Light & Brain

Typical distribution of frequencies with normal brain activity, at rest.	Example of the frequency pattern during Hypnagogic Light Experience

How do brain waves change when interacting with flickering light?

Interacting with flickering light can synchronize brain waves and alter brainwave activity, a phenomenon known as "entrainment." This adaptability, integral to cognitive flexibility, enables us to adjust brain waves in response to external stimuli. With the help of The Lucia N°03 the brain can be stimulated in the following ways:

1.         Visual Cortex Activation: Flickering light directly stimulates the visual cortex in the brain. The frequency of the flicker can affect the firing patterns of neurons in this region, leading to changes in brain wave activity across various frequencies.

2.         Neural Synchronization: Flickering light can promote synchronization of neural activity across different brain regions. This synchronization can have various effects on cognitive processes, including attention, perception, and memory.

3.         Alpha waves: Recent research shows that flickering lights can increase the “power” of alpha waves, which typically oscillate at a frequency of 8 to 12 Hertz (Hz). When flickering lights increase alpha wave power, the waves are more closely synchronized and their peaks and troughs become larger.

4.         Theta waves: Flickering light can also affect theta brain waves. Theta waves are linked with deep relaxation, meditation, and sometimes drowsiness. Exposure to flickering light in the theta frequency range (around 4 to 7 Hz) may lead to an increase in theta activity.

5.         Effect on Different Individuals: It’s worth noting that the effects of flickering light can vary between individuals. Some people may be more sensitive to flicker frequencies, while others may not show significant changes in brain wave activity. Additionally, factors such as age, health, and genetic predispositions can influence how individuals respond to flickering light.

Overall, exposure to flickering light can modulate brain wave activity, potentially affecting cognitive states such as relaxation, alertness, and attention. However, the specific effects can vary depending on factors such as the frequency and intensity of the flicker, as well as individual differences in brain function. 

How are Brain waves measured?

Brain waves are measured using a technique called electroencephalography (EEG). Here’s how it works:

1.         Electrodes are placed on the scalp to detect the electrical activity of the brain. These electrodes pick up the electrical signals produced by the brain’s neurons as they communicate with each other.

2.         The electrical signals are amplified and visualized as waveforms on a computer screen. The waveforms represent the brain’s electrical activity.

3.         The frequency of these waveforms, or how fast they oscillate, is measured in cycles per second, or Hertz (Hz). This frequency is what distinguishes the different types of brain waves (Gamma, Beta, Alpha, Theta, and Delta).

4.         The amplitude, or height of the wave, can also provide information about the brain’s activity.

5.         The data can be mapped onto a ‘map’ of the head, showing which areas of the brain have electrical activity and how these areas are working in relation to each other.

It’s important to note that while EEG is a powerful tool for measuring brain activity, it doesn’t capture everything. The brain has billions of neurons, and EEG can’t track all their individual activities. However, it gives us a good overall picture of brain activity and can be very useful in research and clinical settings.

The Bidirectional Neurofeedback Method is a technique that involves the real-time processing and measurement of EEG signals while providing feedback to the same person simultaneously. This method is a part of a broader field known as neurofeedback, which is a type of biofeedback that teaches self-control of brain function by measuring brain activity and presenting a feedback signal in real-time. 

This measurable synchronization of brain waves gives Light Travelers insight to the transformative impact that flickering light has on our ability to be creative, think more clearly, improve our mental health and even reflect upon spiritual experiences.