synaptic pruning process during sleep
Dr. Parth Nagda, consultant physician at the Department of Psychology, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Navi Mumbai (India), believes that sleep not only helps the body recover but also plays an important role in handling emotions and strengthening memory.
negative memories that are not handled properly can seriously affect our mental health. Getting enough sleep is an effective way to reduce the impact of these negative memories.
One of the reasons why sleep is able to help eliminate negative memories is synaptic pruning. This is a mechanism in which unused or unnecessary neural connections are eliminated, while vital connections are strengthened.
This process mainly occurs during sleep, especially during the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) phase. During this process, the brain reorganizes nerve connections, eliminates negative thoughts and strengthens positive connections.
Sleep is a medicine for the mind
Sleep helps control cortisol levels, a stress hormone, creating a safe space for the brain, thereby rearranging and processing memories more gently.
According to Dr. Parth Nagda, just one or two good nights of sleep can help reduce feelings of pain, stress and anxiety. If we sleep regularly throughout the week, combined with a healthy lifestyle such as exercise, meditation, or psychological therapy, we will see long-term positive changes.
Sharing the same view Dr. Shreshtha Gupta, a practicing psychologist at safdarjung Hospital (India), also believes that sleep not only strengthens memory and processes emotions but also contributes to brain development and increased alertness.
In particular, REM sleep, which occurs mainly between 2 and 4 am, is associated with a strong immune system thanks to brain waves during this phase. These brain waves not only help repair damage but also enhance the body's immunity.
Getting enough sleep not only helps the body recover but also has an important effect in processing and eliminating negative memories. Therefore, a good night's sleep is not only good for the body but also an essential part of protecting our psychological and emotional health.
