This is why dreaming is good for your health

A journey to dreamland – Late risers know the route like the back of their hand, while restless sleepers may occasionally lose their way. The morning after, one person can vividly recount their dreams with accurate details, while another sees only a blank space when reflecting on their nightly voyage. Why do we dream, and what impact does it have on our body and mind?

Here's something interesting – every person dreams every night. The difference lies in whether a person remembers their dreams. Despite extensive research over the years, scientists hesitate to provide a definitive explanation for this phenomenon. One thing is certain: dreaming serves, among other purposes, to process stimuli received throughout the day. All experiences need a place in our minds, and by processing these stimuli and emotions during dreams, we can better navigate various emotions in daily life.

1. Dream sleep
2. Vivid dreams

Dream sleep

This processing of physical and mental stimuli occurs during REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, also known as the dream phase. This phase lasts about two hours in total but is fragmented into three to five different short episodes during the night. REM sleep ensures the storage of important information, allowing us to emerge from under our winter duvet each morning feeling refreshed and ready to start a new day with cheer!

Did you know that REM stands for Rapid Eye Movement because your eyes move back and forth rapidly during this phase?

Consistent dreaming generally indicates spending a considerable amount of time in deep sleep, a positive sign as it implies a lower likelihood of sleep deprivation. Since dreams predominantly occur during REM sleep, they serve as a reliable indicator of a healthy night's sleep!

Vivid dreams

Periods of vivid and frequent dreaming may be attributed to stress and a higher cortisol level. Cortisol is a substance that ensures waking up with ample energy, ready to face the day with a sense of freedom and happiness. When you experience high-stress levels during the day, such as at work or during an exciting event, the cortisol level in your body is elevated. This elevated cortisol level temporarily overrides the melatonin level, the sleep hormone responsible for restful sleep. The balance between cortisol and melatonin influences the nature of your dreams and sleep quality.

Sweet Dreams?