We all know that sleep is good for our bodies, but do you know how important it is for our minds? Researchers at UC Berkeley discovered that dreaming can help people deal with pain from awful memories. During the REM stage of the sleep cycle—when dreams occur—there are neurochemical changes that happen in the brain, including a decrease in a hormone associated with stress.

The result is that dreams create a “soothing balm” for the past experiences our brains process while we sleep. In other words, dreaming is like going to overnight therapy!

TL/DR: REM Sleep Is a Deep Cleanse

Dreaming not only helps ease emotional stress but may also have a cleansing effect. A study published in the Journal of Science in 2018 suggested that when we sleep, especially during the REM stage, our brains basically get a "neuronal shower." Researchers suggest that harmful toxins, like amyloid plaques, are removed from our central nervous system during this time. (Notice you’ve been dreaming more lately? People get more REM sleep during the winter.) 

But here's the deal: You can't control or enhance a specific sleep stage—our bodies aren’t built that way. Sleep is a cycle that has its own structure. If you want to nail that awesome REM sleep, then your best bet is to focus on getting all-round healthy sleep and let your brain do its thing.

Sol Bites: 8 Ways to Optimize Sleep

1. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule by waking up and going to bed at the same time every day.

2. Regulate your body clock by sticking to a consistent eating schedule and avoid eating four hours before bed.

3. Engage in regular exercise and get some morning sunlight to help regulate your sleep-wake cycle.

4. In the evening, avoid exposure to blue light (from cell phones and computers), which may interfere with sleep.

5. Avoid alcohol and stimulants, such as caffeine and nicotine, especially later in the day.

6. Establish a wind-down routine to signal your brain that it's time to relax and prepare for sleep.

7. Create a sleep environment that is cool, dark, and quiet to promote better sleep.
   

8. If you aren’t getting 7–9 hours of sleep, then go to bed 30 minutes later and wake up 30 minutes earlier to increase your sleep drive. After doing that for a few days, your body will crave an earlier bedtime, and you’ll get back on track.

Video Bite

Trouble sleeping? Join Darya Ovechkina for a relaxing ASMR Reiki session designed to help you unwind and achieve deep, restful sleep. Her gentle whispers and soothing energy work promote tranquility, preparing your mind and body for sleep.

Experience tingles and total body relaxation as she guides you into a peaceful slumber. Find the full sleep-inducing session on Sol TV.

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Mona & The Sol TV Team ❤️