State of insensibility to pain. It is induced by various pharmacologic agents, such as general anesthetics (drugs that cause anesthesia) and local anesthetics (drugs that cause anesthesia in a specific area).

A neurotransmitter that facilitates communication between two neurons. Acetylcholine is synthesized in the brain and released into synaptic junctions, where it binds to receptors on its target cell and triggers an action potential. It is the only known neurotransmitter with this mechanism of action during high-frequency stimulation (e.g., 250 HZ).

This is a process of tracking sleep habits. To practice actigraphy, you would wear a device on your wrist to record sleep data and understand your habits.

Cognitive model of the dreaming process. It was first proposed by J. Allan Hobson and Robert McCarley in 1977. According to this model, dreams are caused by the activation of certain parts of the brain that result in the formation of imagery. This imagery is then "synthesized" into a dream narrative by the part of the brain responsible for memory and reasoning. This model has been heavily criticized over the years, but it remains one of the most popular theories about how dreams are formed.

A theory that suggests we revise and update our understanding of information as we retain it. It's believed that by updating our memories, we can amplify the things we want to learn and de-emphasize things learned before.

This is a material made from the modification of polyurethane. When used to make mattresses, it is highly responsive and molds to the body comfortably.

Adenosine is created when ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the main energy molecule of the body, is broken down. Adenosine then binds to receptors on nerve cells, which can slow down nerve cell activity. This process helps to regulate nerve cell function and energy metabolism. Additionally, adenosine has been shown to be involved in various aspects of cognition and memory formation.

This is a support system under your mattress that allows you to change the position of some parts to enhance comfort. You can raise up the mattress under your feet or head with a mobile application or remote control. It also helps with ailments related to sleeping like snoring and back ache.

Also known as epinephrine, is a hormone that has the effect of increasing heart rate and contractility, constricting blood vessels to divert blood flow into muscles during emergencies or when experiencing extreme emotions. The fight or flight response includes the release of adrenaline from the adrenal glands.

Sleep disorder that affects the timing of sleep and wakefulness. People with ASPS fall asleep earlier than most other people - usually in the early evening, only a couple hours after sundown. At its worst, sufferers can arrive at this state as much as two hours before sunset.

Substance that binds to the same receptor at which an endogenous neurotransmitter or drug acts. Agonists may be either naturally occurring or synthetic substances, most often molecules with opioid activity. They produce the same general effects in their target organisms as does the original substance, but not always with equal efficacy. An example is codeine, which has less pain relief than morphine because it functions as an agonist for mu receptors rather than an antagonist like naloxone.

This is a mattress size that measures 108 inches by 108 inches. It is a square mattress that is known for being popularly available yet uncommon when it comes to purchase. This is because it is highly oversized.

This is a square mattress with a measurement of 96 inches on all sides. It is shorter than the Alaskan king on all sides by a foot.

Brainwaves that are emitted when a person is awake, relaxed and unfocused. They are the second most common type of brainwave after beta waves.

Founded in 1975, this is an organization based on using sleep to enhance the health of others. They do this by optimizing sleep.

This is an organization that trains healthcare professionals to collect a clinical hypnosis certification.

Small but important brain structure in the temporal lobe that is the site of many emotional and autonomic reactions. It can be seen as a mutual response between cells in this area when responding to stressful situations.

Refers to the metabolic process that is characterized by the building up of tissue. It is initiated by the anabolic hormone insulin, which acts upon the cells of the muscle and liver to promote the synthesis of glycogen from glucose, to promote the storage of fat in adipose tissue, and to stimulate protein synthesis.

Term for medications that lessen or turn off certain hormones. For example, someone who has high levels of growth hormone (hGH) may take drugs like Somatostatin which shuts down the body's production of hGH. Common types of antagonists include p-ones (prefix "p" stands for negative), which act as antagonists to agonists; it blocks, instead of activates, receptors for neurotransmitters (e.g., prazosin). Drugs that are used as antagonists are often used to control symptoms related to receptor sites lacking natural activity.

Sleep disorder where the person has periods of not breathing. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), where the airway becomes blocked during sleep. This can lead to a number of health problems, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. OSA is diagnosed through a test called polysomnography, which measures brain waves, eye movement, muscle activity, breathing patterns, and blood oxygen levels. Treatment for OSA usually involves lifestyle changes and/or CPAP therapy.

Physiological state of being awake and responsive to stimuli. It occurs in response to both external and internal stimuli, in animals as well as humans. Arousal is important for survival, because it enables an animal or human to react quickly to important environmental or internal cues.

The point at which a stimuli or event becomes strong enough to generate a response from an individual. In terms of sleep, it's the point at which someone becomes alert and wakes up.

Lack of muscle tone, or the inability to produce a sustained muscle contraction. It can refer to muscles throughout the body, but is often used specifically in reference to the muscles of the throat and larynx. Atonic seizures are seizures which are caused by a sudden loss of muscle tone.

Experience of hearing a loud noise just as you are falling asleep. It can be startling and may cause you to wake up abruptly.

State of automaticity in which behaviors are performed without conscious control or awareness. Most often, automatic behavior occurs when a person is in a state of sleep or trance. For example, when people are asleep, they may continue to move their limbs even though they are not consciously aware of what they are doing.

This is a term used to describe the structure supporting your mattress. It can increase the height of the mattress too. There are different types of bases including foundation, slatted base, box spring, platform bed and adjustable base.

Also called the support core, this is the lower and thick layer of the mattress which usually consists of dense polyfoam, air chambers, metal springs and Dunlop latex.

This is a structure built to elevate the mattress. The mattress is usually installed into the bed frame which can be made from wood or metal, and it supports the entire mattress. It usually ha a headboard, footboard and four legs holding it all together.

As the name implies, this is when a mattress is packaged in a box to be delivered. It would be compressed, vacuum sealed and rolled before being placed in a box.

Also known medically as enuresis, is the involuntary discharge of urine during sleep. It is more common in children, but can occur at any age.

This is a type of fan that has been designed for beds, and it is used to make the environment cooler during sleep. It can be installed in your bed after purchase.

Brain waves with a frequency of 12Hz to 38Hz. They are associated with being alert and active, and with the ability to focus and pay attention. When beta waves are dominant, you tend to feel mentally clear, focused, and energetic.

Type of schedule where you sleep twice per day. Some biphasic sleepers use alarms to go to bed at night, then wake up for an hour or two in the middle of the day before they go back to bed.

This is the mixing of synthetic and natural latex, and can also include other fillers like sand or clay. It can be used in the making of mattresses.

These are the indentations caused by laying down on a mattress, and can remain there for a long time. The more it sags, the less comfort it offers.

These are coils connected to helical wires. They are shaped as hourglasses and are less responsive and inexpensive.

Similar to responsiveness, this is how quickly a mattress regains its shape when the weight on it has been removed. Bouncy mattresses make it easier to move around.

This is a type of base that consists of reliable coils and a wooden frame. Their first use is to support innerspring mattresses.

Oscillations of voltage that occur in the brain and reflect different states of neural activity. Different types of brain waves are associated with different mental states, such as relaxation, focus, sleep, and thinking.

Posterior part of the brain, and it's responsible for essential functions like breathing and heart rate. It also coordinates signals between the brain and spinal cord, and between different parts of the brain.

This is the period that you need to use a mattress before you can claim that it doesn’t meet your expectations and ask for a replacement. It can be between two weeks and thirty days.

This shows you how air flows through a mattress. The more breathable a mattress is, the cooler it is during summer yet more comfortable during winter.

Form of therapy that uses bright light to treat certain mental health conditions. It was initially developed to treat seasonal affective disorder (SAD), but it has since been found to be helpful in treating other conditions, such as depression, bipolar disorder, and jet lag.

These are types of sounds that can help people sleep better. Also called red noise and Brownian noise, this consists of different noises with varying frequencies and energies.

This is a mattress size that measure 72 inches wide by 84 inches long. It is the longest mattress size in the series of standard mattresses. It is four inches longer yet four inches narrower than a normal king mattress.

