How To Get More REM Sleep

Sleep is a complex and essential biological process that plays a crucial role in maintaining our physical and mental health. One of the most vital stages is REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep.

If you’re wondering how to get more REM sleep, this blog post is what you need. Below, you’ll learn exactly what REM sleep is, why it’s important, and how to increase both the quality and quantity of your REM sleep. We’ll also discuss how the Diso Snooze dissolvable sleep aid can help you get the good night’s sleep you’ve been dreaming of. Read on to learn more!

What is REM Sleep?

During sleep, you cycle through different sleep stages, each defined by specific brain and body activities. N1 is the "falling asleep" stage, N2 is light sleep, and N3 is slow-wave sleep (the deepest stage). The last stage, known as REM sleep, is the period of sleep during which we dream. These stages cycle repeatedly throughout the night, each cycle lasting longer than the previous one. 

REM sleep is marked by quicker breathing and heart rate, temporary paralysis of limb muscles and heightened brain activity. The first REM phase starts about 90 minutes after falling asleep, with most people experiencing REM sleep 3 to 5 times per night on average. Early REM sleep stages are typically shorter, at around ten minutes, while later ones can last longer than an hour.

Why Is REM Sleep Important?

REM sleep plays a crucial role in cognitive functioning, including creativity, problem-solving and memory. The information and experiences you take in during the day are processed and stored while in REM sleep, aiding in long-term memory retention and cognitive development. REM sleep also helps you process emotional experiences, leads to better mood and hormone regulation, and reduces stress levels.

Studies show that people who get more REM sleep do better in a variety of tests. Not getting enough, on the other hand, can cause problems with many aspects of your emotional, mental and physical well-being – from mood swings to decreased capacity for learning.

Tips to Increase REM Sleep

If you’re wondering how to get more REM sleep, improving your sleep hygiene is key. “Sleep hygiene” refers to healthy habits you can put in place to help you sleep better and for longer. Getting an overall better night’s sleep can indirectly improve the amount and quality of your REM sleep. Here are some tips:

1. Reset your body clock: go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Having a long lie-in might be tempting, but it makes it more difficult to maintain a healthy sleep pattern. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
2. Create a bedtime routine: incorporate restful activities like reading, taking a warm bath, drinking a warming herbal tea, and tidying your sleep environment to make it comfortable and relaxing.
3. Limit screen time: Aim to turn off all electronics – especially those with a backlight – at least an hour before going to bed.
4. Stay active: By exercising during the day, you use up your body’s energy resources, helping you feel more tired and sleep soundly. That being said, try to avoid vigorous exercise close to bedtime.
5. Consider sleep supplements: Products like Diso Snooze can help improve sleep quality and promote relaxation. Diso Snooze is a dissolvable sleep aid packed with valerian, chamomile, and vitamin B6 to promote healthy sleep. 

It can take time to establish new habits, so don’t be too disappointed if your sleep doesn’t improve overnight – but do keep trying.

Factors that Can Impact REM Sleep

Several factors can impact the quality and duration of REM sleep, and these should all be addressed for good sleep hygiene.

Stress is a significant contributory factor to poor REM sleep. Having a tough day at work, dealing with family issues, or relationship issues for example can lead to a worse night’s rest. 

Unhealthy lifestyle choices and poor diet can also have a negative effect on the quality and quantity of your sleep, including REM sleep. This might include eating too much food, eating late at night or not getting enough exercise.

Alcohol, caffeine, and certain medications can also disrupt REM sleep. These substances can alter your typical sleep stages, reducing the amount of time spent in REM sleep and affecting its quality.

If you experience persistent sleep disturbances or signs of sleep disorders such as sleep apnoea, it may be time to consult a doctor or sleep specialist. Professional guidance can help treat any underlying issues affecting your sleep.

Improve Your Sleep with Diso Snooze

REM sleep is crucial for overall health and well-being. By following the above tips, you can take proactive steps to improve the quality and duration of your REM sleep, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.