Over time there have been many Philosophers and Thinkers (including the ancients) who have puzzled over what the mind is and how it works for humans. This self-same investigation is going on today. Modern science has assisted greatly.

The idea of the “split mind” is a modern theory which seems to make sense. In essence this theory posits that one side of our brain (mind) is more suited to one set of situations or ideas, and the other side has other capabilities.

Thus, one often hears about “thinking with the right side of the brain.”. This means that the person doing the thinking is in contact with the right side of the brain where the thinking takes place. OK, but, what about the left side of the brain?

The duties of the brain’s left side are more about control and regulation. This is where the pilot is piloting the body and watching what is going on. Bodily functions are controlled and regulated, here.

It is believed that very little “thinking” goes on in the busy left side. The left side is more like daily micro management of the body.

New methods of “looking into” the brain have brought about some very elegant and smart ideas. The split brain idea has been studied extensively and continues.

That poses the question, How difficult is it to look inside the living brain? After all, the brain is relatively inaccessible inside its bony cover.

Looking into the brain can be as simple as seeing where the blood flow is going while the human subject is doing something or thinking about something. Where the blood flows, there is where the action is taking place.

In the living brain, researchers look for blood flow. Where blood flow is greatest, that is exactlywhere a specific mental activity is taking place at that moment in the human brain.

Lots of “brain mapping” has taken place as a result of these discoveries. Therefore, we know quite accurately where sound or sight are being processed by the brain. We also know where certain other thought processes take place.

Today, there is a more complicated way to find our way around the brain. This is to monitor electrical signals which are generated when synapses fire as thoughts move around. Synapses are areas where tiny electrical charges move from synapse to synapse as we think. Our brains are biological electrical organs in the body. This phenomenon has been extensively studied. Many useful discoveries have been made.

A fairly recent discovery which has been the basis of much additional work is the study of brain waves. There are four types.

BETA – As the fastest waves they represent the most intense alertness state. Beta shows mental activity is taking place right now. When we are up and doing things and are fully awake we are”in Beta”.

ALPHA – This brain wave indicates a relaxed mind. It is a meditative mind. The Right and the Left brain are said to be working together in Alpha. Alpha is a good state to be in to learn things fast and for test taking. Psychic/mental states of mind can occur. Here are seen visions, powerful ideas and even the creation of the incredible.

THETA – Deep meditation. A high state of mental concentration which is associated with life-like imagination. A magical mind. This brain wave is best for suggestibility and inspiration. Oddly, being in Theta is dominant in children of ages 2 to 5.

DELTA – When you are in this state you are in a deep, dreamless sleep. When you are in Delta you are deeply relaxed. There may be some things which can be accomplished in this dreamless state.

Most of those who work with the brain attempt do it while their subject is in the Alpha state. Alpha generates a quiet, calm feeling in people. Being in Alpha may cause people to become more likely to cooperate with ideas or others.

The brain (mind), it has been said, can influence people to become more serene. And, to be more creative. And further, to influence our bodies via our mind. Others disagree with this mind/body view, saying that is a far stretch. But, others disagree and cite examples of seeming miracles taking place initiated by the mind. Investigation of mind/body effects is going on now.

Disclaimer ” Information included here is not meant to diagnose, treat, mitigate or cure any condition or disease. You should consult with your doctor or medical adviser before using. No information given here is approved by any government agency. It is for educational purpose only.