Zero-Gravity Experience Benefits
What Is Deep Sleep?
Deep sleep, also called slow-wave sleep, occurs in the third stage of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep. During deep sleep, electrical activity in the brain appears in long, slow waves called delta waves. These waves have a frequency of 0.5 to 2 Hertz , and they must make up at least 6 seconds of a 30-second window for that period to be considered deep sleep.
How does deep sleep help?
Deep sleep supports the repairing and restorative functions that are necessary to feel your best each day. Getting enough deep sleep helps the brain and body prepare to take on new information and adapt to new environments. Not getting enough deep sleep can cause learning difficulties, make you susceptible to infection, and put you at risk for long-term health concerns.
Why Is Deep Sleep Important?
While all stages of sleep are necessary for good health, deep sleep offers specific physical and mental benefits. During deep sleep, your body releases growth hormone and works to build and repair muscles, bones, and tissue. Deep sleep also promotes immune system functioning. Additionally, slow-wave sleep may be important for regulating glucose metabolism Elite athletes value slow-wave sleep as it helps replenish energy.
Deep sleep is important for cognitive function and memory, and it is thought to play a role in language learning, motor skills, and the developing brain. Throughout the day, you receive information inputs that strengthen the synapses, or points of communication, in the networks of your brain. However, your brain cannot take on information continually without rest.
Physical Benefits:
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Metabolic Regulation:
Deep sleep helps regulate metabolism by promoting the release of hormones that control blood sugar levels and fat burning.
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Cardiovascular Health:
Deep sleep is associated with lower blood pressure and reduced risk of heart disease.
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Repair and Regeneration:
Deep sleep promotes the release of growth hormone, which aids in tissue repair, muscle growth, and bone health.
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Immune System Function:
Deep sleep enhances immune function by stimulating the production of immune cells and reducing inflammation.
Mental Benefits:
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Cognitive Function:
Deep sleep is essential for memory consolidation, learning, and problem-solving.
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Emotional Regulation:
Deep sleep helps regulate emotions and reduce stress levels.
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Brain Health:
Deep sleep is crucial for brain plasticity, which allows the brain to adapt and learn new things.
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Reduced Risk of Neurodegenerative Diseases:
Deep sleep may help protect against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Other Benefits:
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Improved Mood:
Deep sleep contributes to feelings of well-being and increased energy levels.
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Hormonal Balance:
Deep sleep helps regulate the release of hormones that affect growth, metabolism, and reproduction.
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Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases:
Deep sleep is linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and cancer.
What Happens When You Don’t Get Enough Deep Sleep?
In addition to causing fatigue, a lack of deep sleep can have a number of impacts on your body. Some indications you are not getting enough deep sleep include:
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Feeling unrefreshed and drowsy
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Reduced alertness and attention
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Trouble learning and forming new memories
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Cravings for high-calorie food