Tuesday, October 20, 2009

THE POWERFUL ALPHA STATE

THE POWERFUL ALPHA STATE

The Alpha state of brain wave activity is a state of mind which is relaxed, but aware.
At the alpha state the brainwaves run at about 8 to 12 cycles per seconds or hertz.
The rest of our waking moments for the most part are in beta, the 'normal' state of 13-25 hertz.

A very creative and even more relaxed state is the theta state which is even slower than alpha, and an even deeper sense of relaxation. It is at the theta state that much creativity lies in our brains. Theta brainwaves are typically of even greater amplitude and slower frequency. This frequency range is normally between 5 and 8 cycles a second. A person who has taken time off from a task and begins to daydream is often in a theta brainwave state.

The Delta state is the brainwave activity we achieve during sleep. Here the brainwaves are of the greatest amplitude and slowest frequency. They typically range between 1.5 to 4 cycles per second.

The Alpha State is where we want to be as often as possible. Jesie Len Gallagher, BSW, CH, CI writes;
However it is achieved, the therapeutic benefits are similar. When in the alpha state, one is lifted to a place inside where there is peace and order, where all is well and makes sense. When the human system is relaxed, the natural harmony in consciousness can take over, and the inner light can put things in place.

William Dorich, writer of five books writes about Western over-stimulation and the need to disconnect from it……
Our over analytical approach to realty and addiction to over stimulation makes it difficult for Western Civilization to get a grip on the concept of meditation, let alone practice it. The good news is that we are naturally predisposed to enter into an Alpha state every 90 minutes of the day. However, we grab a Starbucks instead of a siesta and press on. As one Beta wave compounds on top of another, it makes it increasingly difficult to disengage at the end of the day. When our head finally does hit the pillow at night, we skip the Alpha phase and move directly into Theta or Delta. Since Alpha is where the rejuvenation process takes place, we may find ourselves waking up exhausted simply to start the entire process over again, consequently developing a chronic stress pattern that can lead to diminished vitality and depression.

There are three ways to enter the alpha state: MEDITATION, YOGA, AND RELAXATION.

Meditation— Meditation has been used for years to achieve the tranquil state of mind and to stay in it for longer durations of time. During meditation, you relax and calm the mind, and focus on your breathing and letting go of thoughts. Natural healing occurs during this deep relaxation. It promotes regeneration, youthfulness, joy and expansion.

Yoga-- Yoga practitioners are aware of the connection between both mind and body. The pranayama, or rhythmic breathing, allows for integration of the mind and body using the breath as the catalyst. At the end of a session, a relaxed meditative state allows one to absorb the full benefit of the discipline as one prepares to re-enter the world of daily activities.

Practicing yoga can have a major impact on many aspects of your life. Practicing different poses can help improve flexibility, movement of joints, and add muscle tone. Yoga also has a profound effect on your mood. Yoga helps to decrease anxiety, depression, and worrying and it helps to increase concentration, memory, and well-being. Adding yoga to your life can help build your immune system and yoga can increase your energy.

Relaxation--- Relaxation brings health and well being to your body. It allows for controlled thought, which produces more productive, clear, and calm decisions. You feel more of a sense of peace, and feelings of wellness, which allows happiness and true contentment to abound in your life. Relaxation is a conduit for intuition, and you will be able to make decisions effortlessly. Relationships of all kinds will be easier to manage, and everything will flow more easily.

You can attain the Alpha State every day by meditating on your chakras daily.
There are seven chakras – each one associated with the primary colors.
This is the chakra meditation I use daily.
Chakras

1. ROOT CHAKRA: BASE OF SPINE: KUNDALINI CHAKRA. Starting point of the body’s life energy and seat of basic molecular health and balance. GROUNDING AND ABUNDANCE- RED
2. PELVIS PLEXUS: SACRAL CHAKRA. Origin of erotic passion and biological creation. CREATIVITY AND SEXUALITY- ORANGE
3. SOLAR PLEXUS: NAVAL CHAKRA. Center point of physical and spiritual balance; sense of self and inner calm. POWER - YELLOW
4. CARDIAC PLEXUS: HEART CHAKRA. Center of compassion; can infuse all other chakras with this aspect. LOVE AND COMPASSION - GREEN
5. VAGUS NERVE AND CERVICAL GANGLION: THROAT CHAKRA. Communication and self expression – THROAT- BLUE
6. PINEAL GLAND: MENTAL CHAKRA. Third Eye, PERCEPTION- INDIGO
7. CROWN CHAKRA- PITUITARY GLAND: SPIRITUAL CHAKRA. Top of head; sense of perspective and unity; symbolized by the Thousand Petaled Lotus. SPIRIT AND HIGHER CONSCIOUSNESS – PURPLE OR WHITE


Achievement of the Alpha state is most beneficial for optimal health. To your good health!