subject: How To Take Advantage Of Your Brainwaves For Heightened Relaxation And Better Memory Retention [print this page] How To Take Advantage Of Your Brainwaves For Heightened Relaxation And Better Memory Retention
Our brains function differently at different points of the day and at different levels of electric potential or "wave lengths". Depending on the wave length or level of frequency our minds can either experience heightened relaxation, creativity, or heightened potential for active concentration.
First, let's look at the four stages of brain wave activity and the electrical "charge" levels that have been scientifically measured and detected with an electroencephalograph. These brainwave "charges" or expressed electrical outputs range from 7 Hz- 40Hz. Each electrical output range corresponds with a specific state of mental cognition and relaxation. The following briefly outlines brainwave activity with corresponding "states of mind".
Starting at the lowest and least electrically charged state of mind at 7Hz or below, are both Theta and Delta Brainwaves. These are typically levels that are acquired when a person is asleep or in a very deep meditation.
When the brainwave or electrical outputs are increased slightly, say 7-13 Hz, this range of brainwave activity is called the Alpha state. This is when a person has woken up, and the body is relaxed and the mind is least distracted. It has often been associated with those times we have the "aha" moment, or when questions that bothered us the night before are instantly, and miraculously solved.
At 13-30 Hz, the brainwave activity is corresponding to what is called the Beta state of mind. This is usually the time when we are either at work, school or taking care of daily activities that incorporate contemplation, and deliberate concentration.
Finally, at the highest range is Gamma coming in at 30-100Hz. Having high amounts of Gamma Brainwave activity has been associated with having high levels of intelligence, being compassionate, having high amounts of self-control, and feelings of natural happiness.
Gamma Brain Waves have also been linked to having a great memory and an increased perception of reality. On the down side, people lacking in gamma brainwaves tend to experience difficulties with learning and mental processing.
Cultivating brainwave flexibility by learning to access to other brainwave states of awareness is a great and natural way to boost mental processing, increase learning, and encourage relaxation of mind and body. For example, want to experience a boost in mental processing speed? Learn how to access and calibrate your brainwaves to reach the Gamma state. Want to feel less stressed or overwhelmed? Get access to and practice those methods that bring you to a state of Alpha Brainwave activity.