This is a mattress size that has a measurement of 60 inches wide by 84 inches long. It is a non-standard size, and is longer than the normal queen mattress by 4 inches.

It is what you get when caring for a sick family member and/or pet over an extended period of time, where the lack of sleep leads to increased levels of stress and apathy. It can have significant negative effects on caregivers' ability to function effectively. In addition, the quality of care may suffer when caregivers become excessively fatigued from constant sleeplessness.

Refers to the metabolic process that breaks down molecules into smaller units. This process releases energy which can be used by the cells to carry out their functions. The reverse process, anabolism, builds up molecules from smaller units.

Neurologic disorder associated with narcolepsy, an incurable neurological condition. The condition causes sudden episodes of "fainting" or total collapse when strong emotions are experienced.

Also known as breath holding spells, is a neurological condition where a person holds their breath for a few seconds before releasing it.

Active or occurring at both day and night; diurnal and nocturnal. Most animals are cathemeral, with a few exceptions like the owl who is mainly nocturnal. Cathemerality is advantageous because it allows an animal to be more active and have greater foraging opportunities during both the daylight and nighttime hours.

Major control center for your body. It's composed of two organs, the brain and spinal cord. Your spinal cord is made up of 31 pairs of nerves that carry messages between the rest of your body and your brain. The brain is made up of about 100 billion neurons, which receive signals from thousands more in the peripheral nervous system (i.e., all points outside or on the periphery to an organ).

A disorder in which episodes of temporary breathing cessation during sleep are caused by the brain failing to send the necessary signals to resume breathing.

This is a certification that can be obtained by healthcare professionals to show that they are effective in using hypnotherapy for treatment.

This is a certification assigned to organic materials on mattresses. Those that qualify to be organic materials include latex, cotton and wool, and they are tested based on the practices in sourcing and processing them.

This is a United States certification for foam materials up for purchase. If you see the label on your mattress, it means that it was made with no phthalates and other heavy metals.

This is a flower that can be used to make tea, and although it has many uses, the most popular involves using it as a sleep aid.

Sleep disorder that is characterized by difficulty falling asleep, difficulty staying asleep, or both. It can last from a few days to a few months, but typically lasts for more than a month.

Neural network in the brain that regulates the body's internal clock, or circadian rhythm.

Physical, biochemical process that takes place in the brain. These clocks control our cycles of sleep and wakefulness. Circadian rhythms are typically synchronized to the 24-hour cycle of light and darkness, even if they're never exposed to any external stimulus.

An endogenous 24h "clock" that biases the body towards wakefulness, rather than sleep. It synchronizes our body's internal clock with the time of day by emitting periods of light information.

The length of time it takes for a circadian clock to complete one full cycle. It's around 24 hours long in most organisms.

This is also called a sleep-wake cycle. It is used to describe the 24-hour sleep-wake cycle that all living organisms go through.

This is a sleeping disorder that can lead to poor and low-quality of sleep. It is caused when the light-dark cycle and circadian rhythm of the body is disconnected.

Practice of sharing a sleep surface with a child, typically your bed.

This is a form of talk therapy that is directed towards curing insomnia in patients. It helps patients modify their cognitive behaviors and beliefs though coping mechanisms.

As the name implies, this is the number of coils the entire mattress or each layer contains. The larger the mattress, the more the coils, although knowing the number does not mean you automatically know the quality of the bed.

This is used to measure how thick a coil is, and for mattresses, the value can go as high as 17. The higher the value, the thinner the coils and softer the mattress.

This is a setting where two layers of metal coil are combined in a single mattress. There is a layer on top usually consisting of microcoils or pocketed coils while the bottom is made up of any type of supporting coil.

Profound state of unconsciousness. The patient cannot be aroused and does not respond to any forms of external stimuli. Coma may be due to a variety of medical conditions, such as head injury, stroke, poisoning, or drug overdose. It can also result from diseases that affect the brain, such as meningitis or encephalitis.

This is a quality of a mattress that shows how well it allows for relaxation, conforming, contouring, breathability and more. It is subjective, meaning it depends on the sleeper.

This is the exchange policy of a mattress company, like the amount of time you have in which you can return the mattress or exchange it with another one if it doesn’t meet up to your expectations.

This is the topmost layer of the mattress and has the most impact on the feel of the mattress when you lay on it. This is why the comfort layer is usually made with soft materials.

A form of insomnia caused by stress, anxiety, or an association with the bed that promotes sleep.

This means how the mattress conforms to the shape of your body when you lay on it. The more it molds to your body, the better pressure and comfort it offers.

A sleep disorder that can occur when you first fall asleep, during light sleep, or in the early stages of deep sleep. It causes you to become confused and disoriented. You may thrash around, speak gibberish, or shout out. You may not know who or where you are.

Psychodynamic theory, which suggests that dreams are simply real memories from the day being stored as video-like simulations for random later retrieval.

This is a network of coils created with the same wire. When you have continuous coils in your mattress, you can expect durability, firmness, affordability and stability.

Process of blow-by oxygen forced into the lungs at a fixed rate, helping provide relief for people who are experiencing respiratory problems. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is an effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea.

This is also similar to conforming and it shows how much the surface of the mattress hugs your body and reduces pressure.

This type of foam looks similar to an egg carton because of the dimpled texture. Its structure improves the breathability and support of a mattress, and can be used in all layers. It can also be made of memory foam or polyfoam.

As the name implies, this is memory foam or polyfoam with copper in it. This prevent microbial growth in mattresses and direct heat away from the body when laying on the mattress.

This is a hormone that usually has a high level with those diagnosed with depression and anxiety. It is secreted in the body and the higher the levels are, the more disrupted the sleep cycle would become. It is also high in those that have insomnia.

Phenomenon that occurs when cortisol levels rapidly increase upon waking.Usually accompanied by unpleasant symptoms such as dizziness, headache, nausea, and sweating. It usually lasts for 30-60 minutes, but can persist for up to 2 hours.

This is the outer fabric layer of a mattress, and in most cases, it cannot be removed. It is an integrated part of the mattress for protection and cushioning.

Crepuscular animals are those that are active primarily during twilight--the period shortly after sunset and before sunrise. This time of day is advantageous to these animals because it is much harder for predators to see them, and they can also take advantage of the increased activity of prey at this time.

Type of protein made and released by immune cells such as white blood cells. It acts as a signal outside the cell, and stimulates or inhibits the function of other cells in the host organism. In some instances, cytokines make one sleepy due to the increased levels of interleukin-6.

The outer layer or "gray matter" of your brain. Located in the front part of your head, it's thinner than an inch and extends over the entire surface of the brain, although it doesn't go all the way through. It's made up mostly of nerve cells called neurons that branch out to form networks with each other.

Study of circadian rhythms and their effects on living organisms. Circadian rhythms are physical, mental, and behavioral changes that follow a roughly 24-hour cycle, responding primarily to light and darkness in an organism's environment.

Ьodern approach to treating these disorders by shifting the patient's circadian rhythms forward or backward. The idea behind chronotherapy is that most people's inner clock is calibrated about an hour longer than it actually needs to be. If you're living with someone who needs to sleep at 11pm, for example, your sleep schedule might be 10pm. If you then shift your schedule by two hours every day until you reach that level of offset then they'll see that difference reflected in their own inner clock within a few days' time

Person's natural time of day that they feel most productive.

A state of mind that falls somewhere between sleep and wakefulness. It's a type of reverie in which a person drifts aimlessly from thought to thought, sometimes sparked by images or memories that randomly pop into one's head.

This is how much a mattress can support body parts that sink more into the mattress like your hips. The better the support, the less chance for your mattress to sink while using. It’s especially ideal for sleepers over 230 pounds.

This is another type of Circadian Rhythm Sleep-Wake Disorder, which is identified when the patient has a delayed sleep pattern. Here, they find it difficult to go to sleep at a time that makes sense compared to their daily responsibilities and schedule.

