Slow wave sleep (SWS), also known as deep sleep or non-rapid eye movement (NREM) stage 3 sleep, is one of the stages of sleep that occurs in recurring cycles throughout the night. It is characterized by slow brain waves known as delta waves on an electroencephalogram (EEG) and is typically associated with a deeper, more restorative sleep.
During slow wave sleep, the body undergoes various physiological changes. Heart rate, breathing rate, and blood pressure decrease, providing a period of rest and recovery for the body. It is during this stage that the body repairs and regenerates tissues, promotes growth and development, strengthens the immune system, and consolidates memories.
Slow wave sleep plays a crucial role in various physiological processes. It is believed to be important for physical restoration and recovery, promoting the growth and repair of muscles and tissues. It is also thought to play a role in immune function, as studies have shown that sleep deprivation and disruption of slow wave sleep can weaken the immune system.
Furthermore, slow wave sleep is associated with memory consolidation. It is during this stage that the brain processes and consolidates newly acquired information and memories, helping to improve learning and cognitive performance.
The amount of slow wave sleep experienced during a night's sleep tends to decrease with age. It is most prominent during the early part of the night, particularly during the first few sleep cycles. As the night progresses, the duration of slow wave sleep decreases, and the duration of REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, the stage associated with dreaming, increases.
Overall, slow wave sleep is an essential stage of sleep that contributes to physical restoration, immune function, and memory consolidation. It is a vital component of a healthy sleep cycle, and disruptions in slow wave sleep can have negative effects on various aspects of physical and cognitive functioning.