During which stage of sleep do vivid dreams typically occur?

Vivid dreams typically occur during REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep. This stage is characterized by rapid eye movements, increased brain activity, and is often associated with the most intense and memorable dreams. During REM sleep, brain activity resembles that of being awake, which contributes to the vividness and complexity of dreams experienced during this time. Physiologically, the body is also in a state of atonia, or temporary muscle paralysis, preventing individuals from acting out their dreams.

In contrast, NREM (Non-Rapid Eye Movement) sleep includes various stages—such as Stage 1 and Stage 4—where dreams may occur but are generally less vivid and less memorable than those in REM sleep. During Stage 1, which is light sleep, and Stage 4, which is deep sleep, the brain is not as active, leading to a different dream experience primarily characterized by fleeting thoughts or images rather than fully formed narratives. Thus, the distinctive features of REM sleep make it the stage where vivid dreaming is most prevalent.