Electrical waves (0.5-4 Hz) that are produced by the brain when the individual enters deep sleep, or any other time in which they drift in and out of consciousness.

A denser material in mattresses mean that it is more durable and firmer. It is measured by pounds per cubic foot.

This is an antidepressant that is usually prescribed to patients that have trouble sleeping.

This is a cough medicine which leads to drowsiness and can make patients sleep.

Refers to a daily pattern of behavior in which an animal's active period is during the daytime and will sleep or rest at night.

This is a sleep aid that takes people through breathing exercises. These exercises help them to relax, then leading to sleep.

Neurotransmitter that is responsible for the pleasure and reward centres in the brain. It is also involved in movement, cognition, attention and motivation.

This is an antihistamine drug that is used short-term to treat insomnia.

Sequence of sensations experienced during sleep. Dreaming typically occurs when groups of neurons are active within long loops between various areas of your brainstem, midbrain, cerebral cortex and other structures on both sides of your head. Dreaming happens mostly during REM or rapid-eye movement sleep, the stage in which the eyes dart back and forth quickly.

This is a type of latex made with the Dunlop process. It is usually firm and durable, so it can be found in the mattress core and comfort layer.

By durability, we mean how a mattress lasts in the face of wear and tear. Durability shows how long a mattress can last, although the average should be between 7 and 10 years. Durability depends on the quality, weight, type and core of the mattress.

A group of sleep disorders that involve problems with sleep initiation, maintenance, consolidation, or quality. These disorders can lead to excessive daytime sleepiness, which can negatively impact quality of life and productivity.

This lets you know how freely you can move around on your mattress. It includes how the mattress reacts when you change your sleeping pattern, get in and out, and have sex.

This is a certification that indicates that the foam of your mattress has been tested for VOC emissions by third party.

This is also about support, but based on the outermost part of the mattress. The better the edge support, the stronger the surface area.

This is a luxurious and expensive type of cotton that can be found in mattresses. It is an extra-long staple fiber known for its softness and breathability. It is gotten from the Gossypium Barbadense cotton plant in Egypt.

A test used to measure the electrical activity of the brain. This test is often used to diagnose sleep disorders, such as narcolepsy or epilepsy. It can also be used to diagnose certain neurological conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease or a tumor.

A diagnostic procedure to measure the electrical activity of muscles. Muscles produce electrical signals when they contract. The electrical signal is measured by placing electrodes on the skin over the muscle. This test can be used to detect problems with the muscles and nerves.

Measurement of electrical voltages in or above the eye. Humans are continuously producing small electrical impulses called "extremely low frequency" (ELF) slow waves, which fluctuate with brain activity. The amplitude and speed of ELF slow waves can be measured using electrooculography, which records muscle contractions by electrodes placed on the edge of an individual's eyes near their eyelids or under their lower lids at points to where high-voltage ELF currents enter through the cornea. These readings correspond to periods when the eyes are closed. This information together will help diagnose sleep disorders including apnoea, insomnia, narcolepsy and cataplexy among others things.

A rare inflammation of the brain that causes fever, headache, confusion, and drowsiness. In some cases it also leads to profound sleepiness and even coma. The cause of encephalitis lethargica is unknown, but it may be related to a viral infection

Refers to something that originates from within oneself or its environment.

A hormone, also known as adrenaline, that is secreted by the adrenal gland. It raises the heart rate and blood pressure to prepare the body for "fight or flight." Sympathetic nervous system dominance allows epinephrine to access fat stores in muscles and fatty acids from adipose tissue which it can then bind with beta receptors on cells throughout various tissues to generate cellular responses.

Type of chronic insomnia that lasts only for the duration of one night. The individual may have good sleep one night, followed by several hours with episodic wakefulness. Episodes are typically preceded by an accumulation of hyperarousal symptoms.

A questionnaire used to measure daytime sleepiness. It contains eight questions, with each question rated on a scale from 0 (not at all sleepy) to 3 (very sleepy), for a total possible score of 24.

The act of hibernating or taking a period of inactivity owing to heat. It is also called dormancy. Animals will go into estivation during the heat of summertime periods when it becomes too hot for them to comfortably stay active, or without any food available that can help keep them sustained throughout the day.

Also called Euro-Top, this makes the comfort system of a mattress plushier. They are usually denser than the normal pillow tops.

The need to sleep at inconvenient times of the day, get sleepy often or suddenly during the day, need to take naps often, get too sleepy too early in the night, have poor quality of sleep.

An auditory phenomenon that presents as a loud noise, often described as an explosion or gunshot, followed soon after by aggressive tinnitus.

These are long and smooth fibers that can be measured up to 1 3/8 inches. They are usually very soft and long-lasting, and can be found in mattresses.

a term used to describe a behavior in which a person takes very short naps (around 5-10 minutes) at very short intervals (every few hours). This type of napping is thought to provide some benefits, including improved cognitive function and increased alertness. However, there are also some risks associated with extreme napping, including sleep inertia and decreased productivity.

This is a rectangular mattress that measure 140 or 120 inches by 80 inches. It is way wider than most mattresses because of its design to take up different people and pets.

This is the largest mattress size. It is the longer type of the family mattress, with a measurement of 144 inches by 84 inches.

Neurodegenerative disease that confers gradual loss of the brain's ability to sustain sleep. Eventually, the person falls into a deep, sleepless coma and eventually dies.

This is a material that covers the inside of the mattress. It is usually made of sand, wood pulp or fireglass to give it a stretchy and fire-resistant function so that the mattress is protected from fire accidents. A fire sock can be added if the mattress is not fire-resistant.

Firmness measures how hard or soft, or thick or flimsy a mattress feels. The manufacturer can indicate the firmness with grades, numbers or in other ways.

This is a type of material that can be used to cover mattresses or as a bedding accessory. It is brushed and woven in a different way from normal yarn fibers and is known for its softness.

This is a condition where a baby gets a flat spot at the back of their head, as the name implies, because they are resting on one part of the mattress for a long time. Some baby mattresses are designed to prevent this.

This is associated with flippable or reversible beds. They have the ability to switch between two sleep surfaces on either side. The two side can also few based on their firmness and comfort. But ask the seller since most mattresses have just one sleep surface.

This is measure based on the pounds per cubic foot to determine the weight in connection to volume. It determines the mattress firmness and durability.

The front part of the brain. It controls thought processes, sensory perception, and voluntary movement. Damage to the forebrain can cause a person to lose consciousness, have seizures, or experience changes in mood or personality.

This is also called a base, and it is a support system under the mattress consisting of wooden slats and a frame.

Any sleep pattern that runs according to natural circadian rhythm and intrinsic period. This type of pattern might be the result of an individual who naturally(independently) resists going to bed later than 11 p.m. or waking up too late in the mornings, or someone who decides on their own that they will try for a few days what scientists call lifestyle interventions such as avoiding alarm clocks, caffeine intake after 8pm, light during nighttime, etc.

This is Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid, which can be found in OTC sleep aids. It is used to calm the brain activity, thereby leading to sleep.

Neural oscillations in the 40 Hz frequency range. They are the fastest type of brainwave, and are associated with cognitive processing, including perception, learning, memory, and attention.

Neurons that are found in the posterior part of the retina. These function as the link between mynosensory and visual systems, and transmit sensory information from photoreceptor cells to control body movements.

This is a memory foam with different gels or beads in them. They can differ in sizes, but the point is to enhance the temperature regulatory capabilities of the mattress.

This is a type of memory foam that has gel in it, making it feel cooler. Having gel-infused memory foam is helpful when sleeping during hot days.

This is a plant that can be used for different herbal remedies, including treating sleep issues. It also treats anxiety and depression which can lead to insomnia.

This is an organic certification sign given to organic latex that meets the standards. The standards are based on the environmental and social practices engaged in when getting the latex.

This is similar to the Global Organic Latex Standard, but it is for all organic textiles like wool and cotton. The textile has to be verified by a third-party and meet certain conditions for environment and social standards.

