"Alpha Brainwaves add images and visuals; you could view this as escape from reality. Too much alpha activity leads to excessive escapes and too many daydreams. Too little makes us human machines:– in motion, but without dreams that direct. ‘Just right,’ adds perfect porridge bowls balanced for healthier lives."

Article 'Brainwaves that Talk Back' by Ellen Weber (PDF, 1.3 MB)

"Our brain uses its 8 13 cycles per second Alpha waves to idle itself, to rest areas not actively processing and acting on incoming sensory and motor information. While this idling is a normal and favorable phenomenon for the idling brain, if Alpha wave activity becomes 'locked' and inhibited, active participation of vital brain areas cannot occur with efficiency."

Crossroads Institute: QEEG Brain Mapping and Neurometrics

“The second type of wave and I should say the most widely known and publicized is the Alpha wave. Most people equate this wave with ESP, meditation, and all sorts of strange ideas.

The truth is the alpha waves account for only half the story. Alpha ranges between 7-12 hertz and is prominent during relaxation mostly with eyes closed, day dreaming, and upon deep self-introspection.

The 1960's made this activity famous when it was found out that cannabis or marijuana, which grew naturally, induced this state in people [Note: I do not advocate drug use]. Scientist have found out that it was the chemical THC that caused this euphoric feeling by being a substitute for the brain's natural pleasure chemicals which are called endorphins.”

'Brain Activity' by Terrance A. Bastian

Low Alpha Waves

Low Alpha Waves: Causes: Radiant Light

"While watching television, the brain appears to slow to a halt, registering low alpha wave readings on the EEG. This is caused by the radiant light produced by cathode ray technology [CRT, LCDs also?] within the television set [increases serotonin levels?]. Even if you're reading text on a television screen the brain registers low levels of activity. Once again, regardless of the content being presented, television essentially turns off your nervous system."

Television: Opiate of the Masses

"Psychophysiologist Thomas Mulholland found that after just 30 seconds of watching television the brain begins to produce alpha waves, which indicates torpid (almost comatose) [slow] rates of activity. Alpha brain waves are associated with unfocused, overly receptive states of consciousness. A high frequency alpha waves [sic] does not occur normally when the eyes are open. In fact, Mulholland’s research implies that watching television is neurologically analogous to staring at a blank wall.

I should note that the goal of hypnotists is to induce slow brain wave states. Alpha waves are present during the 'light hypnotic' state used by hypno-therapists for suggestion therapy."

Television: Opiate of the Masses

Telly Addicts

“Radiant light, the light of [CRT] cathode ray technology [LCD fluorescent backlights also emit light], produces a dramatic downscaling of all brain activity associated with high energy, alert, healthy, disequilibrium [the term disequilibrium is used here to describe the flexibility of brainwave states?]. Television and VDT [video display terminal] viewing take from the brain the best features of its highest non-passive functioning.

McLuhan Studies: Issue 3: Chaos and the Meaning of Electric Culture

· “Acoustic work, like composition from memory,

· Silent reading [should say ‘out loud’ instead of silent?], and

· Mental arithmetic

all require and induce the faster brain wave production.”

McLuhan Studies: Issue 3: Chaos and the Meaning of Electric Culture

“Literate activity,

· Reading,

· Writing and

· Talking carefully,

are activities that provide a sufficiently chaotic base to experience--that there is always the tendency for these activities to complexify [increase activity in the frontal lobes] further and speed up the brain.”

McLuhan Studies: Issue 3: Chaos and the Meaning of Electric Culture

“Activities such as

· Reading a televised text,

· Watching TV,

· Watching a televised interview,

are all noticeably downscale in the range of the slowest and least chaotic of brain wave activity (cf. Emery 627).”

McLuhan Studies: Issue 3: Chaos and the Meaning of Electric Culture

“The Emerys conclude, with impressive neuro-physiological evidence to back their claims concerning the function of Theta waves, that television is ‘a maladaptive technology,’ a technology that injures the health of the user. They set up a set of conditions showing the relationship between high Theta presence and low brain wave response in the situation of TV use…”

McLuhan Studies: Issue 3: Chaos and the Meaning of Electric Culture

Related Topics:

· The Brain: Frontal Lobes

· Vision: Binocular Functions: Light Sensitivity

Additional Information:

· Sondra's Lair: Essays: 'Programming Young Minds: Effects of Television on the Developing Brain'

Low Alpha Waves: Causes: Positive Ions

· Indoor Air Pollution: Ions: Effects: Effects on the Brain: Brainwaves

Synchronous Alpha

· Research Topics: Open Focus Therapy

· Vision: Bates Method: Palming and Visualization

Theta Brainwaves

What are Theta Brainwaves?

