Sleep occurs naturally in humans and influences the body and mind. While sleeping, the body has less sensory activity, altered consciousness, and reduced activity in muscles. The whole body is resting. Sleep alternates between two patterns, REM and non-REM sleep. Different things happen and don’t happen during these two sleep patterns.
REM Sleep
During this sleep mode, the body is in virtual paralysis and an anabolic state. Bodily systems are resting and dreams can occur. While dreaming, the experience will feel real, but when awake, the dream will be realized as fantasy.
REM sleep helps to restore the nervous, muscular, immune, and nervous systems. All vital processes need to be maintained and REM sleep mode keeps the memory, mood, and cognitive functions healthy.
Non-REM Sleep
Non-REM sleep is very different from REM sleep. This is the first wave of sleep. The body’s heart rate and temperature will fall, and less energy will be used by the brain.
REM (rapid-eye-movement) sleep represents the smaller part of sleeping time. One cycle of REM and non-REM sleep takes about 90 minutes. There can be between 4 and 6 cycles in a good night’s sleep.
A Good Night’s Sleep
A good night’s sleep is as important as exercise and healthy eating.
Not sleeping well is linked to gaining weight. Poor sleep is also associated with a bigger risk of stroke and heart disease. Depression and other mental health issues are linked directly to sleeping disorders and poor quality of sleep.
Sleeping well can improve productivity and concentration as well as performance. Sleep improves immune function. The bottom line is that a good night’s sleep is one of the pillars of good health and can change a lot of negatives into positives.