The placement of sensors on the scalp allows for the measurement of brainwave patterns that reflect the current state of an individual. The best studied brainwave frequencies range from the delta frequencies (1-4 Hertz), which is used to induce deep sleep; to theta frequencies (4-8 Hertz) which is used to induce light sleep, creativity, and insight; to alpha frequencies (8-12 Hertz) used to create a calm and peaceful yet alert state; to beta frequencies (13-21 Hertz) that are associated with a thinking, focusing state; to high beta frequencies (20-32 Hertz), which are associated with intensity and anxiety.
Research has shown that a consistent rhythmic pulsating light or a tone, within the 8 - 10 Hertz range will cause brainwaves in the occipital lobe (this is where your vision is located), parietal lobe (this part of the brain is where the bodily sensations are held) to exhibit a frequency-following response that either repeated in a series of reflected sound waves with the existing stimulus (stimulus means something that causes you to take action) or shows a frequency balance of a stimulus.
There are many researchers who believe that the same process or technique can apply to other frequencies, but this has been harder to substantiate. Although, recent research suggests the the baseline electroencrephalogram or EEG, or emotional unstability may have an influence on the post-stimulus EEG changes. Most researchers do agree that the emotional or cognitive changes do correlate with the changes in the EEG but how or whether the EEG changes are likely to be dependent on the individual's current state.
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