What Is REM Sleep?
Article Sources
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REM sleep refers to a stage of sleep that occurs every 90 to 110 minutes in which a person can experience vivid dreams, high brain activity, muscular paralysis and rapid eye movement. It occurs more often in children and happens less often as people age. A number of factors can affect REM, including smoking and drinking habits.1‘Sleep Basics: REM & NREM, Sleep Stages, Good Sleep Habits & More.’ Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/12148-sleep-basics.
The research is ongoing about the biological purpose of REM sleep, but there are a number of theories as to why humans and other mammals experience it. Reigning theories include memory building and skill retention.
