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Alpha waves are a type of brain wave that indicate a relaxed but aware state. Other types include beta, theta, and delta waves, each indicating different brain states. Electrodes measure the brain’s electrical activity, translating it into peaks and troughs. Techniques like meditation, yoga, and positive affirmations can increase alpha waves and promote relaxation.
Alpha waves are a type of brain wave that can be recorded by an electroencephalograph (EEG). A predominance of alpha waves in the brain wave pattern indicates that an individual is in a relaxed but aware state. Other types of brainwaves include beta, theta, and delta waves, each of which indicate a different state of functioning of the brain. In addition to these basic types of brain wave patterns, there are also other electrical signatures generated by the brain such as “bursts” or “melts” that occur briefly.
Nerve endings in the brain generate electrical activity in the form of pulses that can be measured by sensors called electrodes. The electrodes are placed near the scalp and connected to an electroencephalograph. By placing sensors close to the scalp, the machine can record the brain’s electrical pulsations, translating the activity into a reading of peaks and troughs. The height of the peak indicates the amplitude, while the distance between the peaks indicates the frequency.
Starting with the most active brainwave pattern, beta waves indicate alertness. This electrical activity starts at 13Hz and is probably dominant as you read this page. The higher frequencies in this range (26Hz and above) are sometimes further referred to as gamma waves. Agitated emotional states such as fear or anger generate beta waves, as do tasks that require concentration or create anxiety.
Alpha waves have a slower frequency of 8-13Hz, corresponding to a state of relaxation. You are experiencing the alpha state when you allow your mind to drift or fluctuate. You may feel “disoriented” when you’re watching television, sitting in a classroom, at a lecture, or even while driving. Meditation can also produce alpha waves and the alpha pattern plays a significant role in the dream state.
When falling asleep, the Theta pattern predominates at 4-8Hz. This state, often filled with mental imagery, is sometimes referred to as “twilight sleep.” Theta waves may also be predominant during deeper states of meditation.
Finally, delta waves pulse at just 0.5-4Hz, indicating deep, dreamless sleep. Delta waves are also the signature of comatose patients. Interestingly, babies experience a predominance of delta waves when they are awake. In an adult, this may be indicative of illnesses such as schizophrenia, dementia, intoxication, or drug-induced delirium.
In today’s stress-conscious world, the alpha state has received a lot of attention due to its association with relaxation. Some types of alternative medicine promote the intentional change of brain wave pattern to produce calming alpha waves. Simple techniques like closing your eyes and sitting quietly while letting stress “drain” from your body could have the effect of increasing alpha waves and altering your mood.
Self-therapy involving positive affirmations is commonly believed to be most effective when practiced in an alpha state. Such techniques often include listening to calming, tranquil music or sounds of nature as a prelude to affirmations. Other disciplines geared towards increasing alpha waves include meditation, yoga and singing. Creative outlets like painting or playing an instrument could also increase alpha wave activity.
