The electroencephalograph (AKA. EEG) is a machine that monitors brainwave-activity. Laboratories around the world have done studies and experiments-using these tools to better understand the four main brainwave patterns:-BETA, ALPHA, THETA and DELTA. Each frequency has a characteristic blueprint-and produces a distinctive state of consciousness. BETA waves (14 cycles per-second and above) dominate the normal waking state of consciousness when-attention is directed towards the outside world. ALPHA waves (8-13 cycles-per second) are present during dreaming and light meditation when the eyes-are closed. THETA waves (4-7 cycles per second) occur in sleep and are-dominate in the highest state of mediation. In deep meditation and deep-sleep, DELTA waves (.5 to 3 cycles per second) are experienced. Each of-these brainwave frequencies serves an important function. The optimum level-for deep thought is in the realm of THETA. When in THETA, the senses are-withdrawn from the external world and focused on then inner one. DELTA waves-endow a total vacation from existence and provide the most profound feelings-of peace.

Studies have shown that the vibrations from rhythmic sounds have a-profound effect on brain activity. In shamanic traditions, drums were used-in periodic rhythm to transport the shaman into other realms of reality. The-vibrations from this constant rhythm affected the brain in a very specific-manner, allowing the shaman to journey out of his or her body.

Brain pattern studies were recently conducted by researcher Melinda Maxfield-into the (SSC) Shamanic State of Consciousness. She found that the steady-rhythmic beat of the drum struck four and one half times per second was the-key to transporting a shaman into the deepest part of his shamanic state of-consciousness. It is no coincidence that 4.5 beats, or cycles per second-corresponds to the trance like state of theta brain wave activity. In direct-correlation, we see similar effects brought on by the constant and rhythmic-drone of Tibetan Buddhist chants, which transport the monks and even other-listeners into realms of blissful meditation.

The gentle pulsating rhythms act in a similar fashion,-if the frequencies are computer generated, they are precise,-consistent and can be targeted to induce highly specific and desired brain-states. Just as we can tune a radio to get a particular station, with-this technology we can tune our consciousness to dial-in a wide variety of-brain states.

· Alertness, Concentration, Focus & Cognition

· Relaxation, Visualization, & Creativity

· Intuition, Memory, Meditation & Vivid Visual Imagery

· Deep Sleep, Healing & Detached Awarness

Like sound waves, the brain has its own set of vibrations it uses to-communicate with itself and the rest of the body. EEG equipment-distinguishes these waves by measuring the speed with which neurons fire in-cycles per second.

Beta waves range between 13-40 HZ. The beta state is associated with peak-concentration, heightened alertness and visual acuity. Nobel Prize Winner,-Sir Francis Crick and other scientists believe that the 40HZ beta frequency may be key to the act of cognition.

Alpha waves range between 7-12 HZ. This is a place of deep relaxation, but-not quite meditation. In Alpha, we begin to access the wealth of creativity-that lies just below our conscious awareness – it is the gateway, the entry-point that leads into deeper states of consciousness. Alpha is also the home-of the window frequency known as the Schuman Resonance, which is the-resonant frequency of the earth’s electromagnetic field.

Theta waves range between 4-7 HZ. Theta is one of the more elusive and-extraordinary realms we can explore. It is also known as the twilight state-which we normally only experience fleetingly as we rise up out of the depths-of delta upon waking, or drifting off to sleep. In theta we are in a waking-dream, vivid imagery flashes before the mind’s eye and we are receptive to-information beyond our normal conscious awareness. Theta has also been-identified as the gateway to learning and memory. Theta meditation increases-creativity, enhances learning, reduces stress and awakens intuition and-other extrasensory perception skills.

Delta waves range between 0-4 HZ. Delta is associated with deep sleep. In-addition, certain frequencies in the delta range trigger the release of-Growth Hormone beneficial for healing and regeneration. This is why sleep,-deep restorative sleep is so essential to the healing process.

source; http://peyote.com/jonstef/brain.htm