The way we sleep is an essential part of living a healthy and balanced lifestyle. And while the average person sleeps for around 8 hours per night, the stages of sleep we endure can greatly affect how we feel afterwards. As such, it’s important to understand the science and mechanics of sleeping, and how it all works.
One complete sleep cycle can range anywhere from 90 to 110 minutes and is broken up into several great stages. With different types of body functions changing at varying times of the night, each of these stages helps the body feel well-rested and energized.
The National Sleep Foundation explains that it is important to understand each of the stages of sleep because together, they can work to make us feel our best. There are four main stages of sleep that our bodies use throughout the night to rejuvenate.
What Are The Four Stages of Sleep?
The first stage of sleep is called Non-Rapid Eye Movement (NREM). This state is also known as quiet sleep, and it’s the period where our body prepares for deeper stages of sleep. The second stage is known as NREM. During NREM, the body transitions into a deeper, lighter sleep. It is during this stage that we enter a dream state, known as REM.
The third stage, REM sleep, is the most common state of sleep and is associated with active dreaming. In this state, our eyes tend to move from side to side while muscles remain relaxed and relatively inactive. As the night progresses, our body is slowly transitioning from one stage to the next.
How is Sleep Affected by Lifestyle Factors?
Although each stage of sleep serves an essential purpose, the amount we get varies greatly based on our lifestyle habits. This includes how much food and alcohol we consume, how much light we’re exposed to, and how much physical exercise we undertake.
By understanding the stages of sleep and how they’re affected by lifestyle factors, you can make changes to promote better sleep patterns. Try to implement good sleep hygiene practices into your daily routine, such as avoiding large meals and fatty foods before bedtime, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and engaging in calming activities like yoga and reading. These practices can help your body relax and ease into deeper stages of sleep.
Finally, aim to keep a consistent sleep schedule. This will help you get more quality sleep, and it will also help your body recognize and utilize the stages of sleep more effectively.
Tips For Getting Great Sleep
- Sleep in a cool, dark, and quiet room
- Avoid looking at screens for at least 30 minutes before bed
- Use blackout curtains if necessary
- Exercise regularly, but not right before bed
- Calm your mind before bed with deep breathing, reading, or meditating
Conclusion
Understanding the four stages of sleep is essential to a good night’s sleep. By taking steps such as avoiding screens before bed, exercising regularly, and creating a sleep schedule, you can ensure your body is getting the rest it needs. Remember, the better slept you are, the better you will feel.