"Theta activity is defined by international Federation of Electrophysiology and Clinical Neurophysiology as a frequency band of 4-8 Hz [not mHz]."

Journal of Neurotherapy: Theta: Don’t Tread on Me

"Theta Brainwaves engage inner and intuitive subconscious. You’ll find theta in places where you hold memories, sensations and emotions. Sometimes, we also store secrets there, which we block out in times of pain, to survive what we feel unprepared to fix."

'Brainwaves that Talk Back' by Ellen Weber (PDF, 1.3 MB)

“The next wave activity is the Theta region and is the least known type, outside the confines of the dream research laboratories.

This wave is in the range of 5-8 hertz and is characterized mainly with light sleep, Rapid Eye Movement (REM) dreams, and hallucinations.

The brain uses this state to exercise itself, somewhat like working out your muscles to make them stronger and to release overall tension. The drugs that promote this activity are, on the whole, illegal [Note: I do not advocate drug use]. These substances are in the general category of hallucinogens…”

'Brain Activity' by Terrance A. Bastian

Types

"As is well recognized, however, various subsets exist in all EEG frequency bands; Theta is no exception."

Journal of Neurotherapy: Theta: Don’t Tread on Me

Types: Frontal Midline Theta (Fmθ)

"Subset 1: Frontal Midline Theta (Fm Theta) is a specific EEG frequency seen in those subjects actively engaged in cognitive activity, such as solving math problems and playing Tetris®, a Nintendo® game. the peak frequency is between 6.2 and 6.7 Hz and maximally present at Fz [Fz=frontal midline electrode] but with a wide fronto-central distribution."

Journal of Neurotherapy: Theta: Don’t Tread on Me

"Fm Theta is associated clinically with the ability to sustain attention over a time, an extroverted personality, low anxiety and low neuroticism."

Journal of Neurotherapy: Theta: Don’t Tread on Me

"Of importance, the administration of diazepam (Valium®) and the ingestion of alcohol increases Fm Theta."

Journal of Neurotherapy: Theta: Don’t Tread on Me

"In a study of those with marked extroversion, Fm Theta was found, along with lowered platelet MAO activity [Low platelet MAO activity is associated with 'type 2 alcoholism.' MAO activity is also affected by cigarette smoking]."

Journal of Neurotherapy: Theta: Don’t Tread on Me

· The Brain: Frontal Midline Theta Rhythm (Fmθ) and Blinking

Types: 4 Hz Theta

"Subset 2: According to Cavanaugh (1972), 4 Hz Theta is associated with object naming, an important aspect of memory."

Journal of Neurotherapy: Theta: Don’t Tread on Me

Too Much Theta

"People with ADD/ADHD [inattentive ADD/ADHD, as opposed to other types of ADD such as overfocused] exhibit too little Beta (thinking) activity and too much Theta(dreaming) activity. This is the classic inattention for ADD.

With ADHD, hyperactivity keeps people from falling asleep. In essence, the person is combatting the high Theta activity and keeping themselves aroused (by increasing their Beta activity)."

Biofeedback Training: ADD/ADHD and Biofeedback

Theta and Laterality

· Sensory Processing: Laterality: Laterality and Brainwaves: Theta

Theta/Beta Ratio

"Lubar's [Dr. Joel Lubar] major contribution to the field [of ADD] is the theta-to-beta ratio--that is,

· Too much theta compared to beta, which can cause attention problems and hyperactivity.

(It seems counterintuitive that too much slow wave can cause a child to be hyperactive, but because the brain is operating too slowly and not getting enough stimuli, the child seeks external stimulation to reward his brain.) (Page 140)"

Book: Robbins, Jim. A Symphony in the Brain. Grove Press, 2000.

Alpha-Theta

Description

"Out of all the different types of brain waves there is a very interesting range called the Alpha-Theta border. I've already mentioned that the Alpha was half the story, well the Theta wave is the other half of a state of mind that brings about creativity, intelligence, and a host of other abilities the brain is capable of doing when properly stimulated.”

Brain Activity by Terrance A. Bastian

“The mind experiences the body in a half-in half-out state of sleep or detachment. The feeling is of being conscious of all things around you but the body being in deep relaxation.”

Brain Activity by Terrance A. Bastian

Sensory Processing

“It is a state where the central nervous system reduces input from the peripheral nervous system. The lowering of sensory input serves to normally protect the central nervous system from sensory overload caused by stress or physical damage.

Without these outside functions for the brain to control, the brain expands its functioning powers. The normally unused portion of the brain becomes active and performs at maximum capacity.”

