Final answer:
Before REM sleep comes stage 2 sleep, which is marked by sleep spindles and K-complexes. Stage 2 sleep is part of non-REM sleep and is characterized by a state of deep relaxation crucial for learning and memory.
Step-by-step explanation:
Stages of Sleep Before REM Sleep
The stage of sleep that usually comes before REM sleep is known as stage 2 sleep. During this stage, the body enters a state of deep relaxation characterized by specific brain wave patterns, including sleep spindles and K-complexes. Sleep spindles are rapid bursts of high frequency brain waves that play a role in learning and memory, and K-complexes are single high-amplitude waves. These patterns are distinct markers of stage 2 sleep.
After progressing through the three stages of non-REM sleep, individuals enter REM sleep. It is in NREM stage 3 sleep, also referred to as deep sleep or slow-wave sleep, where there are low frequency, high amplitude delta waves. The presence of these delta waves makes it difficult to awaken someone, and this stage is crucial for physical restoration and health. It's only after this deep stage of sleep that REM sleep, known for dreaming and brain activity similar to wakefulness, typically occurs.