Delta

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Neurofeedback in Sonoma County

Delta (0.5-3 Hz) is associated with deep sleep, when the body is engaged in a process of healing and restoration. When Delta waves are dominant, the brain increases its production of Serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with positive and relaxed mood states.

Delta waves are slow, high-amplitude brainwaves with a frequency range of 0.5 to 4 Hz. They are most commonly observed during deep sleep, especially in stages three and four of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep. Delta waves play a crucial role in the body’s restorative processes, aiding in healing, immune function, and growth. Their large amplitude reflects synchronized neural activity, mainly in the thalamus and cortex, which contributes to the wave’s characteristic slow oscillations. During deep sleep, delta waves allow for minimal external stimuli processing, effectively disconnecting the brain from conscious awareness and supporting restorative functions.

In addition to sleep, delta waves are also associated with some unique cognitive and neurological states. They are more prominent in young children and tend to decrease in frequency and amplitude as people age, correlating with changes in sleep quality and depth. Abnormal delta wave activity may be seen in brain injuries, certain types of neurological disorders, and even in states of deep meditation, where practitioners reach exceptionally calm, relaxed states. Monitoring delta waves through electroencephalography (EEG) provides insights into sleep quality, neurological health, and the brain’s ability to enter restorative states, making them valuable in both clinical and research settings.

Excess Delta: Brain Fog, ADHD, Brain Injury, Learning Disabilities.

Deficient Delta: Depression, Burnout, Stress, Poor Sleep Quality, Chronic Fatigue.

Well-Balanced Delta: Memory Encoding, Physical Repair of the Body’s Tissues.