Eli5: why does rocking a baby put them to sleep?

Question

I read some studies about synchronizing non-REM sleep, but it doesn’t make sense why. Is there an evolutionary purpose to this?

In: 4

Answer 1

Yes, there is an evolutionary purpose to synchronizing non-REM sleep. Non-REM sleep is thought to be important for memory consolidation and restoration of the brain and body. Synchronizing non-REM sleep may be beneficial for a variety of reasons, including increasing the efficiency of memory consolidation, improving alertness, and promoting social bonding. Additionally, synchronizing non-REM sleep may be important for survival in certain environments, such as during times of food scarcity or when predators are present.