AN OBSERVATION OF SLEEP AND THE OUTCOME OF DISTURBANCES

Humans are the only mammals that delay sleep, putting it off for many reasons such as study, work shifts, and scrolling on social media, often having the time of their lives until the sun rises — such is the joy of living!

REM (Rapid Eye Movement) plays a role in memory and learning. Frequently spoken of as having an important role in sleep, it involves intervals at night with faster breathing and occurring dreams.

There are several elements that can cause trouble and disturbances. According to experts, the old adage of “seven hours per night” is still generally sensible.

Many occurrences in life can change sleep patterns, especially as technology advances. People like to stay “in the loop,” which can interfere with achieving a good night’s sleep.

Insomnia is a common sleep disturbance, perhaps triggered by mood and anxiety, disturbing a good night’s rest. Therefore, waking up at night due to unresolved issues before bedtime is unhealthy unless absolutely necessary!

Alcohol can initially make one feel wide awake, but later struggles to stay awake can arise.

Delayed sleep can lead to depression and metabolic disorders. However, sleep patterns can also change with aging, among other relevant reasons.

Waking up “on the wrong side of the bed” is often due to too little sleep or anticipation of a tedious day ahead.

Here are a couple of sleep issues that cannot be classified as normal:

• Parasomnia involves continuous movement, night terrors, and unusual occurrences.
• Sleep Apnea is dangerous, as irregular breathing can lead to heart attacks or arterial disease.
• Narcolepsy causes intermittent drowsiness during the day, affecting daily routines.

Shifting topics slightly, some readers might be interested in how some animals get their evening “doze”:

• Horses can sleep standing up but need to lie down during REM sleep, whereas sheep lie down often during the day but remain alert during the lambing season.
• Giraffes are constantly on high alert due to their visibility and evolved to need as little as 30 minutes of sleep per day.
• Yogis are said to be unaware of sleep, considering it sacred. Deep sleep eliminates dreams, leading to optimism and contentment upon waking.

In conclusion, the recognition of familiar people in dreams is unlikely, as wakefulness defines our familiarity with others.