I see light, deep, and REM sleep in my WHOOP data…what’s the difference, and why does it matter? Should I be trying to et more deep sleep or REM sleep?
The TLDR is that sleep is made up of different stages, each serving a unique role in recovery and performance. I’ve included some of the differences below:
- Light Sleep is the body’s bridge between wakefulness and deeper sleep. It helps with basic recovery processes like heart rate regulation and temperature control. While it’s not the most restorative stage, it’s essential for transitioning between sleep phases and makes up the largest percentage of total sleep. Most people people spend the most time in light sleep… it supports basic rest.
- Deep Sleep is the most physically restorative stage. During deep sleep, the body repairs muscles, tissues, and bones, releases growth hormone, and strengthens the immune system. It’s crucial for physical recovery, and a higher amount typically means your body is repairing effectively after stress, workouts, or illness.
- REM Sleep (Rapid Eye Movement) is primarily responsible for mental restoration. In REM sleep, the brain consolidates memories, processes emotions, and supports learning and creativity. It’s also when most vivid dreaming occurs. High-quality REM sleep is essential for cognitive performance, emotional resilience, and long-term brain health.
Each sleep stage plays an important role in preparing your body and mind for the day ahead, and maintaining a good balance across all three is key for optimal recovery and performance.
Each stage plays a role, so balancing them is key. Learn more here: Understanding Sleep Cycles and the Stages of Sleep.