Yötiloja

Yötiloja is a Finnish term that translates to "night states" or "night modes." It most commonly refers to the various sleep stages and cycles that occur during a typical night's rest. Understanding yötiloja is crucial for comprehending the restorative functions of sleep.

The main components of yötiloja include REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep and NREM (Non-Rapid Eye Movement) sleep. NREM sleep is further divided into three stages: N1, N2, and N3. N1 is the lightest stage, transitioning from wakefulness to sleep. N2 is a deeper stage characterized by specific brainwave patterns. N3, also known as deep sleep or slow-wave sleep, is the most restorative stage, essential for physical recovery and growth. REM sleep is characterized by rapid eye movements, vivid dreaming, and muscle atonia.

During a night, individuals cycle through these yötiloja multiple times. These cycles typically last around 90 to 110 minutes each. The proportion of REM and NREM sleep changes throughout the night, with more deep sleep occurring in the earlier cycles and more REM sleep in the later cycles. Disruptions to these natural yötiloja can lead to sleep disorders and negatively impact daytime functioning, cognitive abilities, and overall health. Factors like age, stress, and lifestyle choices can influence the quality and structure of one's yötiloja.