Sleeping is crucial for both the body and mind to recharge. While asleep, we temporarily lose consciousness and control over our bodies. However, despite a lack of awareness, the brain remains highly active during this period and manages other essential bodily functions.
Sufficient sleep plays a vital role in maintaining our weight, enhances mood and lowers the risk of heart disease, as our body rejuvenates and repairs itself.
In recent years, there has been a growing interest among researchers in resolving the mysteries behind the links between sleeping and the functioning of the brain. Thanks to advanced technology and methods, scientists now possess knowledge about the functions of the sleeping brain.
Here are some of the most important recent studies revealing new insights into the links between sleep patterns and the functioning of the brain.
- Studies in sleep deprivation labs have shown that lack of sleep weakens the connections between brain regions. Such disruptions make it harder for the brain to learn, manage emotions and resist negative thoughts.
- Lucid dreaming happens when individuals are aware that they’re in a dream while still asleep. Interestingly, research has shown that some individuals are actually able to control or manipulate certain parts of their dreams. This typically happens during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. While some experience it naturally, others learn through training.
- Although we naturally sleep less as we get older, research suggests that sleep problems earlier in life may increase the risk of dementia. The build-up of a waste product called β-amyloid is linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Studies show that sleep problems can increase the build-up, while good sleep may slow or decline the process.
- During sleep, the brain replays and associates memories, which help in storing information for a longer period. Using machine learning to decode sleeping brain patterns, scientists revealed that neural patterns associated with memories re-emerge and strengthen memories during sleep.
- Experts are consistently doing research and developing treatments to improve sleep quality. Interestingly, in 2022, the cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) app became the first digital treatment recommended by England’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence for NHS treatment. This kind of technology is just the beginning of how we can use science to improve our sleep and our lives.
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