Waves of the Human Brain
28 Nov 2022 HYN Himalayan Yoga Academy
Every substance in the universe vibrates differently. Similarly to this, every portion of the body vibrates. Every component of the body vibrates in a unique beat. Brain waves are the specific set of waves that the brain produces. At the foundational level of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, neurons in the brain communicate with one another. Brain waves are produced when electrical pulses from the bulk of neurons are synchronized through this communication. Our daily actions and experiences in the world are inextricably linked to our brainwave profile. When brainwaves are out of whack, accompanying psychological issues start to show up. Over-arousal of the brainwave occurs when we face sleep issues, any type of psychological disorder, nightmares, anxiety disorders, hypertension, impulsive behavior, hypervigilance, chronic nerve pain, annoyed depression, etc.
There happens under arousal of brain waves when there is typical depression, insomnia, severe pain, attention deficit disorder, etc. Bipolar disorder, narcolepsy, fulminating behavior, hysteria, offensive behavior, loss of appetite, migraine, falling sickness, breathing problems when sleeping, giddiness, tinnitus, diabetes, premenstrual tension, low blood sugar levels, etc. can all cause instability of brain waves at times.
The five different types of brainwave frequencies—Beta, Alpha, Theta, Delta, and Gamma—have been described by neuroscience. With the use of sensors mounted on the skull, these brain waves can be identified. The functions of the various bandwidths that make up brain waves are described. The brain waves fluctuate in response to our actions and emotions. Slower brain waves are more prevalent, sluggish, or drowsy when we are exhausted.
Division of Human Brain Waves :
When we are engaged or hyperalert, higher-frequency brainwaves become more prominent. The speed of brain waves is expressed in Hertz (which means cycles per second). It is divided into numerous bands depending on how fast, moderately, and slowly the waves bend.
The Infra-low (0.5 Hertz): is the slowest wave in the brain, also known as Slow Cortical Potentials. Only a few facts about these waves are known because of their slow movement. Additionally, it has been challenging to locate an accurate measurement. The primary cortical rhythms are thought to be infra-low brainwaves. This wave plays a crucial role in the timing and network functionality of the brain.
The delta wave (0.5 to 3 HZ): After infra-low waves, the delta wave is the second-slowest wave. The delta brainwave is present during the deepest stages of deep and dreamless sleep as well as deep meditation. Parapsychology originates at the delta level, where external consciousness is suppressed. Delta is the domain of the unconscious mind, the entrance to the universal mind, and the repository of knowledge that the conscious mind is unable to comprehend. At the delta level, regeneration and healing are available through the level of the mind. Therefore, getting plenty of sleep and practicing meditation are thought to be crucial.
Theta (3 to 8 HZ): Deep meditation and regular sleep frequently produce theta brain waves. Theta, the subconscious mind’s domain, is referred to as the twilight stage since it only briefly manifests as you transition from alpha to sleep and awaken from a deep slumber ( from the delta). The voice of Theta is silent.
Alpha Wave (8-12 HZ): When you are deeply relaxed with your eyes closed, daydreaming, having quiet, flowing thoughts, or in some meditative state, your brain is working on the alpha wave. Everything that is programmed in this stage succeeds. Memory, learning, vision, imagination, and focus are all improved by alpha waves. Alpha, which sits at the intersection of the conscious and subconscious minds, communicates through intuition.
Beta (12–38 Hz): The usual walking level of consciousness is associated with the beta brainwave. When we pay close attention to cognitive tasks like logic, critical reasoning, problem-solving, judgment, and awareness, this wave becomes prominent. Beta is a quick-acting substance that is crucial to daily tasks. A larger level of beta is generated during times of stress, anxiety, and restlessness. Beta brainwaves are separated into three bands: Lo-beta (Beta 1, 12-15Hz when fasting or idling), Beta (Beta 2, 15-22Hz during high engagement or activity), and Hi-Beta (Beta 3, 24-30Hz during alertness or activity) (Beta 3, 22-38Hz involving new experiment, intricate thoughts, high excitement or anxiety). Continuous high-frequency processing is harmful to one’s health because it requires a significant amount of energy to produce the Beta wave.
Gamma (38–42 HZ): In a person, gamma brain waves are the fastest, highest frequency (like a flute), and lowest amplitude cerebral oscillations. When multiple brain regions are processing information concurrently, a gamma wave is present. Gamma wave information transfer is sluggish and quiet in nature. Researchers have discovered that it is associated with a “sense of blessing” and is particularly strong when a person is practicing bigger virtues like generosity or universal love. Gamma is more prevalent when prolonged consciousness and spiritual ascent occur. Gamma wave activity is inversely correlated with learning difficulties, memory issues, and impaired mental function.
Peak achievements are brought on by high Gamma activity. Gamma brainwave production is reported to be above average in successful people, high achievers, great sports, and talented musicians, among others. Gamma activity is said to be increased through practices like meditation and focusing on compassion and love, among other things. The generation of excessive Gamma is a natural state of awareness for some people, such as exceptional athletes. Gamma brain waves and gamma rays are sometimes misunderstood. They are distinct from one another. The strongest waves in electromagnetic expansion are gamma rays. It is typically produced by lightning and nuclear explosions on Earth. Gamma Rays and gamma brain waves are only similar in that they have an abnormally high frequency and tiny amplitude.
Shifting and harmonizing the brain waves:
There are various techniques for adjusting and harmonizing the brain waves. The brain waves are changed by any process that alters perception. For instance, there is a certain brain wave that occurs when you are happy; you then unexpectedly receive unpleasant news. Your attitude has now changed, which has caused your brainwaves to shift.
It has been usual for chemicals, pharmaceuticals, medications, or recreational drugs to alter brain function. In the East, several spiritual and yogic activities, including meditation, have been used to change brainwaves (changing the beliefs and opinions of the mind).