Neurotransmitter that plays an important role in learning and memory. It is also involved in other functions such as perception of pain, sleep, and appetite.

A form of stored carbohydrate that can be broken down for energy if needed.

If your mattress has the Greenguard label, it means that it has gone through a review and routine testing that proves it has low emissions. The certification is stricter than others.

A peptide hormone that stimulates growth, cell reproduction and regeneration in humans and other animals.

A perceptual abnormality such as seeing colours or smells that are not really there. Hallucinations caused by intoxication (including alcohol and hallucinogens) can range from simple colorful shapes to profoundly disturbing implications, including sensing objects which cannot be seen by those around the person who is hallucinating (commonly referred to as "apparitions") and often frightening demonic figures, but they typically wear off after a high period of time.

This is an amino acid that you can find in an OTC sleep aid. It is used to create the neurotransmitter serotonin in your body.

A state of inactivity and lowered metabolism. Animals that hibernate enter a state of torpor, which is a deep sleep that reduces their need for energy.

An organic molecule that serves as a neurotransmitter, to stimulate cell function. Histamine is the most significant contributor to allergies and asthma.

The tendency of biological systems to maintain a stable internal environment. It is an attribute of living organisms that preserves the internal balance necessary for survival in changing external environments.

The physiological need for sleep that builds up during wakefulness and is dissipated during sleep. It's what makes us feel sleepy after a long day of being awake, and it's governed by a variety of factors including the amount of time we've been awake, how active we've been, how much food and drink we've consumed, and our body's overall level of fatigue.

A small molecule secreted by an endocrine gland that stimulates or modulates the function of nearby cells, and has effects on distant cells

This is a type of mattress with a massive comfort system made with foam or latex, and a coil support core. It is a mix between innerspring and all-foam mattresses, which means you can enjoy benefits from both sides.

A condition in which a person sleeps more than the typical healthy person. It is typically brought on by stress, depression, chronic fatigue syndrome, sleep apnea and other diseases.

This is a condition in which a person sleeps during the day or sleeps excessively.

A transitional state of consciousness that generally occurs as people are falling asleep. It can involve hallucinations, such as seeing shapes or lights, or just a feeling of pervasive heaviness. People might also feel like they're floating or sinking.

A sudden, involuntary muscle spasm that occurs when you're dozing off or just before falling asleep. It's also sometimes called a hypnagogic jerk.

An adjective meaning "capable of inducing sleep." The word is derived from the Greek words hypnos (sleep) and genesis (creation). So, basically, it means something that induces or causes sleep.

A graphical representation of the physiologic activity during sleep. Hyperarousal due to external stimuli, movement disorders or medical conditions can be detected in it.

The process of teaching through sleep.The idea is that when we are sleeping, our brains are still active and can be taught new information.

Fear of being hypnotized. It's considered an irrational fear because hypnosis is a completely safe and harmless procedure. People with hypnophobia may avoid doctors or dentists who use hypnosis as part of their treatment, or they may panic at the mere suggestion of hypnosis.

Experience is when you wake briefly from sleep into a state that is very much like being in between fully awake and dreaming. They often occur in the transition periods of NREM and REM sleep (usually during stage three of NREM and stage One REM sleep), and can last for a few seconds or minutes, with some lasting up to an hour.

This is a state of mind that is similar to unconsciousness or sleep but isn’t.

A state of mind in which a person is more open to suggestion. It can be used to help with weight loss, stop smoking, and manage pain. during a trance state, people are more suggestible and can be more easily influenced by the hypnotist.

This is a person trained and licensed to carry out hypnotherapy. They can be found in the clinical setting.

This is a feature that a material can have. Hypoallergenic materials have a less chance to cause allergic reactions to those with allergies and sensitive skin. They can be found in mattresses too to prevent mildew, mites, mold and allergens.

A hypothalamic peptide that is important for wakefulness. It is also known as orexin-A.

This is an hormone in the brain that promotes wakefulness and controls REM sleep.

A small, but essential, part of your brain. It's responsible for things like hunger, thirst, body temperature and stress control. It also helps to regulate the functions of your other organs.

An adjective that means "having no known cause" or "of unknown cause".

A sleep disorder characterized by difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep, despite adequate opportunity and time for sleep, for at least one month. It is the most common type of chronic insomnia.

The front-line of defense against many types of attack, including viral, bacterial, and fungal infections.

This is used to calculate how much force is required to compress latex or foam by twenty-five percent. The higher it is, the firmer the mattress. It is also called indentation deflection force.

A verb that means to slow a metabolic process by acting on an enzyme.

This type of mattress is made up of a fabric cover, coil at the core and very little or no cushioning. The demand for innerspring mattresses has dropped, which means not many companies produce it.

This is a difficulty in which a person has trouble falling asleep or staying asleep until it’s time to wake up. It can be acute or chronic, which means short- or long-term.

This layer is in between the support core and comfort system of any innerspring mattress. It enhances the feel of the mattress and also stops the sleep surface from dropping into the springs after the mattress has been used constantly.

A debilitating circadian rhythm disorder in which the individual's sleep patterns are irregular, disturbed, or delayed by 2-4 hours each day. Most often this disorder is caused by an underlying medical condition, including sleep apnea or narcolepsy.

This is a temporary type of Circadian Rhythm Sleep Wake Disorder caused when the person travels through different time zones in a short period. It can lead to insomnia.

Important brain waves. They are thought to originate in the frontal cortex, which is the brain region seen as the most involved with information processing and decision making.

A chronic and rare syndrome characterized by the presence of abnormal dreamlike states known as "hypnagogic hallucinations", which lead to irregular sleeping patterns. The hallucinations, initially experienced for hours at a time, begin about an hour after sleep, last until the next waking episode, and can recur nightly or sporadically during prolonged periods of unconsciousness.

This is an amino acid that can be sold as an OTC sleep acid. It can also be found in some kinds of teas and mushrooms, but not produced by the human body.

This is a group of flowers that can be used to make oil, under the mint family. Lavender oil can be used in aromatherapy techniques to promote sleep.

This is a plant in the mint family that is useful for different remedies, including lulling people to sleep.

A state of being in which the brain slows down by about 50 percent. It's a period where through sleeping, you can quickly "catch up" on your sleep debt and prepare for a full night of restful sleep.

Refers to the daily pattern of 24 hours, where there is time spent in both the darkness (or lit) and daylight (or unlit). It involves alternating periods of not seeing any light for certain periods, with exposure to sufficient lighting.

Group of brain structures that controls mood, sleep patterns and appetite as well as memories and emotions. It is situated beneath the cortex and above the brainstem and interacts with both conscious and subconscious processes.

This is a type of fabric made from flax, characterized by its lightweight and durable design. It is more sustainable than polyester and cotton when considering production. It can be used to make mattress covers or beddings.

A component of the brainstem which synthesizes and releases norepinephrine. It is activated during periods of stress and arousal.

A model of human memory. The theory begins with the assumption that storing new information results in some reduction, impairment, or change to already stored representations within one's long term storage system.

Lucid dreams are characterized by the person being aware of the fact that they are dreaming, oftenbeing able to purposely control what happens within their dream.

This is a type of fabric made from rayon. It is used to create fibers which then form textiles, and these are used to make different kinds of mattress- and sleep-related accessories.

This is an alkaline earth material that can also be sold as an OTC sleep acid. It’s deficiency can lead to fatigue and drowsiness.

A measure of how long a person can remain awake without becoming sleepy. It is commonly used to assess the degree of drowsiness in people with sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea and narcolepsy. The MWT involves sitting in a quiet, darkened room and trying to remain awake for as long as possible. The test is scored by the time at which the person falls asleep or reports feeling very sleepy.

This is another name for the support layer in the mattress, and can contain air chambers, coils, latex or polyfoam. It makes the mattress sturdier and more supportive.

