What Happens in the Brain During Different Sleep Stages?
Sleep is divided into non-REM (NREM) and REM (rapid eye movement) stages. NREM sleep consists of three stages, each with distinct brain wave patterns. During NREM Stage 1, the brain produces alpha and theta waves, indicating light sleep. NREM Stage 2 features sleep spindles and K-complexes, which are essential for memory consolidation. NREM Stage 3, also known as slow-wave sleep, is characterized by delta waves and is the deepest sleep stage. REM sleep is marked by rapid eye movements and heightened brain activity similar to wakefulness, crucial for cognitive functions like learning and memory.
