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What is deep sleep?
Deep sleep, also known as slow-wave sleep or stage 3 sleep, is a phase of sleep that is characterized by slow brain waves and a lowered heart rate. It is the stage of sleep where the body and brain undergo important restorative processes.
What happens to the body during deep sleep?
During deep sleep, the body experiences a variety of physiological changes. These include a decrease in body temperature, reduced blood pressure, slowed breathing, and relaxed muscles. The body also releases growth hormone, which is crucial for tissue repair and growth.
What happens to the brain during deep sleep?
Deep sleep is essential for brain health and cognitive function. During this stage, the brain consolidates memories, processes emotions, and clears out metabolic waste products. It is also believed to play a role in learning and creativity.
How long does deep sleep last?
Deep sleep typically occurs in cycles throughout the night, with each cycle lasting around 90 minutes. The first cycle may have a shorter duration of deep sleep, while subsequent cycles tend to have longer periods of deep sleep. On average, deep sleep occupies about 20-25% of total sleep time.
What are the benefits of deep sleep?
Deep sleep is crucial for overall health and well-being. It helps restore energy levels, supports immune function, regulates hormones, and promotes physical and mental recovery. Lack of deep sleep has been linked to various health issues, including cognitive decline, mood disorders, and an increased risk of chronic diseases.