Do We Blink When We Sleep?

No, we do not blink when we sleep. Blinking is an automatic, involuntary function that lubricates and protects our eyes. However, this process ceases when our eyes are closed during sleep.

Blinking is a vital reflex action, continuously moisturizing and cleaning the eye's surface. This automatic process, typically occurring 15 times per minute while awake, stops when we sleep because our eyes are closed. While the eyes might move during REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, this movement doesn't involve blinking. The lubrication and protection provided by blinking are thus not needed while the eyes are closed and protected within the eyelids.

• Why Blinking Stops During Sleep: The need for blinking diminishes when our eyelids are closed, safeguarding the eyes from the environment and eliminating the need for frequent lubrication.

• Eye Movement During Sleep: Even though our eyes are closed during sleep, movement can occur, particularly during REM sleep. However, this movement isn't the same as blinking, which requires the opening and closing of the eyelids.

• The Importance of Blinking While Awake: Regular blinking is crucial for maintaining eye health, preventing dryness, and clearing debris from the eye's surface.

Several sources confirm this: One article states that "Blinking stops when your eyes are closed, during sleep, although the eyes may move back and forth, especially during the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) stage of sleep." (Source: American Academy of Ophthalmology). Another source explicitly states that "Because our eyes are shut when we sleep (usually), so there's no need to blink." (Source: Reddit).

In Conclusion

While blinking is a crucial function for maintaining eye health while awake, it ceases when our eyes are closed during sleep. The eyes receive necessary lubrication and protection through other mechanisms during sleep, making continued blinking unnecessary.