This is a material that you wrap around the mattress to protect it from wear and tear. The surface can be protected by normal bedding accessories although it can also be with an integrated fabric that covers all parts of the mattress.

This is a protective structure that covers all six sides of a mattress. It is used to protect it from contaminants.

This is another type of cover on the surface of all sides of the mattress, but this one prevents mold, mites, allergens and stains. They are usually designed as a fitted sheet that you can remove and wash, and are usually waterproof too.

This is an additional layer of cushion that you can find on a mattress for extra comfort. They can be up to four inches thick and are used to add to the pressure relief, height, firmness and contouring while reducing the impact of wear and tear on the mattress.

Like all other products, mattresses also come with warranty which determines how long the manufacturer would protect you from defects on the material. It can go as high as 25 years depending on the manufacturer.

Also called Purple Passionflower, this is a flowering vine that is used for its sedative properties in herbal remedies.

This is Major Depressive Disorder, and can be identified by a wide range of sleep disorders and other symptoms like a very low mood. It is serious mental illness with a higher risk of suicide.

A photopigment that is responsible for detecting light in the blue-green range. It is found in specialized cells in the retina called intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs), which are responsible for conveying information about ambient light levels to the brain.

A hormone our bodies release at nighttime to help regulate our body's sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin is made by the pineal gland which regulates circadian rhythm. Roughly, your melatonin levels are highest when it gets dark. The pineal gland may also produce serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine and otheramines that are important for regulation of moods though they are not primarily secreted by the pineal gland.

This is a hormone produced naturally in the pineal gland of a body. Its function is to regulate your sleep cycle. It can be sold in supplements to treat sleep disorders.

A cognitive bias that refers to the way individuals remember events. Memory bias can lead people to distort memories of past events, which can in turn lead to inaccurate judgments and decisions. For example, people may tend to remember positive events more vividly than negative ones, or they may be more likely to think that they performed better on a task than they actually did.

The process of transferring short-term memories into long-term memories. This occurs through a variety of mechanisms, including modifications to the synapses (the connections between neurons) that are responsible for encoding memories.

This is also known as viscoelastic foam, and functions as a high-density and close-conforming polyfoam which was first created by NASA. It gives a hugging sensation and is best for transition and comfort layers.

The series of biochemical reactions that allow cells to create energy and support the other cellular functions.

The set of chemical processes that occur in a living organism to maintain life. Enzymes catalyze these processes, and the products of metabolism are essential for the maintenance of cellular structure and function. Metabolism can be divided into two categories: catabolism, which is the breakdown of larger molecules into smaller ones, and anabolism, which is the synthesis of larger molecules from smaller ones. The energy released by catabolism drives anabolism, and both processes are necessary for the maintenance of life.

Metaturnal animals are those that are active both during the day and at night. This includes most of the larger mammals, such as elephants, horses, and deer. It also includes many of the predators, such as lions, tigers, and wolves.

An unplanned short interruption of sleep that often occurs in the first half of the night during slow delta light sleep. Evidence suggests its function is to allow animals (including humans) to respond to threats like predators or sudden hyperstimulation, and may even be evolutionarily adaptive for survival.

This is a thin layer of coils that doesn’t surpass 3 inches of thickness. It is usually used as a transition layer to enhance the support, temperature control, responsiveness and durability of the mattress.

A brief, unintended episode of sleep that can happen when you’re extremely tired. It can last for a fraction of a second or up to 30 seconds. You may not even realize you’re doing it.

This is a state of awareness of your present, usually used in metal health practices to encourage patients to accept their present.

This is another term to describe microcoils.

A type of sleep apnea that is caused by both obstructive and central apneas. Obstructive sleep apnea is caused by an obstruction of the airway, usually due to excess tissue in the throat such as tonsils and adenoids. Central sleep apnea is caused by a problem with the brain's ability to control breathing.

The practice of sleeping for one long block of time at night as opposed to polyphasic sleep which is the practice of taking multiple short naps throughout the day.

This is how best the mattress can prevent vibrations from one part of the bed meeting another. Like you feeling it when your sleep partner gets out of bed or moves around.

It is a test used to measure how long it takes a person to fall asleep. It is also known as the MSLT. The MSLT is often used to diagnose narcolepsy, a sleep disorder that causes people to fall asleep suddenly and without warning. People with narcolepsy often have a shortened sleep latency period, meaning they fall asleep faster than people without the disorder.

This is a test used to check for sleep disorders. It can check how long it takes for the patient to sleep and if they ever fall into REM sleep.

The paralysis of skeletal muscle that occurs during REM sleep. It's thought to be necessary for normal sleep and dreaming.

A measure of how well your body can relax muscles. If your body doesn't have good muscle tone, you'll be more prone to injury and pain because the muscles will remain tight, even if they need to release tension. It's important to work on keeping your muscle tone as healthy as possible by sleeping for an adequate amount of time.

These are the first, second and third stages of SWS when you begin falling sleep, then entering a light sleep and then entering a deep sleep, respectively.

These are coils that don’t surpass 1 inch of thickness.

A short sleep that occurs during the day. It usually lasts for about 20 minutes. A nap can be very beneficial, because it allows the body to rest and recharge for a short period of time. It's a great way to get some extra energy, and can help improve mood, cognitive function, and memory.

This is a sleep disorder identified by insomnia, cataplexy and hallucinations. It leads to tiredness during the day.

As the name implies, these are fibers gotten from natural sources. These include plants and animals, like cotton and wool which you usually find in mattresses. They can be used in the layers or part of the mattress cover.

This is latex made from natural sources. Latex is naturally gotten from rubber tree sap although 5% of it can include other agents used in the curing procedure.

Also called a neuron, is the primary type of cell in the nervous system. Nerve cells communicate with one another and with other cells in the body through electrical signals. These signals are transmitted down the axon of a nerve cell to its terminal ends, where they release chemicals that relay messages to other cells. This process allows nerve cells to send messages throughout the body, enabling us to think, feel, move, and breathe.

A group of interconnected neurons. The neurons in a neural network can communicate with each other by sending electrical signals.

A substance or group of substances that alters the nervous system's activity. They can be neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that relay messages between neurons, or hormones, which are chemicals that circulate in the blood and affect cells throughout the body. Some neuromodulators, like serotonin and dopamine, are both neurotransmitters and hormones.

Сell that transmitы electrical impulses through cytoplasm.

The theory that the whole organism falls asleep at once, all brain structures simultaneously enter an inactive or "sleep mode."

A chemical substance that facilitates the release of a molecule from one neuron (nerve cell) to another either across a synaptic cleft or, in cases such as norepinephrine, from one post-synaptic neuron right back to the same ('presynaptic') neuron.

Also known as sleep terror, is a parasomnia disorder that causes feelings of terror or extreme fear during sleep. It occurs in the stage of non-rapid eye movement sleep, usually within the first few hours after falling asleep. Most people who experience night terror do not remember it the next morning.

A dream that can cause a strong feeling of fear, terror, or anxiety. They usually occur during the second half of the night's sleep, when REM sleep is most intense. Nightmares are often remembered well after waking up.

A condition where a person has to get up frequently at night to urinate.

A term for any animal which is active at night and sleeps during the day.

A condition where the whole organism falls asleep, but the person remains aware of their surroundings. Most people do not remember having night terrors the next morning.

A sleep disorder characterized by the repeated or constant production of deep, hoarse noises during sleep. The sounds can occur sporadically or be continuous throughout the night.

A sudden, involuntary jerk or spasm of the body that usually happens during sleep. Some people may experience a slight muscle tremor or twitch, while others may feel like their whole body is jerking. The cause of nocturnal myoclonus is not yet known, but it is thought to be related to problems with the central nervous system.

A neurological disorder characterized by an inability to synchronize sleep time — typically measured in 24 hour intervals — with the day and night cycle of activity. The condition can result in some individuals experiencing days that last about twice as long, while others might have nights that don't seem to end.

