What is REM Sleep
REM sleep, or rapid eye movement sleep, is the deepest stage of the sleep cycle. It is marked by rapid eye and muscle twitching and is associated with dreaming. It usually occurs after non-REM sleep, which is the non-rapid eye movement sleep period before REM stage. During REM sleep, the brain becomes more active, the body is still, and blood flow to the brain is increased.
REM sleep is experienced during the later stages of a sleep cycle, which includes four stages. The first two are light sleep stages, followed by the third and fourth stages, known as the deep sleep cycles. A sleep cycle usually takes between 90 and 110 minutes. During REM sleep, the body is largely disconnected from the outside world. Brain waves become erratic, which is why this type of sleep is often referred to as dream sleep.
On average, people spend around 25 percent of their total sleep time in the REM stage. This stage of sleep is also known to help in the development of learning and memory. REM sleep is important for physical and mental health. Without it, a person’s mood, thinking, and cognitive processes are greatly affected.
Functions of REM Sleep
REM sleep plays an important role in cognitive development by allowing us to process and store information. During this stage, our brain organizes and stores all the experiences and information we gained during the day. As a result, this helps improve our intellectual capacity, cognitive clarity, and overall aptitude.
REM sleep also helps to promote our physical growth and development. During REM sleep, the body produces various hormones, including growth hormones, which help in cell repair and the building of new muscles. REM sleep is also important for our immune system, as it helps to regulate our body’s defenses against viruses and other harmful pathogens.
Importance of REM Sleep
REM sleep is extremely important for our physical and mental well-being. Without REM sleep, our bodies cannot properly restore and repair cells. Additionally, REM sleep helps in maintaining emotional health and balance, as it helps to manage physical and psychological stress.
REM sleep is also important in allowing us to consolidate memories so that we are better able to recall them in the future. Without REM sleep, we are unable to store and retrieve information in an efficient and effective manner. Last but not least, REM sleep has a direct connection to creativity; it helps increase the activity between brain cells, which may enhance creative problem-solving.
Effects of Not Getting Enough REM Sleep
If a person does not get enough REM sleep, they may experience:
- Fatigue and tiredness
- Problems concentrating
- Irritability and mood changes
- Affecect on cognitive ability
- Impaired immune system function
Conclusion
REM sleep plays an important role in physical and mental health. Without it, a person’s overall well-being is significantly impacted. Getting an adequate amount of REM sleep is vital for growth and development, as well as for a number of cognitive and emotional functions.