Aug 15, 2025

The Science of Sleep Cycles: How to Wake Up Energised

Aanya Mehta

Understand Your Sleep Architecture

Your sleep is structured in cycles, each lasting about 90 minutes, and alternating between light, deep (N3), and REM phases. Waking during light sleep (N1 or N2) reduces grogginess and helps you feel alert.

Source: NIH/ unsplash

Why Sleep Cycle Timing Matters

Waking from deep sleep triggers sleep inertia, a groggy haze that can impair your mood, focus, and reaction time for up to 30 minutes.

Source: Sleep Foundation/ unsplash

Plan Sleep in 90 minute Blocks

Go to bed based on full cycles like 7.5 hours (5 cycles) or 9 hours (6 cycles) to align waking with lighter sleep stages.

Source: medical times/ unsplash

Track and Wake Smart

Sleep apps or wearable devices can detect your lightest sleep phase and gently wake you before deep sleep hits.

Source: sleep advice/ usnsplash

Synchronise with Your Circadian Rhythms

Exposing yourself to natural sunlight in the morning resets your internal clock, boosting cortisol and alertness, while dim evenings help prepare the body for restful sleep.

Source: easysleeptime/ unsplash

Stick to A Consistent Sleep-Wake Schedule

Maintaining regular bed and wake times, even on weekends, helps your body master sleep cycles, making mornings smoother.

Source: sleep uncovered/unsplash

Build A Sleep Friendly Bedroom

Create a cool, dark, quiet environment to support all sleep stages, blackout curtains, reduced screen light, and better bedding help elevate sleep quality.

Source: sleep uncovered/ unsplash

Wake Energised

By planning your sleep to align with cycles, syncing with natural light, and waking during lighter stages, you wake up refreshed, sharp, and ready to conquer the day.

Source: unsplash

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