We all know the importance of getting a good night’s sleep. But have you ever thought about what happens if we don’t get enough rem sleep? This deep, restorative stage of sleep is essential for optimal mental and physical health, but when we don’t get enough, it takes a toll on our bodies. In this blog post, we’ll explore how our body feels without REM sleep and also delve into the various consequences of not getting enough rem sleep.
What is REM Sleep?
REM is a stage of sleep in which the brain is highly active and dreams occur. REM stands for “rapid eye movement.” During this type of sleep, the eyes move rapidly from side to side. Other changes during it include increased breathing rate, heart rate, and blood pressure.
Most people spend about 20% of their sleep time in this sleep. The first period of it typically occurs about 70 minutes after falling asleep. Each successive period of this one becomes longer, with the final period lasting up to an hour.
What Happens to Our Body Without REM Sleep?
REM sleep is responsible for a number of important functions, including:
• Regulation of hormones
• Muscle repair
• Brain activity during this type of sleep has been linked with improved memory and learning
Without REM sleep, our bodies would not be able to perform these essential tasks. This can lead to a number of health problems, including:
• Increased risk of obesity
• High blood pressure
• Memory problems and impaired learning ability
• Mood disorders such as depression and anxiety
The Different Stages of Sleep
REM sleep is the stage of sleep when we dream. It’s when our brains are most active and we may have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. Non-REM sleep, on the other hand, is when we are not dreaming. This is the stage of sleep when our brains are least active and we can easily fall asleep and stay asleep.
The Dangers of Not Getting Enough REM Sleep
This sleeps type is critical for our physical and mental health. Without enough it, we can feel irritable, anxious, and depressed. We may also have difficulty concentrating and remembering things. Our immune system can suffer, making us more susceptible to colds and other illnesses. In addition, we may be at greater risk for accidents and injuries.
How to Get More of It
REM sleep is a critical part of our sleep cycle, and without it, we can feel groggy, unfocused, and irritable. If you’re looking for ways to get more of it, there are a few things you can do:
– Make sure you’re getting enough sleep overall. Our bodies need around 8 hours of sleep per night, and if we’re not hitting that mark, we’re likely to experience less deep, restful sleep overall – including less this type of sleep.
– Create a relaxing bedtime routine. wind down for at least 30 minutes before going to bed, and avoid screens (phones, laptops, TVs) during this time. Instead, read a book or listen to calming music to help your body transition into sleep mode.
– Keep a regular sleep schedule. Our bodies like predictability, so try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day (even on weekends!). This will help regulate your internal clock and make it easier to fall asleep – and stay asleep – through the night.
Conclusion
We have seen how vital REM sleep is for our bodies and the consequences of deprivation. Without adequate sleep, we can suffer from a lack of energy, concentration issues, and mood swings, and may even experience health issues in the long run. It is essential that we get enough quality rest each night to keep our bodies running at an optimal level. Thank you for reading!