Brain Activity by Terrance A. Bastian

Schumann Resonance

“This range is between 7-8 hertz and this is not so surprising when you learn that the resonant frequency of the earth and ionosphere is approximately 7.5 hertz. Our brains evolved within this dynamic field and used it as a standard to function on.”

Brain Activity by Terrance A. Bastian

· Wikipedia: Schumann Resonance

Reaching an Alpha-Theta State

“Many cultures discovered this and the methods to achieve this state naturally and artificially. Many of the worlds religions were founded on reaching this state and devised strict disciplines to do so. The Alpha-Theta range occurs during

· Reverie,

· Hypnogogic imagery,

· Meditation, and by

· Self-hypnosis."

Brain Activity by Terrance A. Bastian

· Vision: Vision Therapy: 3D Stereo Images

· Vision: Bates Method: Accommodation: Convergence, Divergence

Beta Brainwaves

Introduction

“The mental activity normally associated with Beta waves is the active awareness state that we experience from day to day at work and play.”

Brain Activity

Stimulants

“There are many external chemicals that can be induced into the brain to produce this state and they are known generally as stimulants. Some of those stimulants are

· Small amounts of alcohol,

· The nicotine in cigarettes,

· Caffeine in coffee and tea,

· Diet pills, and

· Amphetamines (which are illegal).”

Brain Activity

Too Much Beta

"Beta Brainwaves kick in when we think logically, solve problems, and confront external stimuli. Beta often races and brings panic at times. Used too often, you run the risk of thinking deeply about little, and tiring yourself out about much…Beta has it’s place but must be helped to slow down at times and reflect."

Brainwaves That Talk Back (PDF, 1.3 MB)

"However, too much Beta can cause significant problems for the individual by increasing muscle tension, raising blood pressure, and creating a state of anxiety for the individual. While it is possible to teach the highest level cognitive processing and complex artistic expression, attention must also be paid to assist the individual in achieving a degree of physical relaxation."

'EEG Biofeedback-New Interventions' by Dr. Marshall D. Voris

Smells and Tastes

Note: I would not recommend that people, experiencing Internet addiction, consume any products that increase beta waves regularly.

Peppermint:

“According to the Smell & Taste Research Center in Chicago, just getting a whiff of peppermint can dramatically increase the brain's production of beta-waves.”

However to really trigger your beta-waves you should chew peppermint gum, not just sniff it [really bad idea for people who already have too much beta]. This is because 90% of it's odor will quicly rise to the back of your throat and in to your nose. This raises your beta-wave production in less than a minute! [not a particularly good idea]”

NAVCOPS Network: Health & Lifestyle: 'How to keep energized when you're tired'

Jasmine:

“Fragrance of Jasmine increases beta waves in the front of the head…”

Holisticonline.com: Aromatherapy: How Does Aromatherapy Work?

Black Pepper, Rosemary, Basil:

“They've [John Steele and Robert Tisserand (researchers)] shown that beta brain waves, which indicate a state of heightened awareness, are increased when stimulating oils such as black pepper, rosemary, or basil are inhaled.”

Herbs for Health: Being Well the Natural Way Magazine, Jan/Feb 2003

Lavender, Rose:

“Calming oils such as lavender and rose produce more alpha and theta brain waves, indicative of relaxation and well-being. (Source: Herbs for Health: Being Well the Natural Way Magazine, Jan/Feb 2003)”

Herbs for Health: Being Well the Natural Way Magazine, Jan/Feb 2003

SMR (Sensorimotor Response) or Low Beta Brainwaves

Note: Sensorimotor response is also known as Sensory Motor Response, Sensorimotor rhythm, and many other terms.

Description of SMR

Some neurotherapists have observed that SMR brain wave frequencies make individuals feel more present, and in the moment.

"Low Beta (12-15 Hz), formerly 'SMR':
Distribution: localized by side and by lobe (frontal, occipital, etc)
Subjective feeling states: relaxed [?] yet focused, integrated
Associated tasks & behaviors: low SMR can reflect 'ADD', lack of focused attention
Physiological correlates: is inhibited by motion; restraining body may increase SMR
Effects of Training: increasing SMR can produce relaxed focus, improved attentive abilities,"

Brainwaves and the EEG: The Language of the Brain

Physiological Effects of SMR

"What Sterman had done by teaching the cats to produce SMR, he would come to realize, was to strengthen their brain function at the sensory motor strip, the same way a person builds muscle mass by repeatedly lifting weights. (Page 42)"

Book: Robbins, Jim. A Symphony in the Brain. Grove Press, 2000.

Vigilance

"The animal entered a unique state--it remained absolutely still, though extremely alert, waiting for the tone to end. It is the same state a house cat waits in, feigning heavy-lidded indifference, as a bird makes its way near enough to be pounced on.(P. 39)"

Book: Robbins, Jim. A Symphony in the Brain. Grove Press, 2000.

