What Is Alpha Meditation?

Alpha meditation describes a particular state of mind, which can be achieved by meditating. This type of meditating involves strong mental focus and doing meditation to reach an alpha state of mind. In this mental state, the brain experiences deep relaxation identical to the level that occurs during sleep. Doing alpha meditation can bring about a number of positive results, including stress relief, mental clarity, and an overall sense of well-being.

An alpha state of mind represents an altered state of consciousness, where a person is not fully awake but is not asleep either. Since the alpha state can be reached naturally while sleeping, some think that this type of meditation requires no guidance, but entering this state during sleep happens subconsciously, without our knowledge. Achieving the alpha state consciously requires deep concentration, total relaxation, reducing the pulse, and completely clearing the mind. Few people can do this easily, and learning to reach alpha levels involves education, training, preparation, and practice.

Learning alpha meditation requires strong commitment and sound training. A variety of different meditation techniques may be used to achieve the alpha state, and the most important aspect of this style of meditating is concentration. This style of meditating typically appeals to more advanced practitioners, since it requires a practiced and high level of attentiveness. Beginners may find it difficult to be calm, focused, and still long enough to achieve an alpha state of mind.

The process for doing alpha meditation involves a number of steps to reach the deepest levels of inner consciousness. Some practitioners use specific beats to guide their journey into the desired state, while others use relaxing music or a favorite meditation mantra. Deep breathing is a vital part of alpha meditation, and the process requires comfort and calm.

A typical alpha meditation session can last from 10 minutes for beginners to 30 minutes or longer for experienced practitioners. The session begins with deep, slow breathing, inhaling through the nose, and exhaling through the mouth. Each exhaled breath represents negativity being released, while inhalation introduces freshness and positivity. The breathing leads to a planned visualization, which focuses, empties, and calms the mind and brings on the alpha state.

Regularly practicing alpha meditation can provide a variety of health benefits, including lower stress levels. Reduced stress can decrease the risk for a number of serious illnesses, such as high blood pressure, heart problems, and cancer. Many types of meditation provide mental benefits that can help practitioners deal with conflict, anxiety, and depression. Clarity of mind often leads to easier decision making, better memory, and more balanced thinking.