The normal amount of REM sleep for healthy adults is typically about 20-25% of total sleep time. For someone who sleeps 7 to 8 hours a night, this translates to around 90 to 120 minutes (1.5 to 2 hours) of REM sleep. The amount of REM sleep usually occurs in multiple cycles during the night, starting about 60 to 90 minutes after falling asleep, with each REM period getting longer toward the morning. REM sleep tends to decrease with age, and infants spend much more time in REM sleep compared to adults.
In summary:
- REM sleep usually comprises 20-25% of total sleep.
- For 7-8 hours of sleep, about 90-120 minutes of REM is normal.
- Multiple REM cycles occur, lengthening with each cycle.
- REM sleep declines with age.
Getting enough REM sleep is important for brain functions like memory, emotional processing, and overall health.
