Why is being in an Alpha brain wave state healthy for me?

Brainwave patterns are typically grouped into four different categories: Alpha, Beta, Theta and Delta. Each of these brainwave patterns is associated with various states of (feelings) mind. In the Consciousness Experiment, within the 8 week 'practiceThePractice' course, we are practicing eliciting Alpha brain waves.

Alpha Waves It is believed that many creative people are in Alpha state more of the time than others. Alpha waves are between 9 and 14 Hz and occur when the body is awake at rest, not asleep, and the eyes are closed. You may feel intellectual relaxation, deep relaxation or meditation when in Alpha. Alpha brainwave rhythms produce: warm hands and feet, peaceful feelings, a sense of well-being, improved academic performance, improved sleep, increased productivity in the workplace, reduced anxiety and improved immune functioning which counters the negative affects of Cortisol.

Alpha brain waves 'feel' a certain way in our experience. With the help of neurofeedback, you will learn how to find the 'feeling' of the Alpha brain waves. This feeling, may best be described as a feeling of transformational bliss. The ancients called this 'bliss' the Peace beyond understanding.

Beta Waves are fast, low amplitude waves of 15 to 30 times per second (Hz). Beta brainwave patterns are generated naturally when in an awake, focused and alert state of consciousness. In Beta we experience the stresses of our day-to-day activities. (e.g. Driving cars, shopping, paying bills, meeting deadlines.)

Theta Waves are between 4 and 8 Hz and are commonly referred to as the dream or "twilight" state. Memory development is enhanced in this state. In the Theta brainwave state, memory is improved, and access to unconscious material, sudden insight, free association and creative ideas is increased. Theta is associated with REM and dreaming states.

Delta Waves are observed when in a sleeping state. Delta waves are the slowest of brainwaves spanning from 1 to 3 Hz in frequency. As we fall asleep the dominant brainwave becomes Delta.

You will notice on the MindSet neurofeedback display, while somebody is an aroused state and exhibiting a beta brainwave pattern, there also exists in that person's brain a component of alpha, theta and delta, even though these may be present only at trace levels.