Do you ever wonder what happens when you sleep? While you may think you are shutting down for the night, your brain is actually very active. So active in fact that it goes through 5 cycles or sleep stages. Here’s more to better explain these stages.

Stage 1
This is a light sleeping stage where you often drift in and out of sleep and can be easily awakened by noise or other distractions. You may feel your eyes getting heavy and they will start to move slowly. You’ll also notice that muscle activity slows down. It’s not uncommon to experience sudden muscle contractions or have a falling sensation. This stage doesn’t last long, around 7 minutes.

Stage 2
Stage 2 is also a light stage sleep where you can be easily awakened. Sleep spindles, or sudden activity in brain waves occur during this stage. Your body temperature and heart rate will start to drop as you prepare to enter a deep sleep. It is recommended to sleep in a cool environment for better more restful sleep. The TEMPUR-Breeze™ mattress includes cooling and moisture-wicking material and helps to dissipate heat.

Stage 3
Enter stage 3 of your sleep cycle. This is where brain activity slows down, called delta waves, and is mixed with small bursts of activity. In this stage, you are in a deep sleep. If you have ever experienced sleepwalking, nightmares, or sleep talking, it has happened in stage 3. You start to experience restorative sleep.

Stage 4
You will continue to experience deep sleep in stage 4. Your brain will exclusively produce delta waves, and if you are woken up during stage 4, you might feel disoriented or confused for a few minutes until you are fully awake.

Stage 5
Also known as REM sleep. (Rapid Eye Movement) This is where your brain is the most active. Although still asleep, your eyes move rapidly from side to side. Rapid eye movement occurs when you are experiencing dreams and intense brain activity.

Stages 3 and 4 are very important for you because you will restore your immune system, your body, and muscles. If you are not experiencing restorative sleep, it could be that your body isn’t getting the support it needs. Tossing and turning, waking up stiff or sore, and feeling tired during the day can be directly related to having an old or unsupportive mattress. Using our exclusive RIGHTfit technology, the Factory Mattress sleep experts can help you find the best mattress fit perfectly for you with the right amount of support.