Ranging from deep sleep to intense mental activity, various states of consciousness are experienced by humans everyday. This continuum of consciousness correlates with electrical activity in the brain; the frequency of brainwaves can be measured in cycles per second (Hz) with an electroencephalogram (EEG). These brainwave states are categorized as the following:

Beta: 12-30 Hz. Normal waking state in adults. Active thinking and planning. This is where the ego resides.

Alpha: 7-12 Hz. Reflective, relaxed state usually with closed eyes. A day dream state.

Theta: 4-7 Hz. Deep meditative state. A place of creativity and envelopment in the present. A dream state associated with REM sleep.

Delta: 0.5-4 Hz. Deep sleep. A place of regeneration and healing.

By simultaneously combining the sounds of two didgeridoos, a desired state of consciousness can be induced in the listener. For example, when one didgeridoo is played in the key of Bb (fundamental frequency of 58 Hz) and a second didgeridoo is played in the key of C (65 Hz), the difference between the frequencies is manifested as a subtle pulsing (in this case 7 Hz). The listener's dominant brainwave state will sync with this pulsation in a frequency-following response known as brainwave entrainment.

This phenomenon was recorded by Didge Project and released as their album, Didgeridoo Meditation: An Odyssey Through Consciousness. Didge Project also developed a workshop based on these principles, "The Didgeridoo and Expanded Awareness," which has been taught at Integral Yoga Institute in New York. To read a description of this workshop, visit the past events on our calendar page: