Meditation and Brain Waves
Meditation is an ancient practice in our search for inner peace, mental clarity and improved wellbeing. In more recent years neuroscience has played its part in backing this tradition, including Alpha-Theta Neurofeedback Training. When Alpha-Theta training is paired with meditation, it creates a powerful synergy that can unlock deeper emotional healing, creativity, and self-awareness.
Understanding Brainwaves: The Role of Alpha and Theta
What do Alpha and Theta brainwaves actually do?
- Alpha waves (8–12 Hz): Linked to calm, relaxed alertness. Often observed in experienced meditators.
- Theta waves (4–8 Hz): Associated with deep relaxation, early sleep stages, and hypnagogic imagery. Also tied to emotional processing and creativity.
Alpha-Theta neurofeedback training uses real-time brainwave monitoring to guide users into these states—often with the goal of enhancing creativity, resolving trauma, or accessing unconscious material.
Meditation and Alpha-Theta States: Natural Allies
Most forms of meditation naturally increase Alpha activity in the brain. With lots of practice, Theta waves become more prominent, marking a shift into non-ordinary states of consciousness. In fact, many seasoned meditators report experiences such as:
- Hypnagogic imagery (floating sensations, vivid visuals)
- A sense of timelessness or deep presence
- Spontaneous emotional release
These are the same states targeted in Alpha-Theta neurofeedback
Alpha-Theta training is a specialized form of EEG neurofeedback developed by researchers treat PTSD and addiction. The method typically involves:
- Eyes-closed, reclined relaxation
- Real-time audio feedback when Alpha or Theta amplitudes increase
- A goal of “crossover”—a moment when Theta overtakes Alpha, thought to allow access to deep unconscious material
It’s not about consciously controlling brainwaves, but rather creating the right environment for the brain to naturally shift into these healing states.
How Meditation Enhances Neurofeedback—and Vice Versa – Synergy
| Meditation | Alpha-Theta Neurofeedback |
| Cultivates present-moment awareness | Provides real-time feedback to guide brain states |
| Reduces cognitive noise and rumination | Targets specific brainwave frequencies linked to relaxation and insight |
| Trains non-attachment and self-observation | Facilitates access to emotional material in a safe setting |
| Often requires long-term practice for deep shifts | Can accelerate access to deep states through conditioning |
Potential Benefits of Combining the Two
- Faster access to flow states and creative insight
- Enhanced emotional processing and trauma resolution
- Reduced anxiety and improved mood regulation
- Greater self-awareness and spiritual depth
Research is still developing, but early findings and anecdotal reports suggest that the combination can be a transformative part of personal growth, especially for those exploring deep inner work. We’d like to work with more meditators to enhance our observations. Please contact us if you’d like to try combining both. You can use meditation before attending an Alpha Theta session or afterwards to help integrate insights.
Whether you’re a seasoned meditator looking to deepen your practice, or someone seeking alternative approaches to therapy and personal growth, Alpha-Theta neurofeedback may be the missing link that guides you to profound inner breakthroughs.
Further Reading
Alpha-Theta Neurofeedback in the 21st Century: a handbook for clinicians and researchers, 2017. Eds. Antonio Martins-Mourao & Cynthia Kerson