How do I improve the quality of my sleep?
Ask the doctor
How many hours of sleep do I need each night, and how do I improve the quality of my sleep?Your question about the quality of sleep is really important. The stage of sleep that brings the greatest benefits is deep sleep, also called slow-wave sleep. It has that name because the electrical waves created by your brain become larger and less frequent ("slow"). During deep sleep, your heart rate and breathing slow down and your muscles relax. You're also much harder to awaken, and when you do wake, you feel groggy (and do poorly on brain tests) for the next 30 minutes (it's called "sleep inertia"). Roughly 20% of your total sleep is spent in deep sleep.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
