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Writer's pictureRia Nerurkar

Meditation blog: How to improve REM sleep.

Updated: Jul 9, 2023

Your Ultimate Guide to REM sleep, Affecting factors, how to improve it using meditation, and everything You Need to Know


REM sleep, or Rapid Eye Movement sleep, is a stage of sleep characterised by rapid eye movements, increased brain activity, and vivid dreaming.–Disruptions in REM sleep can lead to sleep disorders. But no matter where you stand in your journey of improving your sleep quality, This article will guide you further.


Here we go!

The exact function of REM sleep is not entirely understood, but it is considered essential for overall sleep quality and the normal functioning of the brain. Fixing REM sleep can seem like a difficult resolution, especially when there is no specific method to address it. But, It's worth noting that the quality and quantity of REM sleep can fluctuate naturally throughout a person's life, influenced by age, hormonal changes, and other factors. Consulting with a healthcare professional, such as a sleep specialist or doctor, can provide personalised guidance and recommendations based on your specific circumstances. Till you get the professional help you deserve, here are some meditation techniques and routines you can try to proceed:


Humans are creatures of habit. No matter how hard the task, persistent efforts and applying the correct knowledge to your plan can solve the most confusing riddles.


A quick glance at what REM sleep cycle:


The first cycle of REM sleep typically occurs about 90 minutes after falling asleep and lasts for a short period, around 10 minutes. As the sleep cycle repeats throughout the night, the duration of REM sleep increases, while the time spent in deep non-REM sleep decreases. Toward the morning, REM sleep periods can last up to an hour.


How to improve factors that affect REM sleep?


 

Why is REM sleep so important?


REM sleep is highly important for several reasons. It supports brain function and cognitive performance by aiding memory consolidation and learning. It also contributes to emotional regulation and processing, promoting emotional well-being. Additionally, REM sleep plays a role in the restoration and repair of the body, supporting tissue growth, metabolism regulation, and a healthy immune system. It is associated with vivid dreaming, which can foster creativity and problem-solving abilities. Maintaining a healthy balance of REM sleep is crucial for overall sleep quality, and in infants, it is crucial for brain development. In summary, REM sleep is a vital stage of sleep that impacts various aspects of well-being, including brain function, emotional health, physical restoration, creativity, and overall sleep quality.


Being so emotionally charged REM sleep can be affected by our lifestyle choices and routines and hence it's time to make the following changes to see some improvement.


How to improve the factors that affect the REM sleep?


1. Stick to a regular sleep schedule: Establish a consistent sleep routine by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, including weekends. This helps regulate your body's internal clock and promotes better REM sleep.


2. Create a sleep-friendly environment: Make your bedroom conducive to sleep by keeping it dark, quiet, and cool. Use comfortable bedding, invest in a good mattress, and consider using earplugs, eye masks, or white noise machines to minimize disturbances.


3. Reduce exposure to blue light before bed: Blue light emitted by electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, and computers can suppress the production of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep. Avoid using screens at least one hour before bedtime or use blue light filters or night mode on your devices.


4. Limit caffeine and stimulant intake: Avoid consuming caffeine or other stimulants close to bedtime, as they can interfere with sleep. Be mindful of hidden sources of caffeine, such as certain medications and energy drinks.


5. Manage stress: High levels of stress can disrupt REM sleep. Incorporate stress-management techniques into your daily routine, such as relaxation exercises, meditation, deep breathing, or engaging in calming activities before bed.


6. Regular exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can help improve sleep, including REM sleep. However, avoid intense exercise close to bedtime, as it may increase alertness and make it harder to fall asleep.


7. Avoid heavy meals and alcohol before bed: Eating large meals or consuming alcohol close to bedtime can disrupt sleep patterns, including REM sleep. Opt for light, easily digestible snacks if you feel hungry before bed.


8. Create a relaxing bedtime routine: Establish a relaxing routine before sleep, such as taking a warm bath, reading a book, listening to calming music, or practicing relaxation techniques. This can signal to your body that it's time to wind down and prepare for sleep.


9. Address sleep disorders: If you suspect you have a sleep disorder, such as sleep apnea or restless legs syndrome, consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Treating underlying sleep disorders can help improve REM sleep.


10. Prioritize overall sleep quality: Remember that good sleep hygiene practices, including a comfortable sleep environment, regular exercise, and stress management, contribute to overall sleep quality, which in turn can support healthy REM sleep.


It's important to note that individual responses to these strategies may vary. If you continue to experience significant difficulties with sleep or suspect a sleep disorder, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance.


What are some of the meditation techniques to improve REM sleep?


NOTE: REM sleep cannot be targeted. But the above factors can be addressed and regulated using meditations which can lead to better results.


Check out the meditation techniques on Meditation paths to find the most important and common meditations techniques.


BUT WHEN IT COMES TO REM here are three specific meditation that you can perform:


Yoga Nidra: Yoga Nidra, also known as yogic sleep, is a guided meditation technique that induces a state of deep relaxation and inner awareness. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to perform Yoga Nidra:


1. Find a Comfortable Position: Lie down on your back in a comfortable and supportive position, such as on a yoga mat or a firm mattress. Use a pillow or bolster under your head and knees if needed, ensuring your body feels relaxed and at ease.


2. Set Your Intention: Before beginning the practice, set a clear intention or resolve for your Yoga Nidra session. It could be a personal goal, an affirmation, or an aspect of self-transformation that you wish to focus on during the meditation.


