Biohacking glossary
What is REM sleep?
Quick answer
REM sleep: definition
REM (rapid eye movement) sleep is a sleep stage characterized by vivid dreaming, rapid eye movements and temporary muscle paralysis; it supports emotional processing and memory.
REM sleep, explained
REM periods lengthen toward the morning, so cutting sleep short disproportionately reduces REM. Alcohol suppresses REM sleep.
Why it matters
Protecting the final hours of sleep protects REM — and with it mood and learning.
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FAQ
REM sleep FAQs
What is REM sleep?
Why does REM sleep matter?
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