In Part One of this series, we discussed the idea of a flow state, in which the prefrontal cortex of the brain turns off and allows other parts of the brain to build connections. In the second part, we discussed how people have achieved these states principally through meditation and active physical risk taking. Now we will talk about why flow states are important to health.
Looking at the brain waves via electroencephalogram (EEG), scientists have identified three major brain waves that correlate with different states of consciousness. The normal waking, working mind, in which the prefrontal cortex is dominating our consciousness, emits beta waves. The prefrontal cortex is the part of our brain involved in calculating, language, and higher logic, and is the origin of the sense of self. Alpha waves correlate with the contemplative portion of our brain. It is active during classic meditation, yoga, and hiking, or walking. Theta waves are emitted during REM sleep and right before falling asleep. The most advanced meditation artists, such as Buddhist monks, are able to maintain their brain wave signature right at the alpha-theta boarder.
Scientists have begun to ask: Is it possible to take the brain wave fingerprint of an individual who is a master at a specific practice and upload it into a novice? The answer is yes and it is currently being done. The results have been found to increase an individual’s learning potential by 50 to 80 percent. We are not talking about the Matrix, in which the ability to do martial arts can be uploaded, but the rate of learning can be increased using a technique called neurofeedback
Using an EEG, scientists have measured eight to twelve frequencies in the brain of masters while they are performing specific tasks. They use this data to create a neurological fingerprint. Then, they place the EEG on a novice as they practice the same task. Whenever the novices’ brain wave signatures line up with the experts’ they are given positive feedback, such as the sound a bird chirping. Similar to the game Hot-Cold, in which an object is hidden in the room and a participant finds it with the help of feedback like “your getting warmer,” the brain will randomly shift it’s brain waves until it can find the most efficient and effective signature for that task. By giving positive feedback, the brain can match the most ideal brain wave signature 50 to 80 percent faster. These experiments have been performed using archery, chess, and even advanced meditation, with the same consistent results.
Altered states of consciousness have always been controversial to study or even to discuss, but modern neuro-physiology and diagnostic tools have just begun to open up our scientific understanding. Research has begun to dissolve the mysticism, shining light on what is happening in the mind, and achieving reproducible and predictable results in clinical settings. This could be the revolution that is sorely needed to spark a collective awaking of our culture and to unlock our fullest potential.
Kevin Waldron is the owner, acupuncturist, and herbalist at Colorado Restorative Acupuncture in Frisco. Kevin trained under world-renowned acupuncturists and traditional Chinese herbalists in the United States and China. He maintains a pharmacy that offers customized, raw, herb prescriptions in capsule form. Herbal consultations are available in person or by Skype and FaceTime. You can contact Kevin at (970) 389-8668, email@example.com, or check out his website at FriscoAcu.com.