3. Body Awareness: Bring your attention to different parts of your body, starting from your right hand. Mentally focus on each body part sequentially, briefly acknowledging and relaxing each area as you move along. Progressively move through your entire body, from head to toe or vice versa.


4. Breath Awareness: Shift your attention to your breath. Observe the natural flow of your breath without trying to control or change it. Notice the sensations of inhaling and exhaling, the rise and fall of your abdomen or chest.


5. Rotation of Consciousness: Gradually guide your awareness through different parts of your body, systematically moving from one body part to another. As each body part is named, direct your attention there and experience any sensations or subtle changes you may notice.


6. Sensory Awareness: Engage your senses by visualizing and experiencing various sensations. Mentally imagine the touch of different textures, sounds, tastes, smells, and visuals. Explore these sensory experiences in your imagination, allowing them to arise and pass.


7. Emotions and Thoughts: Observe any emotions or thoughts that arise without judgment or attachment. Notice their presence and let them go, allowing them to pass by like clouds in the sky. Return your focus to the meditation practice whenever you become aware of distractions.


8. Visualization and Affirmations: Enter a stage of guided visualization and affirmations. This can involve visualizing a peaceful place or engaging in positive imagery. Incorporate affirmations or positive statements related to your intention or desired transformation.


9. Completion: Gradually bring your awareness back to your breath and your physical body. Slowly transition back to a wakeful state, becoming aware of your surroundings. Take a few moments to rest and integrate the experience before resuming your normal activities.


It's beneficial to follow guided Yoga Nidra meditations initially, as a facilitator will lead you through each stage. There are various guided Yoga Nidra recordings or smartphone apps available that can assist you in practicing this technique. As you become more familiar with the practice, you can also explore practicing Yoga Nidra on your own, utilizing the steps mentioned above.


Remember that consistency is key, so aim to practice Yoga Nidra regularly to experience its full benefits for relaxation, stress reduction, and overall well-being.


Guided Imagery: Guided imagery meditation is a practice that involves using the power of imagination and visualization to create a calming and positive mental experience. Here's a brief overview of how to engage in guided imagery meditation:


1. Find a Comfortable Position: Sit or lie down in a comfortable position in a quiet and peaceful environment where you won't be disturbed.


2. Settle into Relaxation: Take a few deep breaths to relax your body and calm your mind. Allow any tension or stress to melt away with each exhale.


3. Choose a Guided Imagery Source: You can use a guided imagery meditation app, listen to a pre-recorded guided meditation, or have someone guide you through the practice in person.


4. Follow the Guidance: Close your eyes and attentively listen to the instructions provided. The guide will lead you through a series of visualizations and descriptions to create a mental image.


5. Engage Your Senses: As you listen to the guidance, actively engage your senses in the imagery. Imagine the sights, sounds, smells, textures, and even tastes associated with the visualization. Immerse yourself fully in the experience.


6. Embrace Relaxation and Positive Imagery: The guided imagery will likely lead you through relaxing and positive scenarios, such as peaceful natural settings, soothing landscapes, or healing environments. Embrace the feelings of tranquility, joy, and calm that arise from the imagery.


7. Maintain Focus and Allow Transitions: Stay present and focused throughout the guided imagery session, allowing your mind to transition smoothly from one visualization to the next. If your mind wanders, gently bring it back to the imagery and the guide's voice.


8. Closure and Transition: Towards the end of the guided imagery, the guide will likely bring your attention back to your physical surroundings. Take a moment to acknowledge the experience and gradually transition back to the present moment.


9. Reflect and Integrate: After completing the guided imagery meditation, take a few moments to reflect on any emotions, sensations, or insights that arose during the practice. Allow yourself to fully integrate the positive aspects of the experience into your present state.


Guided imagery meditation can be a powerful tool for relaxation, stress reduction, and accessing a deeper sense of inner peace. It's important to find guided imagery resources that resonate with you and address your specific needs or intentions. Regular practice can enhance the benefits and promote a greater sense of well-being.


Mindfullness meditation: Mindfulness meditation is a simple and concise practice that involves bringing your attention to the present moment without judgment. Here's a brief overview of mindfulness meditation:


1. Find a Comfortable Position: Sit in a comfortable position with your back straight, either on a cushion or a chair.


2. Focus on the Breath: Bring your attention to the sensation of your breath, feeling the inhalation and exhalation. Observe the breath without trying to control it.


3. Be Present: As thoughts, emotions, or physical sensations arise, acknowledge them without judgment and gently return your focus to the breath. The key is to be aware of the present moment, non-reactively.


4. Cultivate Non-Judgmental Awareness: Allow thoughts to come and go without getting caught up in them or labeling them as good or bad. Simply observe them with a sense of curiosity and acceptance.


5. Expand Awareness: Gradually expand your awareness to include other bodily sensations, sounds, or thoughts that arise. Notice them without attachment or aversion, maintaining a non-judgmental stance.


6. Continuous Practice: Practice mindfulness meditation for a designated period of time, starting with a few minutes and gradually increasing the duration as you become more comfortable with the practice.


Mindfulness meditation is a powerful tool for developing present-moment awareness, reducing stress, and cultivating a sense of calm. Its simplicity allows for flexibility and adaptability, making it accessible to individuals with varying levels of meditation experience. Regular practice can bring about numerous benefits for mental, emotional, and overall well-being.



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