Basics Of Sleep

You move through several stages during sleep. Each stage has an important role. The first REM sleep cycle is reached about 90 minutes after falling asleep.

Stage 1

Your muscle activity decreases and your eyes move slowly. It is easy to wake someone in this stage.

Stage 2

Your body temperature and heart rate decrease as your body prepares for deep sleep. Your brain waves slow.

Stage 3

Deep sleep with slow brain waves occurs. Your body repairs damaged cells.

Stage 4

Deep sleep with very slow brain waves takes place. You have no muscle activity. It is difficult to wake someone in this stage.

REM Sleep

Your breathing rate increases, brain waves speed up, and your eyes move rapidly. Your heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature rise. Dreams occur in this stage. REM sleep helps you to feel refreshed and energetic upon waking.