Sleeping

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Sleeping

Sleeping (pronunciation: /ˈsliːpɪŋ/) is a naturally recurring state of mind and body, characterized by altered consciousness, relatively inhibited sensory activity, reduced muscle activity and inhibition of nearly all voluntary muscles during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, and reduced interactions with surroundings.

Etymology

The word "sleep" comes from the Old English slēp, which is related to the Old High German slāf, both of which mean "sleep". The term "sleeping" is the present participle of "sleep".

Types of Sleep

There are two basic types of sleep: REM sleep and non-REM sleep which itself has three different stages. Each is linked to specific brain waves and neuronal activity.

REM Sleep

REM sleep is characterized by rapid eye movement, increased respiration rate and increased brain activity. REM sleep is also referred to as paradoxical sleep because while the brain and other body systems become more active, muscles become more relaxed.

Non-REM Sleep

Non-REM sleep is a period of sleep that is subdivided into three stages: N1, N2, and N3. Each stage can last from 5 to 15 minutes.

Related Terms

  • Insomnia: A sleep disorder that is characterized by difficulty falling and/or staying asleep.
  • Narcolepsy: A neurological disorder that affects the control of sleep and wakefulness.
  • Sleep Apnea: A serious sleep disorder that occurs when a person's breathing is interrupted during sleep.
  • Sleep Paralysis: A state, during waking up or falling asleep, in which a person is aware but unable to move or speak.
  • Sleepwalking: A behavior disorder that originates during deep sleep and results in walking or performing other complex behaviors while asleep.

See Also

External links

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