How to Achieve REM Sleep

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Make the Sandman your best friend when you use these tips to achieve REM, or rapid eye movement sleep -- and experience its restorative benefits.

Step 1: Consult physician
Consult a physician or sleep specialist to determine whether you have a disorder, such as sleep apnea, that interferes with your ability to achieve REM sleep.

Tip
Recognize REM sleep by more rapid breathing and limb immobilization.

Step 2: Strive for quality sleep
Strive for an overall quality sleep experience by developing a healthy lifestyle including a regular bedtime schedule, exercise, and relaxation.

Tip
Know the first REM period occurs between 70 and 90 minutes after falling asleep.

Step 3: Reduce interruptions
Reduce external factors which may interrupt sleep to allow the regular dream-rich REM sleep periods to occur and expand throughout the night.

Tip
Maintain a comfortable bedroom temperature to avoid sleep disruption.

Step 4: Avoid antidepressants
Avoid taking antidepressants which may suppress REM sleep, and be aware that decongestants, diet pills, and caffeinated beverages may also thwart your ability to achieve REM sleep.

Step 5: Avoid cigarettes
Don't smoke which often leads to light sleep and reduced amounts of REM sleep.

Step 6: Avoid alcohol
Avoid alcohol consumption which keeps people in a light sleep stage and reduces one's ability to reach REM sleep stages.

Step 7: Sleep longer
Extend your time in bed if necessary to get at least 7 hours of sleep each night, providing ample time for REM cycles to occur. Now, enjoy waking up in the morning rested and ready to conquer the world.

Did You Know?
If it takes you less than 5 minutes to fall asleep, you are sleep-deprived.