While we slumber at night, our brains are busy synthesizing information and solidifying memories – processes that allow us to learn and retain data. Neurological activity varies tremendously during different sleep cycles, and prior studies have shown that people learn new information more rapidly and retain it better over the long-term just before nodding off to sleep.
A newly published study from Paris’ PSL Research University has expanded on this concept, finding that we tend to retain information better during two specific phases of sleep —Rapid Eye Movement sleep (when we usually dream), and non-REM sleep stage N2.
The researchers included 20 healthy participants in their sleep study, and evaluated their brain activity by utilizing electroencephalography (EEG), electromyography (EMG) and electrooculography (EOG). During the study, the researchers played white noise that contained several sound repetitions/patterns while the participants were awake, as well as during REM sleep and non-REM sleep. The next morning, the study participants were assessed on their memory recall of patterns they heard.
The participants found it easier to remember the sound patterns in the white noise when it was played during REM sleep and N2 sleep, compared to deeper stages of sleep. Based on these findings, the researchers believe that when information is heard during deep (Stage 3) sleep, it’s more difficult to learn it again compared to hearing it for the first time. They attribute this concept to the notion that the brain casts off unnecessary memories during deep sleep phases.
Research on how we retain and process information during different types of sleep may prove beneficial in the long-run, though the prospect of learning during sleep is still a long way off. In the interim, scientists agree that quality sleep is essential to the brain and our overall health.
Studies have also demonstrated that prolonged periods of low-quality sleep or too little sleep can negatively impact our ability to learn and remember new information.
We all feel better and more productive when well-rested. But did you know there are serious long-term effects associated with sleep deprivation? Consistent sleep loss not only affects cognitive abilities and memory, but can lead to a risk of health problems including depression, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease and obesity.
Proper rest and quality sleep are the foundation to a healthy life. One of the easiest ways to ensure you’re slumbering deeply and getting much-needed REM sleep, is getting the right mattress. If you are waking up tired, foggy and grumpy, chances are it’s time to visit Mattress World Northwest, where our Sleep Specialists can help you find the right mattress. We are proud to be Oregon’s #1 mattress retailer, offering the lowest prices on name brands you can trust.
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