Also known as NREM sleep, is one of the four stages of sleep. It's a deep, restful type of sleep that makes up about 75% of our total sleep time. During non-REM sleep, the brain is relatively inactive and mostly in a state of deep relaxation.

A hormone that acts as a neurotransmitter. It is our stress hormone, and secreted by our adrenal gland when we perceive any type of danger or psychological stress.

This is a hormone that decreases when you sleep and increases when you’re awake and stressed. It plays a part in body mobilization.

A condition that's similar to insomnia and involves an individual sleeping for long periods of time.

This is a type of sleep apnea in which a person stops and resumes breathing consistently while sleeping or resting.

This is a certification that shows that the textile on your mattress was tested for harmful substances.

This is a process that newly manufactured mattresses go through, which involves releasing the chemical odors. Off-gassing in memory foams and polyfoam have more noticeable odors than mattresses with other materials.

These are coils added to mattresses to enhance contouring. They are shaped like hourglasses with squared-off sides and an hinging effect.

This is a service that usually comes with the White Glove Delivery, where they can remove your old mattress and get rid of it for you.

A theory that suggests that the process of natural selection happens not just through the variation of genes, but also through the variation of dreams. The theory suggests that dreaming allows for new ideas and information to be shared between individuals, which can then be used to influence the direction of evolution. It also suggests that certain dreams may be more beneficial than others, and that those dreams may be more likely to be passed on to future generations.

A neuropeptide that regulates arousal, wakefulness, and appetite. It's made up of two peptides, orexin-A and orexin-B. Orexin-A is more important for regulating arousal and wakefulness, while orexin-B is more important for regulating appetite.

This type of latex is those that meet particular standards for sourcing and processing. The organic certification for latex is the GOLS or the Global Organic Latex Standard.

A sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep, frequent awakenings, and early morning awakenings, despite having adequate opportunity for sleep.

A form of behavioral sleep medicine that uses cognitive and behavioral interventions to treat insomnia. It is considered a paradoxical treatment, as it involves activities that are typically avoided in order to improve sleep, such as keeping a light on, reading or watching television in bed.

This is a condition where someone that is unconscious or asleep would do things they usually do when they’re awake. These include driving, chores and even sex. When the condition is severe, it is dangerous for them and those around them.

A brain region that helps coordinate our movements and form a sense of where our body parts are.

This is a standard kind of weave with an average weight. The thread count usually starts around 200, and it is crisp and easy to wash. It can be used to make beddings and mattress accessories.

Also known as nocturnal myoclonus, is a sleep-related movement disorder that affects the legs and/or arms. The most recognized symptom of PLMD is repetitive movements such as kicking, shuffling, jerking or twitching in the limbs during rest.

The phenomenon where the timing of an organism's sleep/wake cycle is shifted earlier in time.

An individual's sleep phase is delayed if they are going to bed later and waking up later.

This is a type of a comfort layer used to make your mattress feel plushy. It is sown to the top of the mattress, and is usually made of foam or fiber.

This is a type of cotton gotten from the Gossypium Barbadense species of cotton, and it is usually an extra-long staple cotton.

A small endocrine gland in the brain. It produces the hormone melatonin, which helps regulate sleep.

This is a type of bed frame that is built with a slatted or solid base. These beds have a simple design and little to no aesthetics, so they are more affordable and popular.

This is the number of threads that make up a textile. A manufacturer can twist a particular number of threads together, whether single ply or multi-ply.

With this type, each coil is wrapped in fabric sheets and can move individually. This reduces motion transfer and increases contouring when you use the mattress. It is usually found in hybrid mattresses.

This is how best the mattress can compress at one part without other parts getting affected by it. Memory foam has better point elasticity while materials with lower elasticity include latex.

This is a flame retardant. It is used on different customer products like mattresses.

The idea is to sleep multiple times per day instead of only once.

A diagnostic sleep study that is used to diagnose and monitor sleep disorders. It involves the simultaneous recording of physiologic signals (i.e. brain waves, heart rate, breathing rate, eye movements) during sleep. This information can be used to help determine the cause of a person's sleep problems.

Popularly called polyfoam, this is a type of foam used to make mattresses. They come with different feelings and can be used in different layers of the mattress.

A part of the brainstem that is responsible for regulating aspects of sleep, including REM sleep. Damage to the pons can not only result in disrupted sleep patterns, but can also lead to other neurological problems such as seizures.

A daily decrease in alertness between 1 and 3 pm. It can be marked by difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, languor or lethargy, slow psychomotor activity (including speech), slowed or disordered thinking processes with illogical connections between thoughts, etc.

The part of the brain above and around the eyes. It's involved with emotional regulation, decision-making, and memory formation. The prefrontal cortex can't work very well when we don't get enough sleep because it needs time to "rest and restore".

This is how much a mattress can reduce force and tension when you lay on it. Those with good pressure relief take care of your shoulders and hips, improving spinal alignment and redistributing your weight.

A sleep disorder that is characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and extended periods of unrefreshing sleep, lasts for months and even years. Individuals with this condition often report feeling tired and drowsy all day long, even after getting a full night's sleep. They may also have difficulty staying awake during conversation, working, or driving.

Sleeplessness that is not attributable to any other medical condition. It's the most common form of insomnia, accounting for about 90% of all cases. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, anxiety, depression, medications, and unhealthy sleep habits.

This is a type of sleeplessness, but this isn’t caused by serious factors like depression or chronic pain.

A type of protein that can fold in multiple, structurally distinct ways. Prion proteins are unique in that they can self-propagate, meaning that once one molecule of the protein folds into the prion shape, it can go on to convert other copies of the protein to the same shape. This ability to self-propagate is what makes prions so dangerous, as they can cause entire populations of proteins to adopt the prion structure, leading to serious neurological damage.

Progressive dreams consist of a series of vivid, memorable and connected dreams. As we sleep, our brains move from one dream stage to the next in a universal sequential order.

A molecule composed of amino acids. The body uses protein to build and repair tissues, make enzymes, hormones, and other important molecules, and to provide energy.

The inability to fall asleep because of hyperarousal, such as from worry, stress, or excitement.

This layer is made of fibers or foam and is usually stitched to the cover of the mattress to improve the pressure relief. It also makes a mattress more breathable and better at regulating temperature.

This program is used to certify that a product was manufactured based on economic, social and environmentally sustainable practices. It is usually used to certify organic latex.

This is a fiber gotten from plants or a fabric derived from viscose.

The term used to describe the increased amount of sleep that people tend to need after a bout of sleep deprivation. Most people need about one extra hour of sleep for every 24 hours of lost sleep.

A medical condition characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and episodes of drowsy "sleep attacks" that recur on a regular basis.

A neurological disorder that is characterised by recurrent isolated episodes of inability to move or speak during sleep, associated with full awareness and preserved muscle power.

Dreams that occur again and again. They can be very puzzling and often cause a great deal of anxiety, as the dreamer may feel like they are stuck in a nightmare cycle.

This means Rapid-Eye Movement Sleep, and it is a stage in the sleep cycle where we dream mostly.

Parasomnia disorder that is marked by abnormal behavior during the rapid eye movement (REM) stage of sleep. This stage is usually associated with dreaming, and people with RBD may act out their dreams by kicking, punching, or running around.

This is when a mattress goes back to its original shape when a weight is removed. This makes them responsive and durable. Coils are best for responsiveness in a mattress.

A neurological disorder that affects the part of the brain that controls movement. The brain sends signals through nerves in your spinal cord, telling your legs to stop moving. The leg muscles then contract involuntarily, causing you to feel an overwhelming urge to move them.

A part of the brain that helps to control arousal and wakefulness. The RAS is located in the brainstem, just above the spinal cord. It receives input from all of the senses, as well as from other parts of the brain. This information is then sent to the hypothalamus, which controls things like body temperature, hunger, and thirst. The hypothalamus also sends messages to the RAS telling it when to wake up or be alert.

A process that helps the brain clear out irrelevant information learned during the day and make space for new memories overnight.

