benefits of good sleep - psychstarpsychstar.ca/resources/benefits-of-sleep_2014.pdf · benefits of...
TRANSCRIPT
Benefits of Good Sleep
Michael Lee Zwiers, Ph.D., 2014
SLEEP IS VITAL FOR HEALTH AND WELLBEING.
What happens when we sleep?
Sleep has 5 phases that repeat about 4 to 5 times (or cycles).
During sleep, the body heals, the brain consolidates learning, and weare rejuvenated.
Executive Functions
The prefrontal cortex, part of the frontallobe, is impaired by ADHD.
It has several important functions including:judgment, organization, impulse control,attention, and mental flexibility.
The prefrontal cortex is usually the mostactive area of the brain in well-restedindividuals.
ALPHA➜ THETA:Light Sleep
5 - 10 mins
SLEEP SPINDLESDeeper Sleep
15 - 20 mins
DELTA:Deep Sleep
DELTA:Very Deep Sleep
30 mins
ALPHA: REMSleep
5 - 10+ mins
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Benefits of Good Sleep
Michael Lee Zwiers, Ph.D., 2014
The prefrontal cortex regenerates duringthe first stage of sleep, so you can feelsomewhat refreshed and clear headedafter only a short nap.
Learning While You Sleep
REM sleep is the final stage of the sleepcycle and is important in learning andmemory. When a person is taught a newskill, his or her performance does notimprove until he or she receives at leasteight hours of sleep.
An extended period of sleep ensures thatthe brain will be able to complete the fullsleep cycle, including REM sleep, so youcan wake up feeling rested.