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There are tell-tale signs when you dont get enough REM sleep.
What is REM sleep?
As part of a full nights rest, we cycle throughfour stages of sleepseveral times.
Thissleep cycleincludes three stages of non-REM sleep and one stage of REM (dream) sleep.
Initially, periods of REM sleep last around ten minutes and gradually increase up to an hour.
Heres how to get more.
Your brain needs to know when you get into bed that it is time for sleep.
If youre struggling to reset your sleep cycle, read our ways to quicklyfix your sleep schedule.
Dr Lee advises avoiding caffeine for at least six to eight hours before bedtime.
Alcohol might help you to initially drop off but it can also suppress REM sleep.
Opting for a restorative yoga routine before bed could be a great way to unwind.
As could listening to gentle, instrumental music or taking a warm bath or shower just before bedtime.
If youre someone who likes to exercise in the morning, youre already onto something thats benefitting your sleep.
Firstly, ensure your bedroom is cool and dark.
Secondly, switch to soft, low lighting in the evenings and in your bedroom.
And thirdly, verify your bed including your mattress is comfortable and supportive.
Why is REM sleep important?
Rapid eye movement sleep is important as it stimulates an area of your brain known as the amygdala.
Its associated with learning, emotional processing, dream content and memory consolidation.
What happens if you dont get enough REM sleep?
If you dont get enough REM sleep, you could quickly experience some initial tell-tale signs.
These include feeling groggy in the morning, and feeling irritable and hungrier than usual.
You might also find it more difficult to concentrate and cope with your emotions.
Some people also find they are more forgetful when they havent had enough REM sleep.
Its also believed that it can disrupt the brains ability to repair and reset.
