Delta

Delta (2-4 Hz) Power

Delta Rule

We penalize posterior and frontal Delta, as increases in Delta are associated with drowsiness, rest, and regeneration (Dunn et al. 1999). Anapana is an activating practice where one develops single-pointed concentration on the breath. Therefore, rewarding less Delta (an inhibitory frequency) aids in staving off sleepiness and promoting activation in focus areas of the brain. Furthermore, less Delta across the brain during concentration signals a mind that is less distracted in meditation than during normal waking states (Cahn et al. 2013).

Delta Weights

Level 1 and 2 Anapana meditators are assigned a rule weight of -1. Slow-frequency drowsiness is more apparent at these levels as these meditators are still developing the raw conscious power of sustained attention and one-pointed concentration. Higher levels are not assigned a rule weight as there is less of a need to stay away from Delta with expertise.