Sleep is a natural state of rest that occurs while we are awake. In humans, the average person spends about eight hours of sleep per day. When we are asleep, our muscles become relaxed and our breathing becomes slower and shallower. Our hearts beat less rapidly, and our blood pressure drops.
The brain is not active during sleep; instead, it continues to work at normal levels, processing information, storing memories, and maintaining body temperature. Most people need seven to nine hours of sleep each night, although some individuals may require fewer hours or even longer than this.
We spend between 25% and 30% of our lives asleep. There are two different types of sleep: REM (rapid eye movement) sleep and non-REM (nonrapid eye movement) sleep. Non-REM sleep is further divided into four stages: Stage 1, Stage 2, Stage 3, and Stage 4. Stages 1 and 2 are known as NREM (Non-Rapid Eye Movement). These stages occur before we enter REM sleep.
During stage 1, the eyes move back and forth under the eyelids. During stage 2, the eyes remain still. During stage 3, we begin to dream. During stage 4, the eyes are closed. Each cycle lasts 90 minutes and is followed by a period of wakefulness. During REM sleep, the eyes do not move. Instead, they dart around erratically. The brain waves produced during REM sleep resemble those seen in deep meditation.
Importance of Sleep for Students:
1. Sleep is the time we spend between our waking hours and dreaming. A good night’s sleep helps us feel refreshed and ready to take on the day ahead. But what exactly happens while we sleep? And how much do we need?
2. Sleep is a natural state of being that occurs when we are not awake. When we are asleep, our brain waves slow down and become less active than they are when we are awake. Our heart rate slows, breathing becomes shallower, and blood pressure drops. We may experience vivid dreams, muscle twitches, and even some involuntary movements.
3. While we sleep, our body temperature decreases slightly, and our muscles relax. In addition, our brains release hormones that help regulate our immune system and keep us calm.
4. Sleep is divided into three distinct categories based on its duration: NREM (Non-Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, REM (Rapid Eye Movement), and Deep Sleep.
5. NREM sleep is the first stage of sleep. It begins about 30 minutes after falling asleep and lasts for approximately 90 minutes. During this period, our bodies begin to produce certain chemicals called “hormones” that prepare us for the next phase of sleep. These hormones include melatonin and serotonin.
6. REM sleep is the second stage of sleep. It starts about 20 minutes before awakening and lasts for about 50 minutes. During this time, our eyes move rapidly back and forth under closed eyelids. This activity is known as rapid eye movement.
7. Deep sleep is the third stage of sleep. It occurs just before awakening and lasts for only 5 minutes. During deep sleep, our bodies produce less of these hormones and our muscles are completely relaxed.
8. Most people require seven to eight hours of sleep each night. However, if you are experiencing insomnia, you may need more sleep. If you are having trouble sleeping, try going to bed earlier and getting out of bed at least once during the night. Also, avoid caffeine and alcohol right before bedtime.
9. You should wake up feeling rested rather than groggy. Try to get at least six hours of sleep per night.
10. If you have trouble falling asleep, try taking a warm shower or bath instead of turning on the lights.
11. Make sure you don't stay up late watching TV or playing video games. Instead, go outside and enjoy nature.
12. Don't use electronic devices right before bedtime. Turn off the phone, computer, and television.
13. Avoid eating heavy meals close to bedtime.
14. Keep your bedroom cool and dark.
Amazing Facts about sleep:
4) The record for the longest period without sleep is 11 days
