Stage of the five-stage sleep cycle

Definition

Each stage of the five-stage sleep cycle represents a different level of sleep, ranging from light to deep sleep. These stages are characterized by specific brain wave patterns, eye movements, and muscle activity.

Related terms

Stage 1: This is the lightest stage of sleep where you may experience hypnagogic hallucinations or sudden muscle contractions.

Stage 2: In this stage, your brain produces bursts of rapid rhythmic brainwave activity known as sleep spindles.

Stage 3: Also called "deep sleep" or "slow-wave sleep," this is the stage where delta waves dominate and your body repairs itself.