Immobility

SMR is inhibited by motion; restraining body may increase SMR.

"[making a conscious effort to see clearly] is commonly accompanied by some degree of immobility of the eyes and body. The rate of blinking decreases; breathing becomes shallower and may, for a while, even stop. The muscles of the head, neck, shoulders, and perhaps other parts of the body too, may be unnaturally tensed, and all the time the eyes are fixed with increasing intentness on their target. As the eyes become fixed so does the attention, which only encourages the eyes to become yet more fixed, with a resulting impairment of both vision and perception.(P. 59)"

Book: Barnes, Jonathan. Improve Your Eyesight: A Guide to the Bates Method for Better Eyesight without Glasses. Souvenir Press, 1999.

More information about immobility is included in the Mobility section of the Bates Method page.

Neurotherapy for ADD and Autism

Low SMR can be a symptom of ADD or autism. SMR training is sometimes used by Neurotherapists to treat these conditions. More information can be found in the sections:

· Research Topics: Similarities with ADD

· Research Topics: Similarities with Autism

Additional information about SMR neurofeedback is included in the section:

· Research Topics: Brainwaves: Brainwave Therapy: SMR Therapy

Volume and SMR

Lowering the volume of noise to a barely audible level may help to increase SMR. People tend to strain to hear quiet noises such as whispers and pink noise.

· Hearing: Hyperacusis: Suggestions: Pink Noise

Lack of Thirst Sense and Lack of SMR

· Other Suggestions: Dehydration: Effects: Thirst

Other Types of Brain Waves

Delta Brainwaves provide personal radar and feelings at unconscious levels. In healthy doses, these signals cause empathy while too much delta activity can pack on another’s baggage. If you read other people’s minds, you probably have more delta activity than most. If you find yourself in trouble for stepping on another’s toes during typical days, you may engage less."

Article 'Brainwaves that Talk Back' by Ellen Weber (PDF, 1.3 MB)

Brainwave Therapy

· Brainwaves: Brainwave Therapy

Brainwaves and Laterality

· Sensory Processing: Laterality: Laterality and Brainwaves

Brainwaves and Neurotransmitters

Lower Frequencies: Delta, Theta, Alpha-Theta

· "Lower brainwaves (Delta, Theta, and low Alpha [alpha-theta]) may cause stupor and sleepiness. They tend to release serotonin …"

Customized Brainwave Synchronization CDs

Higher Frequencies: Beta, Gamma

· "Higher frequencies (Beta and Gamma) release more dopamine."

Customized Brainwave Synchronization CDs

"The Brain also tries to match artificial man made signals. Higher frequency (above 12 Hz) trigger extra serotonin [increases] and melatonin [decreases] production in the brain. Most electric appliances work off of 60 Hz or higher in North America and 50 Hz in Europe. Computer monitors operate at 20,000 Hz., Cellular Phones operate a 840 Million Hz., Microwave Ovens at 2.8 Billion Hz. Scary eh! The higher the frequency the more serotonin that's produced in the brain."

Project AIR: Solar Shock Wave

Alpha Waves

Alpha Waves: Alpha Rhythms

Frequent exposure to alpha rhythms (e.g. music with one beat per second) may cause a release of endorphins.

Alpha Waves: Melatonin and Serotonin

Alpha waves are associated with a decrease in serotonin and an increase in melatonin, since they are more prominent when the eyes are closed.

"Alpha ranges between 7-12 hertz and is prominent during relaxation mostly with eyes closed, day dreaming, and upon deep self-introspection."

Brain Activity

"[The pineal gland] is located near the center of the brain in humans, and is stimulated by nerves from the eyes. The pineal gland secreted melatonin at night when it’s dark, thus secretes more in winter when the nights are longer."

Clermont College: Endocrine System

Related Topics

· The Brain: Dopamine

· The Brain: Serotonin

Smells and Tastes

Beta Waves

Note: I would not recommend that people, experiencing Internet addiction, consume any products that increase beta waves on a daily basis.

Peppermint

“According to the Smell & Taste Research Center in Chicago, just getting a whiff of peppermint can dramatically increase the brain's production of beta-waves.”

NAVCOPS Network: Health & Lifestyle: 'How to keep energized when you're tired'

Jasmine

“Fragrance of Jasmine increases beta waves in the front of the head…”

Holisticonline.com: Aromatherapy: How Does Aromatherapy Work?

Black Pepper, Rosemary, Basil

Herbs for Health: Being Well the Natural Way Magazine, Jan/Feb 2003

Alpha and Theta Waves

Lavender, Rose

Herbs for Health: Being Well the Natural Way Magazine, Jan/Feb 2003

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