Sleep is an essential part of our lives, helping our body and mind recover. There are different stages of sleep, and one of the most important is REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep. This stage plays a key role in memory, learning and emotional health.
Read on to discover and its importance.
What happens during REM sleep?
REM sleep is a stage where the brain is very active, almost as if you are awake. This is the stage when most dreams occur. Here’s what happens during REM sleep:
- Rapid eye movement: Your eyes move quickly in different directions under your eyelids.
- Increased brain activity: Your brain becomes more active, similar to when you are awake.
- Dreaming: Most vivid dreams happen during this stage.
- Muscle relaxation: Your body stays still and relaxed, preventing you from acting out dreams.
- Irregular breathing and heart rate: Your breathing and heart rate become faster and less regular.
Typically, REM sleep begins 90 minutes after falling asleep and occurs repeatedly throughout the night.
Importance of REM sleep
REM sleep is crucial for several reasons. It supports both mental and physical well-being. Here’s the REM sleep’s importance:
- Memory and learning: Helps store new information and improves problem-solving skills.
- Emotional balance: Supports mental health and reduces stress and anxiety.
- Brain development: Essential for brain growth, especially in babies and young children.
- Creativity: Enhances creative thinking and decision-making.
- Physical health: Helps maintain a healthy immune system and balances hormones.
If you do not get enough REM sleep, you may feel tired, struggle to concentrate and have mood swings.
Conclusion
REM sleep is crucial in helping the brain process information, manage emotions and support overall well-being. Without enough REM sleep, both mental and physical health can suffer. To improve the sleep quality, it's important to have a regular sleep schedule, manage stress effectively and avoid screens before bedtime.
It’s essential to complement healthy sleeping habits with a balanced diet, regular exercise and routine medical check-ups. Comprehensive health insurance can cover these consultations, diagnoses and treatments, easing financial worries and providing peace of mind. For older adults, senior citizen health insurance can offer the care needed to maintain good health and stay active.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.