Brain conditions in sleep

deep sleep, REM phaseThe falling asleep phase – most people are familiar with this. But current research shows that our brain doesn't just go through a few simple sleep phases at night, but rather a multitude of different states – up to 21 can now be identified using modern brain scanning technology.

What happens in our minds when we sleep? And how can this knowledge help us better understand sleep and improve it more effectively?

Table of contents

1. What happens in our brain during sleep
2. How science discovered new brain states
3. What these conditions reveal about our sleep quality
4. What we can learn from this for better sleep

5. Conclusion

1. What happens in our brain during sleep

Many people think of sleep as a way to "switch off" – but our brain is anything but passive at night. While we sleep, it processes impressions, forms memories, sorts through experiences, and regenerates neural connections.

Traditionally, sleep research distinguishes four to five phases: Light sleep, deep sleep, REM sleep etc. But in reality, the nighttime state of our brain is far more dynamic.

💡 New technologies enable even more precise insight into these “sleeping” brain activities – with surprising results.

2. How science discovered new brain states

A research team at Stanford University published a study in 2024 that used AI and EEG analysis to 21 different neuronal activity patterns during sleep. Instead of just looking at wave patterns (such as alpha or delta), they analyzed how different brain areas interact with each other.

Some of these states occurred only briefly; others repeated cyclically. They were often transitions between known sleep phases or even intermediate states that had previously been considered "noise."

This shows that sleep is not a rigid process, but a complex, fluid spectrum of states, which varies from person to person.

3. What these conditions reveal about our sleep quality

The new findings not only enable a better understanding but also new approaches to sleep assessment:

• Individual sleep profiles can be created – with unique state patterns.

• Early detection of sleep disorders becomes more precise because subtle deviations can be recognized.

• Also the Sleep effects of medication or stress can be measured in a more differentiated manner.

💬 Example: Two people could have the same Sleep duration have – but completely different "brain state patterns." Only one feels rested. Why? Because the quality and sequence of these states is crucial – not just the amount of sleep.

4. What we can learn from this for better sleep

Research into brain states is still in its early stages, but initial conclusions for everyday life are possible:

• Individual sleep tracking becomes more precise: Wearables could soon not only indicate REM or deep sleep, but also recognize entire state patterns.

• Personalized sleep advice: Instead of general tips, there could be recommendations based on your neural sleep profile.

• Stress, nutrition, light – everything influences state transitions: Mindfulness and conscious evening planning help to promote stable and restful patterns.

And very practical: Stable routines, no alcohol before bedtime, good sleep hygiene and reduced screen time support our brain in achieving and maintaining restful states.

5. Conclusion

• New research shows up to 21 different brain states during sleep

• These conditions provide information about quality, regeneration and individual sleep needs

• In the future, sleep diagnostics could become even more personal and precise

• For us, this means quality over quantity – and a better understanding of what constitutes truly restful sleep