This is when sleeplessness is caused by another condition like mental illnesses.

A drug that induces sleep, reduces anxiety, or relaxes muscles.

The SMRT model proposes that sleep serves to restore the balance between positive and negative moods, allowing people to better cope with stressors encountered during the day.

This is an essential neurotransmitter which is useful for regulating the sleep cycle among other functions.

This is a measure of how good a mattress is during intimate activities. It depends on the bounce, the contouring and the edge support.

A sleep disorder characterized by abnormal sexual behaviors while asleep. These behaviors can include touching or groping others, as well as intercourse.

Shift work is a type of work schedule that requires employees to rotate through different time periods during the day, or to work outside of the traditional hours during which people are typically awake.

This is another type of a Circadian Rhythm Sleep-Wake Disorder, also called Shift Work Sleep Disorder. It happens when your standard sleep cycle is disrupted because of changes in your daily schedule.

A nap taken in the early afternoon. There are many studies that suggest that this midday break improves sleep at night, reduces stress levels and blood pressure, and increases productivity for these type of people who work long hours during the day.

High-frequency brain waves, higher in frequency than beta waves and often associated with the concept of dreaming.

This is another word for conforming, and it shows how best the mattress molds around your body.

This is how much a mattress dips in when it I’d pressed for a long time.

A naturally recurring state of mind and body, characterized by altered consciousness, reduced muscle activity, and decreased sensory input.

A sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or periods of shallow breathing during sleep. These pauses can last from seconds to minutes and can occur 5 to 30 times an hour. Each episode can reduce blood oxygen levels, which may lead to awakenings.

A measurement and categorization of how we experience different phases and stages of our sleep. It looks at the time taken to fall asleep, the amount of deep sleep we get, and how much REM or dreaming sleep we have.

Sleep cycles are the natural patterns your body goes through during sleep. There are two primary types of sleep cycles: rapid eye movement (REM) and non-rapid eye movement (NREM).

This cycle includes stages of REM and deep sleep, which alternate. Adults have 90 minutes for each cycle and up to five cycles per night. In one cycle, there is slow wave sleep, REM and waking up briefly.

The cumulative effect of not getting enough sleep; it accumulates over time. A concept that recognizes that a person's need for sleep grows with their time awake.

A condition that occurs when someone does not get enough sleep. This can be either from not having enough time to sleep, from interrupted sleep, or from not getting quality sleep.

This is when you’re not getting enough quality sleep, and can be associated with health issues like diabetes and stroke.

An abnormal pattern of sleep that can have a detrimental effect on the sleeper. Narcolepsy, for example, is a chronic neurological disorder in which sufferers experience excessive daytime sleepiness caused by abnormalities in REM-sleep regulation. Other disorders include insomnia, restless legs syndrome (RLS), and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

A hypothesis that proposes that there is a "gate" in the brain that, once opened, allows one to fall asleep.

This are sleep-related habits.

A breathing disorder that happens during sleep. In this disorder, a person's throat muscles will relax and narrow causing a breath gasping pause for 10-30 seconds while sleeping which may result in frequent nighttime arousals from sleep.

The feeling of grogginess and disorientation one may experience when they wake up.

A measurement that describes how long it takes for someone to fall asleep after they lie down for bedtime.

This is a measure of how long it takes for one to fall asleep.

The process of learning while you sleep. It's been around for a long time, but there's not a lot of evidence that it actually works.

Type of medication that is prescribed to help people fall asleep and stay asleep. It is used to treat insomnia, which is a condition that causes difficulty falling and staying asleep.

A medical specialty that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of disorders related to sleep. These disorders include insomnia, narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, and others.

The moment when a healthy individual falls asleep.

This is a condition in which a patient has trouble falling asleep in particular. They might not have trouble getting quality sleep once they fall asleep.

A phenomenon in which a person, either falling asleep or waking up, temporarily experiences an inability to move. It is usually accompanied by a sense of fear or panic.

The regular ebb and flow of your sleeping and wakefulness throughout a 24-hour period. Most people have a sleep pattern that repeats every day, with certain "highlights" or "peak" periods during which they sleep more than at other times.

The amount of time you spend sleeping. It's different for everyone, and can vary based on your sleep habits, age, and health. Adults generally need around 7-8 hours of sleep per night, but some people need more or less depending on their individual circumstances.

A type of cognitive behavioural therapy that is used to treat insomnia. The goal of sleep restriction therapy is to help people get more restful sleep by teaching them to limit the amount of time they spend in bed. People who undergo sleep restriction therapy are typically asked to go to bed only when they are tired and to get up after they have been asleep for a set number of hours. This approach helps people learn how to associate the bed with sleep and not with activities such as watching television or working on the computer.

Bursts of neural oscillations that happen during non-REM sleep, and they play an important role in the process of memory consolidation.

The changes in brain activity that occur as a person goes from being awake to falling asleep and from being asleep to waking up. Most people go through four sleep stages.

A disorder in which episodes of sudden and involuntary muscular activity occur during the first stage of sleep, or during daytime naps.

It's when you think you're awake when in fact you're deeply asleep.

A disorder characterized by sudden, brief episodes of intense fear during the transition to REM sleep.

The amount of time a person spends asleep. It can be measured either by the number of hours a person spends sleeping or by the number of sleep cycles a person completes.

This is the practice of recording hours of sleep with a notebook. It is an analog method with the purpose of making sleep a purposeful focus.

A term that refers to a variety of conditions that can interfere with normal breathing during sleep. These conditions can include episodes of shallow breathing (hypopnea) and pauses in breathing (apnea).

Difficulty staying asleep throughout the night. It can be caused by a number of factors, including stress, anxiety, or environmental noise.

Difficulty falling asleep at the beginning of the night. It's usually caused by anxiety, stress, and caffeine use.

A condition in which people eat while they are asleep. They may walk around in their sleep and make noise, and sometimes they even cook food. People with SRED often don't remember what they have done the next day.

Also known as sexsomnia, is a rare sleep disorder that causes people to engage in sexual acts while they are asleep.

A disorder that causes people to talk in their sleep. It can be benign and cause no harm, but in some cases it can be related to other disorders.

The natural rhythm that our bodies follow over the course of a day. This rhythm is dictated by our internal biological clock, or circadian rhythm, and it tells our bodies when to sleep and when to wake up.

The scientific term for the body's natural tendency to seek equilibrium or balance in its sleep and wake states. This tendency is driven by several factors, including hormones, neurotransmitters, and circadian rhythms.

Also known as somnambulism, is a parasomnia disorder in which people do not realize they are asleep and can perform behaviors such as dressing and eating even though they're asleep.

See "narcolepsy".

Also known as deep sleep, is a stage of NREM sleep characterized by the presence of slow oscillations in the brain wave activity. It is the deepest stage of sleep and is thought to be vital for the consolidation of new memories and for restoring physical and emotional health.

This is also called deep sleep or Non-REM sleep. It consists of stages N1, N2 and N3 previously explained in this glossary. During this time, the body temperature lowers a little and brain waves become slower.

A natural reflex that happens when the muscles in the throat relax while we sleep, allowing our airway to narrow. The narrowing of the airway causes airflow turbulence, which makes a noisy sound.

See "sleep-walking".

See "sleep-talking".

See "sleep disorder".

See "hypnophobia".

See "excessive daytime sleepiness".

This is a model used to explain chronic insomnia, and is generally accepted. There are three pillars of the model which include predisposing factors, precipitating triggers and perpetuating habits.

This shows the position of the spine compared to the way it’s supposed to be, and how it’s aligned to the rest of the body.

A long, thin bundle of nerve tissue that runs down the back. It's about 18-22 inches long in adults and contains bundles of nerve cells that carry messages between the brain and the rest of the body.

Sleep state in which adults naturally cycle from sleep to wakefulness and vice versa. It's characterized by a decrease in beta brain waves and an increase of alpha waves, with a corresponding slowing of neural activity along with eye movement stoppages.

