Research has found that the ideal state for learning is when the brain is in a relaxed, but aware state.So when we say relaxed, we do not mean asleep. We mean relaxed, focussed and aware.
At this point the brainwaves run at about 8 to 12 cycles per seconds or hertz.
This is called the alpha state.
This compares with the 'normal' state of 13-25 hertz which is called the beta state. The beta state is that of most of our waking moments as we go about our daily lives.
At the other end of the spectrum we find, just below the alpha level, the theta state which is even slower than alpha, and an even deeper sense of relaxation.
It is however more difficult to achieve, and really requires one to have the ability to meditate deeply. It is a highly creative state.
Slower still is the state of sleep which is the delta state.
So, How can the Alpha State be achieved?
Read On!!
It can be achieved in a number of ways and most of us achieve it at some during most days. A typical time may be just before one goes to sleep, or as one wakes.
At this time the mind is clear, receptive to information, and rapidly makes 'connections', realisations and joins up thoughts.One naturally enters the alpha state as one falls asleep, and when one slowly and naturally wakes up.
The blast of the alarm clock will shatter through theta-delta-alpha and to beta.
How does one harness this 'alpha state' on waking?
* As you awaken, just lie there and consciously direct your thoughts to the learning material you are covering, or the topics that you need to address.
This is particularly easy when you have no pressure to get out of bed, say on a weekend.
* Use a non-alarm type alarm clock. Use one of those that just wakes you up gently, for example like with quiet music that very slowly builds up.
Researchers have also found that certain music types ease the brainwaves into the relaxed 'alpha state' that is ideal for enhancing the learning process.
If you listen to music that contains rhythms at a frequency of 10 Hz,it will generate more brain waves at a frequency of 10 Hz, and enter a state of mental relaxation .
One form of this music is the largo movements of certain Baroque composers. The largo movements are around 40 to 60 beats per minute.
If you are a skeptic, why not try classical music while studying?
Suggested songs:
1. Aira, de la suite No.3
2. Adagio
3. Danza de los espíritus bienaventurados, de Orfeo y Eurídice
4. Largo de Xerxes
5. Canon en Re
6. andante, del concierto No.21 para piano
7. Adagio sostenuto
8. El cisne, del Carnaval de los animales
9. Muerte de Ase, de Peer Gynt
10. Meditación de Tahis
11. Intermezzo, de Cavalleria rusticana
12. Claro de luna
13. Fantasía sobre Greensleeves
14. Gnossienne No.1
15. Adagietto, de la sinfonía No.5
You can listen to the previous tracklist with just one click on the video below.
Bibliography
* " Música para el entrenamiento de las ondas cerebrales." Piano Red: sitio sobre pianos. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 Apr. 2010. http://www.pianored.com/musica/2007/10/28/ondas-cerebrales.
* "Alpha brainwaves are the optimum for Superlearning. 10 things you must know.." Language learning 200 words a day Spanish,French,German, Welsh-easy-effective.. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 Apr. 2010.http://www.200words-a-day.com/alpha.html.
