December 13th, 2011 | 
Author: The brain is a most incredible organ and is the foundation from which all cognition, feeling, emotion and movement stems from. The nervous system in its entirety is present in every part of the body. The brain itself is a powerhouse of neurons which communicate via the brain stem and spinal cord with the rest of the body. The central nervous system is connected to every element of the body by nerves. Nerves are the vehicles that carry impulses from the body to the brain and from the brain to the body, ensuring adequate communication. Not only does the brain rely on nerves in order to communicate with the body and vice-versa, but it also relies on intertwined chemicals such as hormones and peptides which travel through the bloodstream.
The brain functions according to certain frequencies and these frequencies are often called states. The Brain has four states in which it functions within. The first state is called the Beta state and it is in this state that your brain is possibly the most alert. It is in this state that concentration and cognition takes place most easily and that is why it is better to study in the Beta state than in the Alpha state. Beta waves or frequencies range between 13-40 HZ and this state is most associated with intense concentration, razor-sharp alertness, visual and physical coordination. The Nobel Prize winner, Sir Francis Crick and his colleague Kock, believe that 40HZ beta frequency is where cognition and consciousness is generated.
The second brain state is the Alpha state which encompasses relaxation and visualisation and other forms of creativity. The brain is now no longer in a heightened state of awareness and readiness as it was in the Beta state, instead it is calming down and is becoming more relaxed within the Alpha state. Alpha waves range between 7-12 HZ and in this range, the brain is most relaxed and is in this state, an individual is most likely to bring forth creativity and innovation.
The third brain state is the Theta state which is the state that moves beyond the Alpha state and is in a deeper state of relaxation whereby the person will experience a sense of “floating” almost. In the Theta state, your brain is looking within and it is in this state that the brain is able to access memories, innovative ideas and flash-like dream states. Theta waves range between 4-7 HZ and it is here that the brain taps into unconscious awareness.
The fourth brain state is the Delta state which is the state moving beyond the Theta state where the brain is no longer aware or at least there is a sense of detached awareness. In addition, the brain is now in sleep mode and this Delta state triggers the release of Human Growth Hormone which proceeds to heal the body while in the sleep state. It is here that the subconscious functions at its best and during the time of Delta state, the body is rejuvenated.
The four brain states come together in perfect unity in order to ensure the brain functions at its optimum.
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