While You Were Sleeping

Issue 80 | December 9, 2024

The Power of REM Sleep

Have you ever woken up still feeling tired after a seemingly full night of sleep?

Feeling rested is not just about getting enough hours of sleep; it's about the quality of sleep you're getting.

Not getting enough REM sleep is often the culprit of daytime fatigue. It's in REM sleep that the real magic happens: It's when your brain becomes active doing work like consolidating memories, processing emotions, and recharging your batteries for the day ahead.

REM sleep doesn't happen right away — it's the final stage in the sleep cycle (a cycle you'll spin through up to four times in a night), so poor quality sleep means you're cutting into this crucial time.

Here are five of our favorite tips to make sure you're getting the most out of your sleep.

How to Get More REM Sleep

Sleep Quiz

How much of your total sleep is typically spent in REM sleep?

A. 5-10%
B. 15-25%
C. 30-40%

D. 50%

Scroll to the bottom for the answer!

Why Your Mattress Matters for Deep Sleep

A great mattress isn't just about comfort — it's your body's nighttime support system. It keeps you aligned and eases the pressure that can keep you from that deep, restful sleep.

The right mattress can make all the difference in your sleep quality.

We've tested and reviewed thousands of mattresses with sleep science and medical experts, as well as real sleepers like you, to bring you a list of the best mattresses on the market today.

Find out which mattresses provided our testing team with the best comfort and support for uninterrupted deep sleep.

Explore Mattresses

Sleep Tip of the Week

Set your alarm for the end of a sleep cycle. Rather than waking up mid-cycle (which causes grogginess), try setting your alarm for a time that aligns with your body's natural circadian rhythm (i.e., when the sun comes up).

Can Sound During REM Sleep Improve Memory?

A fascinating new study suggests that sound stimulation might actually speed up brain activity during REM sleep — a stage crucial for memory and cognition.

Researchers at the University of Surrey used targeted sound waves to boost brain oscillations in REM sleep, a process that could potentially improve memory in those with dementia.

This novel approach could one day reshape how we think about memory and sleep.

Curious how sound could impact your sleep?

Learn More

Quiz Answer

The correct answer is B.

On average, adults spend around 20% of their sleep in REM, though this amount can vary depending on age and sleep quality.

Logan Foley | Editorial Director

Why do we only remember some of our dreams? Turns out, when we wake up in the middle of a dream, we're more likely to remember it.

Sleep Foundation, A Sleep Doctor Company
1414 NE 42nd St 400 Seattle, WA 98105

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Sleep Doctor (collectively Sleep Foundation, SleepFoundation.org, SleepApnea.org, and SleepDoctor.com) is not affiliated with the National Sleep Foundation, an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Washington, D.C.

Sleep Doctor and its brands provide comprehensive health information to help people cultivate better sleep. Sleep Doctor does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment options.

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