soothe the savage beast

by Ellen Weber, Ph.D

Did you know that through music, you can alter your brainwaves in order to leave stress behind, relax, and enjoy work more? Rhythm can also add confidence for challenges you face.

Humans have four basic types of brain waves.

Beta waves are active when you confront problems or face new learning curves. But beta must be slowed down at times so you can rest and reflect.

Alpha waves add images and visuals - however, too much alpha activity leads to too many daydreams, while too little makes us into human machines without dreams.

Theta waves engage inner memories, sensations, and emotions, and can sometimes store secrets that were blocked out in times of pain to enable you to survive.

Finally, Delta waves, in balance, produce empathy, while too much delta activity can result in taking on another’s baggage.

Try this: on a day you feel stressed or overworked, imagine your brainwaves changing from active beta waves into reflective delta waves for calm and a feeling of satisfaction. Then play music that you especially enjoy when you relax. Gregorian chant, for example, can quiet your mind and reduce stress. Try rock or rhumba to go in the other direction. Or classical if you need to concentrate more.

Can music ‘soothe the savage beast?’ Absolutely. And much more!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Ellen Weber, Ph.D., is CEO and President of Rochester’s MITA International Brain Based Center. This article was adapted from her 2005 Book, MI Strategies in the Classroom and Beyond: Using Roundtable Learning, Pearson Publishers. Her web site is located at www.mitaleadership.com.