Sleeping Well: Sleeping Myths that Affect Rest

Sleep directly influences our physical, mental and emotional health.
However, despite their importance, many myths about sleep continue to circulate, distorting what it really means to sleep well.
In this article, we analyze each of them and discover what the truth is behind them.

Phases of the dream cycle

Each cycle lasts between 90 and 110 minutes and is repeated 4 to 6 times a night, depending on the total duration of rest.
Understanding these phases helps us to understand why continuous and deep sleep is essential for health.

• Phase 1 - Falling asleep
  This is the transition between wakefulness and sleep. It only lasts a few minutes, so any noise or stimulus can easily wake us up.

• Stage 2 - Light dreaming
  The body begins to relax gradually. Although it continues to be a superficial dream, it is now more difficult to wake up. This phase represents around 50% of the total dreaming time.

• Stage 3 - Deep sleep
  In this stage the body regenerates physically and muscularly. It is very difficult to wake up and it is up to you to start the day with energy.

• REM phase - Dreaming of dreams (Rapid Eye Movement)
  Brain activity increases, the eyes move quickly under cover and dreams are more intense.
  This phase is crucial for memory, learning and emotional balance. The body remains immobile as a protective mechanism. The REM phase appears about 90 minutes after sleep and lengthens with each cycle.

Dream: truth or myth?

There are numerous popular beliefs that seem harmless, but can influence the quality of rest.
Correcting habits and knowing the myths of sleep is fundamental to enjoying restorative nights and more productive days.

Myth: sleeping 8 hours is mandatory

Not always. Although the general recommendation is between 7 and 8 hours a night, this is not a universal rule.
Each person has different needs: some feel good with 6 hours, others need 9.
The important thing is to wake up feeling energized and rested.
The quality of sleep matters more than the quantity.

Watching TV or using your mobile helps you sleep

False. The blue light from the screens inhibits the production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep, making it difficult to reconcile and maintain.
Replace the devices with relaxing activities: reading, listening to soft music or practicing conscious breathing.

Waiting in bed until you go to sleep is a good idea

Not always. Being naked in bed can increase anxiety and create a negative association with the bedroom.
If you don't fall asleep after 20 or 30 minutes, get up, keep the light down and do something relaxing until the dream comes back naturally.

Sleeping with the light on does not affect rest

Myth: Light, especially white or blue light, reduces melatonin production and impairs deep sleep. The bedroom should be completely dark to promote rest.

Exercising at night is harmful to sleep

It depends. Intense exercise around bedtime can activate the body and make it difficult to relax.
On the other hand, gentle activities such as yoga or stretching can promote sleep.
The ideal thing is to finish the exercise 2 or 3 hours before going to bed.

Making up for the weekend solves tiredness

False. Sleeping more during the weekend can alter the biological rhythm and make it difficult to sleep during the week.
The best thing is to maintain regular sleep times every day.

Coffee only affects sleep if you drink it at night

Common mistake. Caffeine can have an influence even when consumed up to 6 hours before bedtime.
Although sensitivities vary, it is recommended to avoid caffeinated drinks in the afternoon or evening.

Remembering dreams means you slept soundly

Not necessarily. Remembering dreams frequently may indicate intermittent awakenings during the night.
Deep sleep is usually continuous and uninterrupted, so during this phase we usually don't remember dreams.

Sleeping with your mouth down is the best position

Not always. It depends on the body and the needs of each person.
Sleeping on your side, with the mattress well aligned, is usually the most recommended.
The important thing is to have a mattress that offers the right support for your natural posture.

On our blog you'll find tips on how to choose the best mattress to ensure a restful sleep.

Snoring is a sign of a deep dream

Wrong. Snoring can appear at any stage of sleep and, in many cases, indicates respiratory problems, such as sleep apnea.
It is not synonymous with deep rest or good sleep quality.

Sleeping well starts with the right knowledge

At Mercado del Colchón, we believe that sleeping well starts with truthful information and continues with the right mattress.
Because resting well isn't just about closing your eyes: it's about taking care of your body, your mind and your well-being.