A stage of sleep characterized by relatively low levels of brain activity, as measured by an electroencephalogram (EEG). It occupies 45-55% of total sleep in adults and is considered a transition stage between light sleep and deep sleep.

The third stage of the non-rapid eye movement sleep. With each successive stage, levels of nerve impulses decline until finally they disappear altogether, and we awaken. Brain activity slows back to what would be seen as "normal" waking level.

Slow-wave sleep is the division of sleep that occurs during a roughly 90 minute period early in the night. In this stage, both brain waves and muscle activity are at their lowest levels, while blood pressure decreases and body temperature rises.

A drug that temporarily increases mental or physical activity. Stimulants are often used to treat conditions like ADHD, narcolepsy, and obesity.

A type of cognitive-behavioral therapy that is used to treat chronic insomnia. The goal of the therapy is to help the person to associate the bed with sleep, and to reduce the amount of time spent in bed awake. The therapist will work with the person to create a list of rules for sleeping, such as avoiding napping and caffeine before bed, and going to bed at the same time each night. The therapist will also help the person to develop strategies for dealing with nighttime awakenings, such as getting out of bed and doing a quiet activity until they feel sleepy again.

This is a trademark you can find on beddings that are made with American-grown Pima cotton. It is a non-profit organization that gives out these licenses.

This is a measure of how well a mattress keeps up your body and ensures a neutral spinal position while you lay down. The main pillar of support of a mattress is the core, and contouring is also important.

This is used to compare the amount of force needed to compress the materials like foam or latex to a particular degree. A higher support factor means the mattress offers better support and top quality, although manufacturers don’t usually announce the value.

This is high-density foam made of firm polyfoam. It is usually found in the mattress core.

This is also called the mattress core or the base layer, this is the thickest part of the comfort system. The support layer is usually made up of polyfoam or innerspring coils, although air chambers and latex are found in fewer mattresses.

The part of the brain that controls our circadian rhythm. The SCN coordinates with special cells in our eyes to regulate all sorts of things, including when we sleep and wake up, how much energy we use during the day versus at night, whether it's time to release hormones like cortisol or insulin, and what parts of the brain are more active than others.

This is an organization consisting of retailers and manufacturers, including those in the mattresses market. They are focused on promoting sustainable practices and eco-friendliness.

A structure that permits a neuron to pass an electrical or chemical signal to another neuron. Synapses are essential for communication within the nervous system.

This is artificial latex, made from petrochemicals. Although they are more affordable, they also last less then natural latex.

This type of latex is made with the Talalay process, which leads to a soft and airier type. It is made with frothing the sap from the rubber tree, making it into a mold which would be vacuum-sealed and then baking it.

This is used as an OTC sleep acid. As the name implies, it is a juice made from tart cherries.

Also known as bruxism, is the clenching or grinding of teeth. It most often occurs during sleep and can cause jaw pain, headaches, and damage to the teeth. It can be treated with a mouthguard or other therapies.

This shows how good a mattress is with controlling temperature while you sleep through the different seasons. It depends on the heat retention properties and breathability of a mattress.

This is a well-known brand name of lyocell fabric. It is gotten from plant sources like eucalyptus. It is usually sourced and manufactured sustainably.

A sleep disorder that is found in patients with terminal illnesses. These patients have difficulty sleeping and experience significant levels of daytime fatigue.

This mattress measures 80 by 98 inches, and is a rectangular bed. It is oversized and way wider and longer then the California king mattress.

A part of the brain. It's located right in between the left and right hemisphere, below the cerebrum. It connects all sensory information from our body to our cerebrum for processing.

A type of brainwave that are associated with deep relaxation, creativity and intuition. They are also associated with the state of being in "the zone", which is often described as being completely absorbed in an activity.

This is a measure of how many threads per inch in a textile.

Also known as thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), is a peptide hormone that stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which are hormones that regulate metabolism.

This is a term used to describe the mattress cover, which determines the durability, comfort and breathability. It can be made from viscose, cotton that has been woven tightly or synthetic blends of fabric.

A short-term form of insomnia that usually lasts less than a week. It can be caused by stress, jet lag, caffeine withdrawal, or other factors.

This layer acts as a bridge between the comfort system and the support layer. They aren’t found in all mattress models, but they would improve the comfort of mattresses and also prevent sinking after long-term use.

This can also be called a sleep trial or at-home trial depending on where it is being purchased from. It allows you to try a mattress in your home and can include a compulsory break-in period. If you’re satisfied, you can then purchase it permanently.

An essential amino acid that the body needs to produce serotonin and melatonin, both of which regulate mood and sleep.

This bed has a measurement of 38 inches by 80 inches for the width and length respectively. It is longer than the normal twin bed size, and it can only take one sleeper. But, it provides more legroom.

a model that describes the process of how the brain regulates sleep and wakefulness. It is based on the observation that there are two processes that contribute to our overall level of alertness or sleepiness: a homeostatic process, which gradually builds up over time as we stay awake and pushes us towards sleep, and a circadian process, which cycles regularly and causes us to be more alert during certain times of the day.

A naturally occurring compound that is found in both plants and animals. In plants, tyramine is produced as a result of the breakdown of amino acids, and it can be found in various types of beans, nuts, and seeds. In animals, tyramine is synthesized from the essential amino acid phenylalanine.

Cycles that occur throughout the day, often lasting less than 90 minutes. These rhythms reflect the body's natural energy cycle and are strongest in young adults. There are many different ultradian rhythms, but some of the most common include the sleep-wake cycle, heart rate, and metabolic rate.

A state of sleep where one hemisphere of the brain is asleep while the other hemisphere remains awake.

A sleep disorder that is characterized by inspiratory airflow resistance during sleep. This airflow resistance leads to disturbed sleep, which in turn leads to fatigue and decreased quality of life.

This is the brand name of hydroxyzine, which is an antihistamine that can treat different problems with sleep. It is also used as anesthesia.

Value is a the balance between what the retailer or manufacturer is offering and the quality of the mattress. While the former includes the discounts, price and customer service, the latter features the comfort provided by the mattress.

A group of neurons in the hypothalamus. It plays an important role in sleep regulation, sexual arousal, and thermoregulation.

This is a popular commercial medicine usually used to enhance the quality of sleep whenever you have a cold or the flu.

A fiber used to make rayon fabrics. It is derived from plants in which cellulose is removed with a particular solution.

Abbreviated as VOCs, this is a byproduct of certain manufacturing processes, including those for mattresses. It would cause off-gassing and decrease the air quality of a room.

The period of time, usually about 2-3 hours before bedtime, during which someone should avoid exposure to blue light in order to maintain a good night's sleep.

A state of consciousness in which a person is aware of their surroundings and can think, feel, and interact with others. It's the opposite of sleep, during which a person's body is resting and their mind is inactive.

This is a service offered by mattress retailers in which they can remove your old mattress and dispose of it, set up a new one and dispose of the packaging. It can come at an extra cost.

This can also be called background noise but it is a series of different sound waves all on the same intensity. It is used to relax people and help then sleep.

This is another word used to describe pocketed coils. They can also be called Marshall coils.

This is the smallest mattress in terms of square and oversized models. It measures 84 inches on all sides, which gives it the same length as the California king. It’s one of the oversized mattresses that fits easier into a bedroom.

A reflex consisting of the simultaneous inhalation of air and the stretching of eardrums, followed by an exhalation of breath. It usually occurs in adults immediately before and after sleep, during tedious activities and as a result of its contagious quality.

A German word meaning "time-giver" or "synchronizer." It refers to the environmental cues that tell the body when it is daytime, so different people have different timezones for their circadian rhythms. Zeitgebers are external signals that control some aspect of our physiological timing. This includes light, temperature, exercise, social interactions and even emotional state.

This is a sedative commonly prescribed to treat insomnia and help people sleep.

This is a feature in mattresses that gives you different kinds of firmness on the sleep surface. The zoned support allows you to choose where you want cushioning and support to be on your mattress.