Many people require a full 8 hours of sleep each night to feel rested and alert the next day, while others may need more or less than that. Those who require more sleep may be referred to as long sleepers.

While getting enough sleep is important for overall health and well-being, some long sleepers may also experience more nightmares than the average person.

What is a long sleeper?

Long sleepers are individuals who require more sleep than the average adult, typically around 8 hours per night. Some long sleepers may require up to 10 hours of sleep each night to function properly.

While it’s not uncommon to feel tired occasionally, long sleepers have a persistent need for more sleep on a regular basis. This may be due to a number of factors, including underlying medical conditions, lifestyle habits, genetic predisposition, or simply individual differences in sleep needs.

What are nightmares?

Nightmares are vivid, disturbing dreams that often cause a strong emotional response, such as fear or terror. They typically occur during the REM (rapid eye movement) stage of sleep, which is associated with heightened brain activity.

While nightmares are generally harmless, they can be unsettling and may interfere with sleep quality, causing daytime sleepiness or fatigue.

Why do long sleepers experience more nightmares?

While the exact reason why long sleepers experience more nightmares is not completely understood, there are a few theories. One theory suggests that long sleepers spend more time in the REM stage of sleep, which is when most dreaming occurs.

This could increase the likelihood of experiencing a nightmare. Another theory suggests that those who require more sleep may have a more active or overactive brain, which could contribute to more vivid or intense dreams.

How can you reduce nightmares?

There are several ways to reduce the frequency or intensity of nightmares:.

Avoid consuming caffeine, alcohol, or heavy meals before bed
Create a relaxing sleep environment, such as a cool, dark room with comfortable bedding
Establish a regular sleep schedule and stick to it
Practice stress-relieving techniques, such as yoga or meditation
Talk to a healthcare provider if nightmares persist or interfere with sleep quality

Conclusion

Being a long sleeper is a normal variation in sleep needs, but it may come with some challenges, such as increased risk for nightmares.

Understanding the potential reasons for this can help individuals take steps to improve their sleep quality and reduce the frequency of nightmares. If nightmares persist or significantly impact sleep quality, speaking with a healthcare provider may be helpful.