Our brain is made of billions of brain cells called neurons, and they communicate with each other by electrical changes. The combination of electrical activity of the brain is commonly called a Brainwave pattern[1]. We can actually see these electrical changes as shown in an EEG (electroencephalogram). Brain waves are measured in cycles per second (Hertz or Hz in short form), the lower the number of Hz, the slower the brain activity or the slower the frequency of the activity.

A healthy person finds that the brain shifts numerous times all through the day between different brain wave patterns. Researchers identified typically 4 types of brain waves; they are alpha brain waves, delta brain waves, beta brain waves, and theta brain waves. These waves are active most of the time in the brain. On the other hand, one is usually more dominant than other brain waves.

 

Alpha Brain Wave

Alpha waves (7-13 Hz): Alpha is ‘the power of now’, a state when you are relaxed, calm, or in a meditative condition. This is a state when you are daydreaming or when you are sleeping quietly. This is also the state when your mind pictures the thing you want to obtain in life. This is a state where endorphins and serotonin are released from the brain. These are happy hormones that are important to keep the mind relaxed and calm. Alpha waves initiate mind and body integration and learning.

Beta Brain Waves

Beta waves (13-60 Hz): occur when we are alert, attentive, actively thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving. Beta brainwaves dominate our normal waking state of consciousness. There are two types of beta brain waves, low and high brain waves. Low Beta brain waves are important as they will help you enhance your concentration, focus, and alertness. In this state, the brain releases dopamine hormone. High beta brain waves are a state where you experience panic attacks, nervousness, anxiety, and stress. This is where the brain releases adrenaline. Too much amount of high beta brain waves is not good for your health.

Theta Brain Waves

Theta waves (4-7 Hz): Theta brainwaves occur most often in reduced consciousness, sleep, deep relaxation, such as hypnotic relaxation and meditation, and visualization. It brings us to vivid imagery, intuition, and information beyond our normal conscious awareness. Theta brain waves are applicable of enhancing one’s creativity as they help to release endorphins, serotonin, and human growth hormones.

Delta Brain Waves

Delta waves (below 4Hz): Delta brainwaves are the slowest brainwaves. They are generated in unconsciousness, deepest meditation, or deep sleep. At this point, the brain is releasing human growth hormones and other hormones. Healing and regeneration are stimulated in this state.

References
  1. http://www.doctorhugo.org/brainwaves/brainwaves.html