Understanding Brain States and Brain Waves: Alpha, Beta, Theta – Can They Be Controlled?

Apps and technology claiming to shift the brain into a “theta” state, which is said to aid relaxation, focus, and sleep, are abundant. However, the concept of changing one’s “mental state” and the possibility of doing so remain unclear. As our understanding of the brain improves, brain-measuring technology is evolving. Currently, different approaches to imaging or measuring brain activity provide varying perspectives. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and functional MRI have contributed significantly to our knowledge of brain activity. Electroencephalography (EEG) measures electrical activity accurately but struggles to identify specific brain regions. Magnetic stimulation accurately measures brain response but is limited to surface areas. Brain states are recurring activity patterns across the brain that emerge from physiological or cognitive processes and are functionally relevant to behavior. Arousal and resting are commonly studied brain states that can be influenced by environmental factors and activities. Brain waves, measured using EEG, are associated with different brain states such as alpha, delta, theta, and gamma. However, controlling brain states intentionally remains challenging due to the complexity of the mechanisms involved. Neurofeedback therapy, which uses brain wave patterns to provide feedback and encourage desired states, has been explored but lacks conclusive evidence. Other methods, such as sensory inputs like binaural beats, also have mixed evidence. While these treatments are often costly and their success may rely on the therapeutic relationship, they do not appear to cause harm.