Alpha-Theta Breathing
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 Want to get the most out of your guided-imagery?

Use alpha-theta breathing to achieve total relaxation.

People who do yoga and meditation have used the breath to alter their brain wave patterns for centuries.
Historically there are four major types of distinct brainwave patterns that can be measured by EEG (electroencephalography).

* Beta waves which are associated with normal waking consciousness, including busy or anxious thinking.

* Alpha waves which are associated with relaxation when the eyes are closed but still awake. These patterns are found to originate from the occipital lobe of the brain and are thought to represent the activity of the visual cortex in an idle state.

* Theta waves which are associated with deep daydreams, lucid dreaming, light sleep and hypnosis

* Delta waves are found naturally during deep sleep.

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Beta rhythm breathing is normal everyday breathing. You are simply breathing in and out. It is also typically shallow breathing using only the top 1/3 of the chest.

Alpha-Theta breathing is different.

By focusing on breathing not only into the lungs but also deep into the belly you are actually filling your lungs with more oxygen.

You also slow your breath.

Inhale through your nose for a count of 8

Hold for a count of 8

Exhale slowly for a count of 8

If 8 seems too long then start with counts of 5.

The purpose of slowing your breath and using more of your lungs is to gently guide the body into relaxation.

Once you feel comfortable you can shorten the inhale to 4, hold for 16 and then exhale for 8.

By consciously focusing on inhaling deeply into the belly and lengthening the time you hold the breath.  It will allow you to reach alpha and theta levels which are ideal for guided imagery and hypnosis.