Neuro

Question 1

Delta

Answer 1

0.5 - 4Hz - This occurs in a deep dreamless sleep or unconsciousness. This is associated with drowsiness. It also occurs at first stage of sleep and during deep meditation, when we are awake but open to mental imagery. It has been associated with creativity, intuition daydreaming and fantasizing.

Question 2

Theta

Answer 2

4 - 7 Hz - Believed to reflect activity from the limbic system and increased activity is observed in anxiety, behavioral activation and inhibition. This is the major rhythm seen in a normal, relaxed adult. It is present during most of life. It is considered a common state during alertness but not actively processing information.

Question 3

Alpha

Answer 3

8 - 12 Hz - Alpha has been linked to creativity (creative people show alpha when listening and coming to a solution) and mental work. Alpha activity is also associated with overall mental and body/mind coordination, calmness, alertness and learning.

Question 4

Beta

Answer 4

12 - 30 Hz - Beta reflects highly active processing. Occurs during normal waking consciousness and outward attention. Slow beta: 12-17 is normal information processing and mental activity; Fast beta: 17-30 is heightened alertness and fight or flight, or anxiety.

Question 5

Gamma

Answer 5

30 - 100 Hz - This is associated with waking states and can occur when we are simultaneously processing information in both brain hemispheres. Whales and dolphins also operate in these frequencies.