What is REM sleep?
REM sleep is Rapid Eye Movement sleep.
The eye movements that occur during REM sleep suggest that the dreaming process is similar to watching a film.
REM dreams are visual, usually containing involved and complicated plots whereas non-REM dreams tend to be based on thoughts that can be repetitive and obsessive – like worrying about something that you’ve lost during the day.
The most intense dream period occurs in the early hours of the morning.
Some people suffer from REM behaviour disorder. During REM sleep, most of us are unable to move. However people with the REM disorder may dramatically act out their dreams and injure themselves or others.
Why do we need REM sleep?
REM sleep helps the brain to construct long-term memories. Information you have learnt, absorbed and acquired during the day is consolidated during this stage of sleep. This makes learning easier.
REM sleep also helps with the development of the central nervous system whichgoverns our reaction and sensitivity to physical pain.
Sleep, Dreams and Depression
Studies have shown that some people with depression may pass too quickly from Stage 3 and 4 into the REM stage of sleep. The REM stage of sleep for people with depressive disorders may last too long and can be much more intense.
This then affects the way that they construct their emotional memories and can make them prone to focusing more on painful memories and events during their waking hours.
Tests have shown that different types of meditation may help to ease some of the problems that are associated with depression and lack of sleep.
Guided meditation may be suitable for people who find it a challenge to quieten their minds. With guided meditation, you carry out the process whilst listening to instructions as you go along, sometimes with a teacher or alternatively with an audio recording.
Listen to a short free sample meditation which is aimed at relaxing the body, mind and spirit.
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Banish Insomnia Now, Dreams | Chantelle | 
August 25, 2011 5:11 pm
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