Tiefschlafzustände

Tiefschlafzustände, also known as deep sleep stages, refer to specific phases of sleep characterized by significant physiological changes. These stages are typically part of the non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep cycle, following lighter stages of sleep. During deep sleep, brain wave activity slows down considerably, exhibiting slow delta waves. This is in contrast to the faster, more active brain waves seen during wakefulness or REM sleep.

Physically, deep sleep is marked by a decrease in heart rate and breathing rate, and a relaxation of muscles. It is also the period when the body undertakes crucial restorative processes. This includes tissue repair and growth, muscle building, and immune system strengthening. Growth hormone release is particularly prominent during these stages, which is vital for development and cellular regeneration.

Deep sleep is essential for feeling rested and rejuvenated. Disruptions to deep sleep can lead to daytime fatigue, impaired cognitive function, and potentially long-term health consequences. Factors such as age, stress, and certain medical conditions can affect the amount and quality of deep sleep an individual experiences. While the exact duration varies, most adults spend a significant portion of their total sleep time in these restorative deep sleep stages.