Although your sleep may seem like one linear process, nothing could be further from the truth. Each night, you go through 3 to 5 sleep cycles, each consisting of four stages. One of these is REM sleep. This phase plays an important role in processing the stimuli you experience during the day and is therefore essential. We’re happy to tell you more and share 4 facts and myths about REM sleep.
Before diving into the facts and myths, let’s answer the question: what is REM sleep? REM sleep is the final stage of the four phases in a sleep cycle and follows the drowsy stage, light sleep and deep sleep. REM stands for Rapid Eye Movement. During this phase, your eyes move quickly back and forth beneath your closed eyelids. At the same time, your muscles are completely relaxed while brain activity increases. During REM sleep, the events and impressions of the day are processed. This makes REM sleep essential for memory, emotional processing and even your mood.
A full sleep cycle lasts about 90 to 120 minutes, and you go through 3 to 5 of these cycles each night. The duration of REM sleep varies greatly and depends in part on how the earlier stages unfold. REM sleep can last as little as 5 minutes or as long as 45 minutes. In most cases, REM stages are shorter in the first cycles of the night and become longer in the final cycles. Now that you know the basics of REM sleep, it’s time for the facts and myths.
This is a fact. REM sleep and dreaming are closely connected. In fact, REM sleep is often referred to as dream sleep. Dreams during REM sleep are particularly vivid, and you’re more likely to remember them upon waking. This differs from dreams in other sleep stages, which you often don’t recall.
This is a myth. After each REM phase, you often wake up briefly, usually without realizing it. The sleep cycle then starts again at stage one and continues through all four phases. It is also possible to wake up during REM sleep. In some cases, this can lead to sleep paralysis.
With sleep paralysis, something goes wrong in the transition between sleeping and waking. Because your brain is highly active during REM sleep while your muscles remain fully relaxed, you may experience the unsettling sensation of being awake but unable to move. Some people also feel pressure on their chest or experience hallucinations. It can be frightening, but fortunately it is harmless and usually brief.
This is a fact. It is definitely possible to improve your REM sleep. Maintaining a consistent sleep routine, getting enough physical activity during the day and sleeping in a dark, quiet room are essential. Caffeine and alcohol also affect the quality of your sleep. Want to know more about improving your sleep and falling asleep faster? Read our blog with 5 helpful tips.
We’ll end with a statement that is neither a fact nor a myth. If you ask, “Which is more important: REM sleep or deep sleep?” there isn’t one clear answer. REM sleep follows deep sleep, and both stages are crucial for your body and mind. On average, you spend about 10 to 25% of the night in deep sleep and around 25% in REM sleep. Deep sleep is known for its restorative function. During this phase, muscles and bones recover and grow, while your heart rate and awareness are at their lowest. REM sleep, on the other hand, is essential for brain development and emotional processing. It’s no coincidence that babies spend about half of their sleep in REM. In short, both stages are incredibly important.
Sources: SamenGezond, Gezondheidsnet, PlusOnline & Hersenstichting
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