What is the Origin of Rapid Eye Movement?

The term was coined in the 1950s following the discovery of this unique physiological phenomenon during electroencephalogram (EEG) studies of sleeping infants, which revealed a clear, measurable stage distinct from non-REM sleep. The term is purely descriptive of the observable eye movements.

What is the Mechanism of Rapid Eye Movement?

REM sleep is initiated by complex neurochemical signaling in the brainstem, involving cholinergic and aminergic pathways, which drives the characteristic physiological changes. Acetylcholine activity is high, facilitating the active, waking-like brain waves, while the motor paralysis, or atonia, is mediated by GABA and glycine signaling in the spinal cord, preventing the body from acting out dreams.

Rapid Eye Movement ∞ Area

Rapid Eye Movement

Meaning

A distinct and essential stage of sleep, commonly referred to as REM sleep, characterized by the rapid, darting movement of the eyes, a complete paralysis of voluntary muscles, and brainwave activity that closely resembles the waking state. REM sleep is critically important for cognitive processes, including emotional regulation, memory consolidation, and procedural learning. It is during this phase that most vivid dreaming occurs.