency range of between 9 to 13 Hertz.
The third pattern is known as the theta state and corresponds to a state of drowsiness, creativity, visualization and near-sleep. This occurs in the frequency range of between 4 to 8 Hertz.
The final state is called the delta state with a frequency range of between 1 to 3 Hertz. In this range, most people are asleep. Some experienced meditators can apparently remain aware during this state and describe this state as profoundly tranquil.
Understanding this variation of brainwave activity can help us understand and deal with some of our day-to-day problems, such as difficulty falling asleep. For example, if you go to bed with an active mind or pressing concerns, then your brainwave activity will likely remain higher for a longer period of time. This can lead to difficulty falling asleep. Understanding this helps us develop a strategy to fall asleep more readily. Therefore, if you find that you have difficulty falling asleep because your mind is too active and simple relaxation techniques have been ineffective, then you could try playing a repetitive and relaxing sound, such as the sound of a gentle rain shower or ocean surf. Such sound machines are readily available and often look like a regular clock radio, except that they offer several different relaxing sounds that can be set on a timer so that machine will turn itself off after you have hopefully fallen asleep.
The opposite can also be achieved. For example, if you are feeling lethargic then playing some faster tempo inspiring music can give us a feeling of increased alertness and energy.
Therefore, understanding that the brain is constantly thinking and having an appreciation its operational brainwave ranges can help us understand how we perform at various states of consciousness and how we can influence our state of consciousness and therefore our performance.
Brainwave Patterns and Consciousness
Mark is passionate about fitness, health and related products. His recent web site at http://www.homedicssoundmachine.com/ includes a review of the features and benefits of using a sound machine alarm clock.
HERTZ
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