The Role of REM Sleep in Our Health
Getting a healthy amount of sleep each night has a number of important benefits. It helps boost our productivity, improve our memory and decision-making capabilities, and promote mental and physical health. Among all of the many facets of sleep, Rapid-Eye Movement (REM) sleep is possibly the most important of all. REM sleep plays a large role in our physical and mental health, greatly affecting our overall wellbeing.
One of the primary benefits of REM sleep is the process by which it helps us to better retain learned mindfulness and information. During this stage of sleep, the brain is optimized to better form memories, regulate emotions, and process learned information. This is key for their normal functioning of the brain and advancement of creative problem-solving.
REM sleep is also known for helping the body heal. During this state, the body produces hormones that contribute to tissue and muscle repair. The ample rest and relaxation derived during this stage of sleep also helps keep the immune system functioning properly and can even reduce pain levels.
Beneficial Impacts On Mental Health
The effects of REM on mental health are largely attributed to its capability to keep stress levels low. The ability of REM sleep to regulate our emotional responses and provide stress-fighting hormones can do a lot to address potential depression, anxiety attacks, and mood swings. Also, the consistent production of Serotonin and Norepinephrine, hormones known to induce feelings of happiness and satisfaction, can do a lot in keeping emotional health balanced.
Sleep deprivation can also easily to mental health issues, with even a few days of missed sleep representing a large potential for mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety, and aggression. This is why the regular occurrence of REM sleep is essential for proper neurological functioning and positive focus during the day.
Negative Impacts of Not Getting Enough REM
Patients who suffer from sleep disorders such as insomnia or sleep apnea are likely to suffer from irregular REM cycles. This can cause disruptions to learning, memory, emotional control, and the vital functions that help keep our minds and bodies functioning properly. Inconsistent REM patterns can easily spawn depression, exhaustion, and feelings of stress or fatigue.
A lack of REM sleep can also lead to chaos in our natural daily rhythms, leaving us feeling unrested and possibly causing mood swings. It can also reduce our natural immunity to illness and disease, as the body doesn’t get the necessary rest. This can then result in frequent colds, sore throats, and other illnesses.
In addition, insomnia can mess up our melatonin, a hormone known to regulate our sleeping patterns. Low melatonin levels can cause disorganization and obstruction to our circadian rhythms, leading to feelings of tiredness and exhaustion throughout the day.
Key Sleep Habits to Observe
- Stick to a consistent sleep schedule
- Cut out any stimulants before bed
- Create a peaceful environment conducive for sleep
- Exercise regularly to regulate our hormones
- Limit exposure to screens before bedtime
Conclusion
It’s clear that REM sleep plays an important role in our physical and mental health. To maintain a healthy sleep cycle, it’s important to maintain healthy sleep habits and look out for any potential disorders that could disrupt our REM cycles. In this way, we can ensure our overall wellbeing and quality of life.