Biological Approach: Ultradian Rhythm

Question 1

What are Ultradian Rhythms

Answer 1

A cycle repeated throughout 24 hour circadian day.

Question 2

Stage 1 of sleep

Answer 2

Relatively light stage of sleep, and is considered to be a transition period between wakefulness and sleep. Slow brain waves in this stage. Lasts around 5-10 minutes.

Question 3

Stage 2 of sleep cycle

Answer 3

Lasts around 20 minutes and the brain begins to produce bursts of rapid, rhythmic brain wave activity known as sleep spindles. Body temp and heart rate decrease.

Question 4

Stage 3 of sleep cycle

Answer 4

Deep, slow brain waves known as delta waves begin to emerge during stage 3 sleep, transition period between light sleep and very deep sleep.

Question 5

Stage 4 of sleep cycle

Answer 5

Slow brain waves known as delta waves. Lasts around 30 minutes.

Question 6

REM - stage 5 of sleep cycle

Answer 6

Dreaming occurs during REM sleep and is characterised by the rapid and random movement of the eyes as well as increased respiration rate and increased brain activity. We have around 3-5 REM episodes a night. Dreaming occurs because of increased brain activity but voluntary muscles become paralysed. About 20-25% of sleep is REM.