This document provides an overview of brainwaves and brainwave entrainment. It describes the five main brainwave patterns (gamma, beta, alpha, theta, delta), their associated frequencies, neural processes, and states of consciousness. Brainwave entrainment involves using binaural beats to intentionally shift brainwave patterns in order to access different mental states and promote benefits like stress relief, focus, creativity, and healing.
Neurobiology final: Journey of a Sensation by Peter Grabas
Brainwaves week 1 lesson presentation
1. Brainwaves
• Intro to Brainwaves
• Brainwave Patterns
Brainwave Entrainment
• Intro to Brainwave Entrainment
• Binaural Beats
• Benefits of Entrainment
2. Lesson Objective:
Describe the nature and function of
brainwaves including patterns, related
processes and states.
• Gamma
• Beta
• Alpha
• Theta
• Delta
3. • The brain is powered by electromagnetic energy.
Whether we are mentally active, resting or asleep,
the brain always has electrical activity.
• We can view and analyze the traces of electrical
activity that represent the brainwaves.
• Like all waves, brain waves have a frequency,
which are measured in cycles per second or Hertz
(Hz); the lower the Hz, the slower the wave.
4. Measuring Frequency:
• Compare the two brainwave
patterns; Figures A and B.
• Pattern A is a much more rapid
pattern, with the waveform
completing its cycle 28 times in a
given timeframe.
A
• Pattern B is much slower, with
the waveform cycling only 7
times during the same time
interval.
• If the timeframe given is 1 B
second, then figure A would be
28 cycles per second, or 28 Hz.
Figure B would be 7 cycles per
second, or 7 Hz.
5. Gamma Waves -The deeply focused Gamma: 40 Hz – 99 Hz
brainwaves that support incredibly high States:
levels of information processing, joy and Enhanced self-awareness and insight.
compassion. Clarity of mind.
Euphoria.
Very rapid pattern. Produces higher
levels of compassion and the ability to Neural Processes:
process and analyze complex Higher integration of sensory information.
information. Higher levels of brain organization.
Deeply influences waking consciousness and
perception.
Found in all parts of the brain.
6. Beta: 13 Hz – 39 Hz
Beta Waves - The brainwaves of deep
States:
engagement and conscious thought. Also
Wide awake, focused and alert.
called “Multi tasking monkey mind.”
Sensorimotor awareness.
Peak physical and mental performance.
Prolonged Beta can cause exhaustion
and feelings of anxiety and discomfort. Processes:
Complex mental processing.
Analyzes new information rapidly.
Short bursts have been used to increase cognitive
functions.
7. Alpha: 8 Hz – 12 Hz
Alpha Waves - The brainwaves of
States:
relaxed focus, peak performance, and the
Open Focus
ability to forgive.
Beginning of drowsiness
Relaxed Alertness
Creates a relaxed clarity and peaceful yet
Zen meditation
focused mindset. Benefits reading,
planning and the imagination.
Processes:
Accelerated Learning
Can stimulate the release of Serotonin
8. Theta: 4 Hz – 7.5 Hz
Theta Waves - The profoundly relaxed
States:
brainwaves of effortless
Hypnogogic State
visualization, emotional healing and
Dreaming Sleep
creative insight.
Deep Meditation
Associated with accessing long term
Processes:
memories and healing emotional
Creative Inspiration
trauma.
Vivid Imagery
Long-term Memory
Out-of-body Experiences
9. Delta Waves - The high amplitude
Delta: .5 Hz – 3.5 Hz
brain rhythms of unfathomably deep
States:
meditation, physical restoration,
Formless/expansive awareness
uncommon intuition and heart-felt
Very deep meditation
empathy.
Deep dreamless sleep
Many of the benefits of brainwave
Processes:
entrainment technology are associated
Healing and recuperation
with this brainwave pattern.
Promotion of empathy
Immune system is strengthened