Getting enough sleep is crucial for general health and well-being. Rest, recovery, and development are all made possible for our bodies and minds. It may surprise you to learn that there are multiple stages of sleep or levels of sleep. In reality, it consists of several stages, each with special qualities and advantages of its own.
In our previous posts, we tackled topics such as why we should not go to bed after a meal. We also covered topics about sleeping disorders like bruxism. Now, let’s talk about what are the different levels of sleep, and how much sleep is appropriate for your age.
What's In Here
Understanding Levels of Sleep or Sleep Stages
Typically there are five phases of sleep; waking up N1, N2, N3, and REM. The initial three stages, from N1 to N3 fall under rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep. In these phases our brain activity. Our muscles begin to unwind.
The N1 Stage
Normally, you go into the N1 stage right before you wake up. This is the lightest sleep stage, during which you can still be conscious of your environment. Slow eye movements and a floating sensation are its defining features.
The N2 Stage
You move on to the N2 stage, a little deeper sleep state, after the N1 stage. Eye movements cease during this phase, and brain waves slow down with sporadic spikes in activity. Approximately half of all sleep time is thought to be spent in this period.
The N3 Stage
The N3 stage is the most restorative stage of sleep, sometimes referred to as deep sleep or slow-wave sleep. Extremely sluggish brain waves, relaxed muscles, and restricted eye movement are its defining characteristics. To support immunological response, memory consolidation, and physical healing, deep sleep is essential.
The REM Stage
After the N3 stage, we enter the REM (rapid eye movement) stage. This is the stage where most dreaming occurs. During REM sleep, our brain activity increases, and our eyes move rapidly from side to side. REM sleep is believed to be important for learning, memory consolidation, and emotional regulation.
It’s essential to get adequate sleep for general health and well-being. Age-related differences in sleep needs mean that different age groups require varied amounts of sleep.
Sleep Recommendations for Children
Newborns aged from 0-3 months are required to sleep at least 14-17 hours of sleep per day, including short naps throughout the day and night. Infants aged from 4-11 months need around 12-15 hours of sleep, including regular daytime naps. And toddlers aged from 1-2 years should have 11-14 hours of sleep including one or two daytime naps.
Sleep specialists advise that kids between 3 and 5 years aim for 10 to 13 hours of sleep each day which includes nap time. For children aged six to twelve, it is recommended to get around nine to twelve hours of sleep. As, for teenagers from 13 to 18 years old the target is typically 8 to 10 hours of sleep, per night.
Sleep Recommendations for Adults
It is recommended that adults who are 18 years old or above adhere, to sleep recommendations. The National Sleep Foundation suggests that adults aim for a sleep duration of seven to nine hours. Similarly, experts suggest that individuals should strive for a rest period ranging between 7 and 9 hours.
Sleep Recommendations for Aging Adults
As we age our sleeping patterns and requirements tend to change. The National Sleep Foundation suggests that adults, between 25 and 64 years old should aim for an average of 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Additionally, individuals aged 65 and above are advised to get around 7 hours of sleep every night.
Sleep Recommendations from Different Sources
Keep in mind that advice from various sources could range slightly. For instance, neonates between the ages of 0 and 3 months old are not given a precise recommendation for sleep duration by the American Academy of Sleep. Nonetheless, neonates in this age range are advised by the National Sleep Foundation to strive for 14 to 17 hours of sleep every day.
Conclusion
In summary, sleep is a key aspect of our lives, and knowing the appropriate amount of sleep for each age group as well as the duration of each sleep cycle is critical to preserving maximum health and wellbeing. We may improve our memory and learning skills, support our physical and mental functioning, and advance general wellness by making sleep a priority and getting the recommended quantity of it. Thus, prioritize getting enough sleep so you can reap the rewards in your life.
