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Do you know how sleep works? Most people don’t really think about it until they’re not getting enough of it. Sleep is a mysterious process that happens every night, and scientists are still working to figure out all the details. In this article, we will discuss the different stages of sleep and what happens during each stage. By understanding how sleep works, you can better manage your sleep schedule and get the most out of your slumber!
Most people are familiar with the concept of REM sleep, or dream sleep, but there are actually four different stages of sleep that our bodies cycle through over the course of a night.
The first stage is light sleep, during which we may drift in and out of consciousness and our muscles are only lightly relaxed. In this stage, you drift in and out of sleep and can be easily woken up. This is the phase of sleep that most people experience when they’re trying to fall asleep.
As we move into the second stage, our breathing becomes regular and our heart rate begins to slow. This is still a light sleep, but our bodies are beginning to prepare for the deeper stages of sleep.
The third stage is a deep sleep, during which it becomes very difficult to wake someone up. This is when our bodies do most of their repair work, including muscle growth and tissue repair as well as when growth hormones are released.
Finally, we enter REM sleep, during which our brains are very active, and we have our most vivid dreams. It’s also thought to be an important sleep stage for learning and memory formation.
Each stage of sleep serves an important purpose, and it’s important to get enough of each stage in order to feel rested and refreshed. There are many things you can do to improve your sleep habits, including setting a regular bedtime, avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed, and avoiding screens for at least an hour before bed.
If you’re not getting quality sleep in each of the stages, it’s important to take action to improve your sleeping habits and routine, so you can feel and operate at your best. It’s always advised that you consult with your doctor if you’re experiencing chronic sleep problems. At Queensland Sleep we have a team of trained sleep professionals who are always on hand to discuss your sleep-related concerns and help you address what might be going on so that you can get the support you need to enjoy improved sleep. Just call us on 1800 717 566 and we’ll be happy to assist you.