Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 28, 2025
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Measuring Neural Mechanisms Underlying Sleep-Dependent Memory Consolidation During Naps in Early Childhood
Published on: October 2, 2019
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Progressive muscle relaxation increases slow-wave sleep during a daytime nap
Katharine C Simon1, Elizabeth A McDevitt2, Rocco Ragano3
1Department of Cognitive Science, University of California, Irvine, California, USA.
Journal of Sleep Research
|March 31, 2022
Summary
Progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) significantly increased slow-wave sleep (SWS) during naps by 125% compared to a control group. This suggests PMR is an effective strategy for enhancing nap quality and promoting brain recovery.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Sleep Science
- Psychology
Background:
- Chronic sleep restriction negatively impacts health and cognition.
- Sleep interventions aim to improve sleep quality and physiological restoration.
- Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) is known to enhance slow-wave sleep (SWS) during overnight sleep.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of PMR on SWS during naps.
- To compare PMR's impact on nap architecture against an active control.
- To assess PMR's influence on sleep-related anxiety and fatigue.
Main Methods:
- A between-subject design was employed with healthy young adults.
- Participants received PMR training or listened to Mozart music (control).
- Nap architecture, SWS, and state-dependent anxiety/fatigue were assessed before and after a 90-min nap opportunity.
Main Results:
- PMR group exhibited approximately 10 minutes more SWS (125% increase) compared to the control group.
- PMR was associated with reduced time in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep.
- PMR participants showed greater right-lateralized slow-wave and delta activity, indicative of a more rested brain profile.
Conclusions:
- PMR effectively boosts SWS during naps, enhancing restorative sleep.
- Nap-based PMR may be a feasible and accessible fatigue countermeasure.
- Pre-sleep anxiety levels can influence the effectiveness of PMR interventions on nap architecture.
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