Sleep Patterns

Definition

Sleep patterns refer to the characteristic variations in brain activity, eye movements, and physiological functions that occur during different stages of sleep. These patterns help researchers understand the quality and quantity of sleep individuals experience.

Related terms

Circadian Rhythms: These are natural internal processes that regulate our sleep-wake cycle over a 24-hour period.

REM Sleep: REM (Rapid Eye Movement) is a stage of sleep characterized by rapid eye movements, vivid dreaming, and increased brain activity.

NREM Sleep: NREM (Non-Rapid Eye Movement) includes all other stages of sleep except for REM and is associated with restorative processes like tissue repair and memory consolidation.