Sleep and dream

Stage 1 sleep

,fluctuating between consciousness and sleep, 5-15 mins

Stage 2 sleep

heart rate slows, brain does less complicated tasks; body slows down and is still classified as light sleep. 15 mins

Stage 3/4 sleep

stage 3; body makes repairs

stage 4; body temp and blood pressure decreased, move into REM sleep approx 90 mins after first feeling sleepy

REM sleep

voluntary muscles relaxed, high frequency and low amplitude. eyes move rapidly for short bursts of time

Restoration Theory of sleep

Theory stating sleep repairs the body and brain; NREM restores the body while REM restores the brain.

Adaptive (Evolutionary) Theory of sleep

Highlights sleep's role in keeping animals safe and conserving energy when inactive.

Freud's dream theory

Theory suggesting dreams have a meaning

Activation-synthesis theory

Theory that views dreams as the result of random brain activity.

Problem solving theory

dreams have a meaning but don’t need to be analysed.

When do most dreams occur?

During REM sleep, especially in the second half of the night.

Lucid dream

• What it is: The ability to become aware of and sometimes control one's dreams while still in the dream state.

• When it happens: Primarily during REM sleep.

Daydream

• What it is: A state of spontaneous, self-generated thoughts or fantasies, often while awake and not focused on external tasks.

• When it happens: During wakefulness, especially when the mind is not actively engaged in tasks.

Sleep deprivation effects

Fatigue, poor concentration, mood swings, memory issues.

Insomnia

Difficulty falling or staying asleep.

Sleepwalking

Performing complex actions while asleep, typically during deep sleep.

Sleep hygiene strategies

1. Keep a regular bedtime;

2. Avoid screens before bed;

3. Create a calm sleep environment.

Brain Plasticity Theory?

sleep plays a crucial role in brain development, learning, memory consolidation, and the strengthening of neural connections.

Energy Conservation Theory?

sleep helps conserve energy by reducing bodily functions and metabolism during periods of inactivity, especially at night when food may be scarce.

Sleep walking

• What it is: Walking or performing tasks while asleep, typically during deep NREM sleep.

• When it happens: NREM stages 3 and 4.

Sleep Talking

• What it is: Speaking during sleep, which can range from simple phrases to full conversations.

• When it happens: Can occur during any sleep stage but most commonly during light NREM sleep.

Night Terrors

• What it is: Intense episodes of fear, screaming, and confusion during sleep, often accompanied by physical agitation.

• When it happens: Typically during deep NREM sleep (stages 3 and 4).

Nightmares

• What it is: Vivid, disturbing dreams that cause distress and may lead to waking up.

• When it happens: Most commonly during REM sleep.