Exploring the Stages of Sleep: Understanding REM and Non-REM

Dear Valued Phiten Customers,


Welcome back to our newsletter. Starting this week, we are dedicating a series to the vital topic of sleep. In this issue, we will delve into different aspects of sleep, from the basic cycles to the deep connections between sleep and overall well-being. Our journey begins with a closer look at the two fundamental types of sleep: Rapid Eye Movement (REM) and Non-Rapid Eye Movement (Non-REM) sleep. Each type plays an indispensable role in our health, influencing everything from cognitive functions to physical recovery.


Understanding Sleep Cycles and Architecture

Sleep progresses through a series of cycles, each comprising different stages from light to deep sleep, and then reversing back to REM, where dreams are most vivid. These cycles repeat several times throughout the night, typically lasting between 90 to 120 minutes each. The architecture of these cycles—visualizable through a hypnogram—reveals the pattern of transitioning through various sleep depths and is pivotal for understanding our overall sleep quality.

*Note: In this diagram, Stage 3 and Stage 4 are shown as separate stages. It is important to note that in current sleep science, these have been combined into a single stage known as N3 or deep sleep. This change reflects a refined understanding of sleep stages.

Detailed Look at Sleep Types: REM and Non-REM

REM Sleep:

• Characteristics: Marked by rapid eye movements and significant brain activity, REM sleep is when dreams are most vivid. It begins roughly 90 minutes after falling asleep and recurs with increasing duration toward morning.
• Functions: Essential for cognitive functions like memory and emotion processing, REM sleep revitalizes the mind, supporting learning and mental health

Non-REM Sleep:

• Characteristics: Encompasses three stages—N1 (light sleep), N2, and N3 (deep sleep), each deeper than the last. As you transition from light to deep sleep, bodily functions slow down, allowing for physical renewal.
• Functions: Dominating the earlier parts of the night, non-REM sleep is crucial for physical recovery, tissue repair, and growth hormone release.

Stages of Non-REM Sleep:

• Stage 1 (N1): This initial light sleep stage serves as the gateway to deeper sleep stages, marked by slowing brain activity and ease of disruption.
• Stage 2 (N2): During this stage, there is a further reduction in heart rate and respiration. Muscles relax more deeply, and brain activity begins to show bursts of rapid waves known as sleep spindles, making this stage less prone to disturbances.
• Stage 3 and Stage 4 (N3*): Previously recognized as separate stages, Stage 3 and Stage 4 have been reclassified and combined into a single deep sleep stage under modern sleep medicine standards. This combined stage represents the deepest, most restorative sleep, characterized by slow delta waves interspersed with smaller, faster waves. During this stage, the body repairs tissues, builds bone and muscle, and strengthens the immune system.

The Cycle's Progression:

​​​​​​​Starting with non-REM sleep, the cycle moves from light to deep sleep, briefly reverses back through the stages, and culminates in REM sleep before starting again. This cycle's repetition throughout the night is crucial for a comprehensive restorative process. Understanding the dynamics of these cycles is vital as disruptions in the pattern can impact everything from mental acuity to emotional stability.

We hope this exploration enriches your understanding of the complexities of sleep. Stay tuned for our next newsletter, where we will continue our in-depth exploration of topics related to sleep, aiming to help you optimize your sleep for better health.

Stay informed, stay healthy,

Disclaimer:
Please note that the information provided in this newsletter is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a physical or mental health condition. Individual cases may vary, emphasizing the importance of personalized medical advice.