Ever wondered what it would be like to fall into a deep sleep and step into the world of dreams?Welcome to the interesting world of REM sleep.REM sleep is an enigmatic phase of sleeping.REM or rapid eye movement sleep is a significant component of night-time rest and plays a major role in our general well-being.
Let us delve into the amazing world of REM sleep to understand why it is so crucial.
What is REM sleep?
Rapid eye movements, increased brain activity and vivid dreaming characterize REM sleep that is one stage out of five in the sleep cycle.This stage usually happens about 90 minutes after going to bed and repeats itself several times throughout the night with each subsequent REM period lasting longer than its preceding one.
The brain remains active during REM sleep like when awake, thus making this stage prone to vivid dreaming.
The Science Behind REM Sleep
Different research has shown that there are cognitive functions as learning, memory consolidation, emotional regulation that are important for (or “that require”)rem sleep.
According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), Rapid Eye Movement(R.E.M) sleep helps the brain to process, file and retrieve information that can be useful later in life. Besides, this stage of sleeping is believed to be related to creativity as well as problem solving.
Significance of REM Sleep
Adequate sleep with R-E-M is necessary for good mental health and physical wellness.Moreover, it was found that lack of REM sleep made people susceptible to different issues ranging from memory loss, low levels of concentration and high stress level.
For instance, a study published in sleep journal showed that a person denied R.E.M has mood impairment as well as cognitive disabilities (Source: https://academic.oup.com/sleep/article/40/1/zsw007/2662877).
Mental Health Implications for REM Sleep
This relationship between rapid eye movement sleep and mental health remains intriguing.
The research points out that emotional regulation together with processing largely depends on rapid eye movement type of sleep.
According to a study done by California university Berkeley,there are reduced emotional tones in rememorized dreams making it easier to withstand or even forget those times one went through stressing experiences(Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3065084/).
Different Viewpoints About REM Sleep
Although there is consensus among scientists about the significance of rem sleep during the night.
Improving REM Sleep To enhance your REM sleep, there are various strategies.Having a stable sleep schedule, establishing a relaxing routine before bedtime, and reducing exposure to screens in the evening can help you to achieve better sleep quality.Then also maintain good sleep hygiene habits.
Keep your bedroom cool and dark for more refreshing sleeping hours.
Conclusion
This is an amazing stage of the sleep cycle that is highly connected with our mental and emotional well-being in general terms—REM sleep.Understanding why it matters and finding ways to better it will enable you have the best possible rest at night as well as live a healthier life style.
Thus, bear in mind that when you close your eyes and go to bed next time your brain has much work to do: process memories, control emotions as well as get you ready for new day challenges.
Sources:
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS): https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Understanding-Sleep
- Sleep Journal: https://academic.oup.com/sleep/article/40/1/zsw007/2662877
- University of California, Berkeley Study: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3065084/
Sweet dreams and happy sleeping! 🌙✨
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