Introducing the Different Types of Brain Waves (Feb 2023)

Let’s discuss brain waves! In this article, I explain the different kinds of brain waves, how they are measured, and what they mean. The chart below is a snapshot of my brain wave data for a minute in a resting state of mind.

I measured my brain wave data when I was feeling relaxed, using the Neurosity Crown device. This device measures brain activity and displays the data. Brain waves are essentially electrical activity generated from billions of our brain cells, or neurons, that constantly send signals from the brain throughout the body. Brain waves come in the form of electrical pulses from large amounts of neurons that communicate with one another. The speed or frequency of these pulses are measured in Hertz (cycles per second) and they are also divided into categories based on their frequency. The five main categories are: Beta waves, Alpha waves, Theta waves, Delta waves, and Gamma waves. Brain waves are not only measured by frequency, but also by amplitude (the depth and height of each wave). 

Alpha waves have a frequency range from 8 hz - 12 hz, and are produced when the body is physically and mentally relaxed. These waves increase beta-endorphin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, which are chemicals connected to feelings of clarity and allow us to process previously learned information. 

Beta waves occur at a range from 12 hz - 27 hz, and are responsible for a state of irritation, discomfort, or anxiety, also known as the fight-flight response. This brain wave can be beneficial in sufficient amounts, as it keeps us alert and concentrated, and increases our logic, reasoning, and critical thinking. Some mental or emotional issues that result from a lack of this brain activity include depression and insomnia. 

Theta brain waves are common in a frequency range from 3 hz - 8 hz, typically during a state of somnolence or reduced consciousness, light sleep, or strong relaxation. Benefits from this brain wave include physical healing, restful sleep, releasing hormones, and decreasing fatigue, anxiety, or stress. 

Delta brain waves are present from 0.2 hz - 3 hz. Delta is emitted during deep and dreamless sleep, when the body is fully unconscious, making it the slowest brain wave. This helps the body release anti-aging hormones. 

Finally, gamma waves, the fastest of the five brain wave frequencies, range from 27 hz and up. Gamma is associated with the formation of ideas, language, memory processing and various types of learning. Although it has been shown to disappear during sleep induced anesthesia, these waves generally return when the body wakes. Gamma helps increase several things, including intelligence, compassion, self-control, happiness, and awareness through all five senses. 

 These five types of brain waves vary in function, frequency, and size, but are all equally necessary for physical and mental stability.