Yoga Nidra as a Journey Through the Brain waves
Depending on our state of consciousness our brain emits different electrical frequencies. These have been divided into 5 main brainwave states – each have different beneficial effects. We can experience all of these during our Yoga Nidra practice.
Delta wave states give us healing and mental clarity
Delta brain waves are the slowest and deepest, we normally experience these during deep dreamless sleep. During Delta wave states we release anti-aging hormones, including melatonin and DHEA. DHEA is a hormone that slows the aging process, possibly improving well-being and cognitive function. Healing and regeneration happen in this state, time spent here reduces sleepiness, enhances concentration, motor performance and elevates mood.
Theta brain waves help us with creativity, problem solving and learning.
Theta brain waves come next. These are normally during the dreaming state. Time spent here can increase our ability to solve problems and have creative new ideas. Many artists and inventors like Beethoven, Salvador Dali, Isaac Newton and Thomas Edison used the theta state. Theta waves are also important for storing memory and learning.
Alpha waves can improve our co-ordination and mind-body integration
Next comes Alpha brain waves. This is when we’re awake and daydreaming, meditating or having slow gentle thoughts. Time here increases wellbeing and creativity It’s good for co-ordination, calmness, mind-body integration, learning.
Beta brain waves carry us through our everyday life
Beta brain waves are our normal waking state. These can range from excited or stressed to depressed or peaceful. One of the things that can put us in the excited/peaceful range rather than the stressed/depressed range is Yoga Nidra.
Gamma brain waves give us high-level understanding.
Finally, Gamma brain waves are the fastest – they are thought to be flashes of insight and frictionless understanding. They can arise when the brain is quiet and functioning in an integrated way – like during Yoga Nidra.
The Alpha/Theta boundary helps us to connect to our own unconscious.
And then we come to the magic Yoga Nidra place: The Alpha/Theta boundary or the hypnagogic state. This is where the brain is at its most flexible, where it’s easiest to change old unwanted habits. It’s where we have access to the conscious and the unconscious mind. Where we can connect to our creativity, memories and make new connections.
And finally, according to the Schumann Resonance theory it’s the resonance of the earth. The frequency of nature, where we feel connected and at home.
Yoga Nidra is such a magic practice that is so accessible. If anyone is ever having problems sleeping and so missing out on the healing and rejuvenating effects or Delta and Theta states, Yoga Nidra could be part of the solution.