Sleep could help erase bad memories, study finds: ‘Therapy for our emotions’

Sleep expert says this activity could help you get better rest at night

Dr. Wendy Troxel, a sleep therapist in Utah, discusses a study that found small bouts of light exercise in the evening can help promote more restful sleep.

A new study suggests that sleep could help to "erase" bad memories. (iStock)

"Recollecting painful or traumatic experiences can be deeply troubling," the researchers wrote. "Sleep may offer an opportunity to reduce such suffering." (iStock)

Many patients have reported improvements in mood and anxiety when sleep was improved, a sleep doctor said. (iStock)

"This study continues to show ways to treat these conditions without the use of medications, which oftentimes are fraught with adverse side effects," a sleep doctor said. (iStock)

The process of using TMR to suppress negative emotions and fortify positive memories could have a "tremendous impact" on people with depression or trauma, an expert said. (iStock)

"The role of REM sleep in modulating emotional memories shall be further investigated," the study authors wrote. (iStock)