Brainwaves are the patterns of electrical activity produced by neurons in the brain as they communicate with one another. These electrical signals can be measured using electroencephalography (EEG). Brainwaves are typically categorized into five main types based on their frequency, each associated with different mental states and cognitive functions.

  1. δ Delta waves (0.5-4 Hz): Delta waves are the slowest brainwaves and are primarily associated with deep, dreamless sleep and the process of healing and regeneration. They are most prominent during stages 3 and 4 of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, also known as slow-wave sleep.
  2. θ Theta waves (4-8 Hz): Theta waves are associated with light sleep, drowsiness, and the early stages of REM sleep. They also play a role in creativity, intuition, and daydreaming. Theta waves can be observed during meditation, deep relaxation, and some forms of hypnosis. Theta waves are strong during internal focus, meditation, prayer, and spiritual awareness.
  3. ⍺ Alpha waves (8-12 Hz): Alpha waves are linked to relaxed wakefulness, a state of calm awareness, and mild meditation. They are typically present when the mind is at rest and not engaged in active problem-solving or focused attention. Alpha waves have been associated with enhanced creativity, reduced anxiety, and improved overall mood.
    1. They are strongest over the occipital (back of the head) cortex and also over frontal cortex. Alpha has been linked to extroversion (introverts show less), creativity (creative subjects show alpha when listening and coming to a solution for creative problems), and mental work. When your alpha is within normal ranges we tend to also experience good moods, see the world truthfully, and have a sense of calmness. Alpha is one of the brain’s most important frequency to learn and use information taught in the classroom and on the job. You can increase alpha by closing your eyes or deep breathing or decrease alpha by thinking or calculating.
  4. β Beta waves (13-30 Hz): Beta waves are related to normal waking consciousness, active thinking, problem-solving, and focused attention. They are further divided into three subcategories: a. Low beta (13-15 Hz): Also known as "SMR" (sensorimotor rhythm), low beta is associated with relaxation, reduced anxiety, and improved cognitive function. b. Mid beta (15-20 Hz): Mid beta is linked to mental focus, alertness, and concentration. c. High beta (20-30 Hz): High beta is associated with high levels of cognitive activity, anxiety, and stress.
  5. γ Gamma waves (30-44 Hz): Gamma waves are the fastest brainwaves and are associated with high-level cognitive functions, such as perception, learning, memory, and problem-solving. They are also related to states of heightened consciousness, increased neural synchrony, and peak mental performance.

For example: Our brain uses 13Hz (high alpha or low beta) for “active” intelligence. Often we find individuals who exhibit learning disabilities and attention problems having a deficiency of 13Hz activity in certain brain regions that affects the ability to easily perform sequencing tasks and math calculations.

Suggested App

Brain Waves - Binaural Beats - Apps on Google Play

(Let me know if you have a recommendation for an IOS one)

Sources:

Brainwave Frequencies and Effects

THE SCIENCE OF BRAINWAVES – THE LANGUAGE OF THE BRAIN