The Levels of MindWe have all read the comments about relaxing the mind of all thought being the way to proper meditation. From a Tantra perspective, quieting the mind allows energy to flow freely within oneself or between two lovers. Understanding the various levels of brain wave function helps us to identify where we are in the process.There are five different states of the functioning mind also known as levels of mind. In the spiritual realm there are the conscious, subconscious, sub subconscious, subsuperconscious and super conscious levels of mind. From a scientific standpoint, the brain functions as electrical vibrations or waves that are measured in cycles per second (cps). The amount of brain wave activity determines the level of mind or functioning. They are: beta, alpha, theta, delta, and deep delta.
The first level of brain wave function is beta or conscious state of mind. At this level of mind the brain wave functions between 15 to 40 cps. A person operating at this level is focused on the world around them usually performing daily tasks such as work, television, reading the newspaper. The average person usually stays in this level of mind during their waking day. As one becomes more spiritually inquisitive awareness of the other states of mind or brain wave function become apparent. This is considered in the spiritual realm to be the lowest level of functioning. However, it is necessary to be in this state at some point in order to perform activities of daily living such as food, water, bathing, dressing etc. Therefore, while many of the modern day spiritualists tend to minimize the need to operate at this level, it is an important function in survival.
The second level of mind is sub consciousness or alpha brain wave state. Operating at 9 to 14 cps it is this state of mind that most will be in when taking a break from work. Simply just relaxing for a moment before returning back to a higher level of mind. It is also in this state of mind that we tend to stop for a moment and smell the roses, enjoy a leisure walk or admire the beauty that surrounds us. This is also the level of mind where all past experiences are stored and kept for later processing or use. One could equate it to a computer chip that records or registers everything we experience.
The next level (third) is the sub-subconscious or theta brain wave state. This level operates at approximately 5 to 8 cps. It is a very relaxed state of mind similar to a normal meditation level, or hypnotic level. It is at this point one can easily access the subconscious brain in order to work out problems, find solutions, relax the body and perform certain levels of personal healing. This is the perfect level for evolvement, learning to act instead of react and to take control of our life experience.
The fourth and fifth levels of functioning called delta (subsuper- and super-consciousness) correlate together and often mix with the third level of mind (theta/sub-subconciousness ). It is unfortunate that modern science has not named our dream state separately from the sleep state. In dream state (also known as REM sleep or subsuperconciousness), we are in delta/sleep mode but brain wave patterns often move up to theta level. It is at this level of subsuperconsciousness that we will have psychic or intuitive flashes, perhaps feel a deeper connection to the ethereal world and attain the ability to access the power of healing. Often this is where pranic healing is performed, astral travel, and other out of body experiences are engaged. This is the source of true creativity, inspiration, perfect timing in life's experiences. It is a level of blissful interaction with others.
Deep delta (or super-consciousness) functions at a brain wave cycle of approximately 1 ½ to 4 cps. Although deep delta also fluctuates within the realm of delta and subsuper and superconciousness. According to western science it is this level where there is no known thought process. There is only the void or vastness of space. In the spiritual realm, this is the level where one attains all knowledge of oneness and connectiveness to the universe.
It is at this level that the musician hears and feels the beauty of the music as each note connects to the other. From a Tantra perspective, one could say this is when Kundalini has risen and remains risen. It is the ultimate objective, the Godhead, the knowledge of all things as one.
Tantra gives so many techniques that help us learn awareness of the different levels of mind. As we move forward to each level, we find transformation within self and peace within our life. Allowing us to share even more openly and lovingly with our partners. Thus, the dance of sexual bliss becomes one of personal transformation so that two become as one.
May you reach the level of mind you desire and find bliss in all things.
Om Shanti,
Akasha
created 10/06/2008
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