REM (rapid eye movement) sleep is one of the four stages of sleep—the one characterized by quick eye movements and increased brain activity and heart rate, among other things. It’s also one of the stages during which we dream. REM sleep can help us consolidate memories and strengthen motor skills, though the purpose of the sleep stage isn’t completely understood.
People normally go through four to five REM cycles each night, on average, comprising about 20% of their sleep.
People with REM sleep behavior disorder have potentially disturbing experiences characterized by vivid dreams and movements while sleeping. In REM sleep, our muscles are typically paralyzed temporarily to prevent us from physically acting out our dreams.
Getting enough sleep, in general, is important to our overall health, and some research indicates that insufficient REM sleep may lead to migraines and decreased mental sharpness. Regardless of whether you’re at risk of REM sleep behavior disorder or Parkinson’s, prioritizing sleep every night will pay off for your health and longevity.
Fortunately, there are ways to improve our sleep quality and duration:
