So what does REM stand for? We’ve all heard of REM (Rapid Eye Movement) and how important sleep is for our overall health. But what does REM mean? What do dreams (and dreams alone) mean when we talk about REM? When do dreams actually contain REM?

REM stands for Rapid Eye Movement – and this phase is commonly associated with nightmares. During this phase, your eyelids slowly flutter open as your eyes dart around wildly, which is why it’s also known as rapid eye movements. You may already know that receiving enough REM sleep is critical for your health, but let’s take a more in-depth view into this topic to answer a few of the more basic questions about what does REM mean…

What does REM stand for = and why is it so important to your brain? REM or “Rapid Eye Movement” occurs during the first eight hours of sleep. Although the brain typically shuts down for ten or so hours before going to sleep, it sometimes remains active during the last three or four hours of your sleeping cycle. Therefore, your brain is constantly “remaking” itself. This constant activity can cause the brain to enter various stages of different states, each of which has different effects on the rest of your body.

How does REM relate to dreaming? REM is believed to play a role in realtime because it allows the brain to access your memory while it is in a deep sleep state. In order to understand what does REM mean, you must take a closer look at the different stages of sleep. Stage one of sleep is generally referred to as “slow sleep” and is the most relaxed and tranquil stage. Stage two is considered to be similar to falling asleep but is usually more profound and restful. Stage three is the final resting stage and is the deepest of all and is typically associated with dreams or nightmares.

There are many physical symptoms = that occur when a person is in REM or dreamtime. Your heart rate will increase, blood pressure will increase, and your muscles will become more relaxed. If your eyes are darting around rapidly while you are in REM, this is considered a symptom of REM sleep. You may also experience vivid dreams or nightmares. A common behavior that is indicative of REM sleep, is that your muscles will relax, your body will become less stiff, and you will become more alert and more awake. Your brainwaves will slow down and you will most likely have short periods where your brain is in a “zoned out” state.

A good way to remember = what does stand for is to imagine what it is you would feel like doing when you are in REM sleep stages. Think about relaxing and calming things down. Is it sitting on the couch, getting dressed, or petting your dog? By taking a moment to visualize what it is you want to do, you can better bring yourself to that desired state. Once you reach that desired ” REM “stage”, it is time to go to sleep.

It is recommended that you try to sleep at the same time each night so that you don’t get too tired or jump out of REM sleep unnecessarily.