Theta Balance
The purpose of this document is to assist you in understanding how to balance your theta, upward or downward, to improve your circadian rhythm and ultimately sharpen your focus and concentration.
Why Theta Balance?
If your theta ratio is less than 1.7 or above 3.0 in one or more areas of your brain, you may be interested in some secondary interventions to encourage balance of this restful brain wave.
When theta is imbalanced (outside of 1.7-3.0), there is typically a disruption in your “circadian rhythm,” or your sleep/wake cycle — you may not even be aware of this, but your theta ratios tell all. If your theta is below 1.7, you may notice energy loss and fatigue. If your theta is above 3.0, you may suffer from poor focus, inattention and distractability.
Theta Ratio 1.38
Theta Ratio 3.90
Circadian Rhythm
Our circadian rhythm is set by the sun and maintained by melatonin and other secondary hormones. Healthy circadian rhythm has a deep sleep cycle and a high awake cycle — the green wave below represents a healthy circadian rhythm. An unhealthy circadian rhythm (theta outside of 1.7-3.0) has very shallow amplitudes of both sleep and wake cycles — the dotted wave below represents an unhealthy circadian rhythm.
Theta Balance Practice
Biolight Therapy
Biolight therapy should occur within two hours of awakening and last for 20-30 minutes. We have seen incredible results over the past ten years with this noninvasive technique. The biolight used must be the blue spectrum of the light waves and have an intensity of over 10,000 lumens. You can use the light while eating breakfast, working on the computer, reading the paper or while laying in bed (even with your eyes closed). Exposure to the light signals your brain to stop releasing melatonin (our main sleep hormone) and start producing serotonin (our main wake hormone). Neurocore recommends a light made by Philips called the “goLITE BLU.”
The following link will direct you to the Philips website: www.usa.philips.com.
Melatonin Supplementation
Melatonin supplementation should include 3-5 mg of melatonin one hour before bedtime. Melatonin can be purchased in the health food or vitamin section of your grocery store or pharmacy. Some individuals have found increased success with a sustained release melatonin. While melatonin is not a drug and has very few side effects, you may want to consult with your physician or pharmacist if you are taking other supplements or medications.
Neurocore strongly recommends integrating the energy light with the Melatonin for best results. These two interventions are specifically designed to address the awake and sleep cycles of our circadian rhythm. The biolight naturally increases the amplitude of the awake cycle through light exposure and melatonin supplementation improves the depth of our sleep cycle by augmenting our body’s natural resting hormones.
Need More Help?
Neurocore is committed to helping you balance your theta, improve your circadian rhythm, and optimize your brain’s functioning. If you have additional questions or need further assistance, feel free to contact our clinical nurse, Amy Royer at amy.royer@theneurocore.com.
