Which stage of sleep is typically associated with vivid dreaming?

REM sleep, or Rapid Eye Movement sleep, is the stage of sleep most commonly associated with vivid dreaming. This stage occurs cyclically throughout the night, typically beginning about 90 minutes after falling asleep and repeating every 90 minutes thereafter. During REM sleep, the brain becomes highly active, approaching the level of activity seen when awake, while the body experiences atonia, or a temporary paralysis of most voluntary muscles. This unique combination of brain activity and lack of movement contributes to the intensity and vividness of dreams in this phase.

Dreaming can occur in other stages of sleep, but it is during REM sleep that the dreams are often more elaborate, narrative-driven, and emotional. This is a critical period for the brain to process information, consolidate memories, and regulate emotions, further enhancing the complexity of dreams experienced in this state.