Essay from Karimova Navbaxar Mahmudjanovna

Young Central Asian woman with straight dark hair up in a bun. She's got a mall necklace and a sparkly green tee shirt.

REFORMS IN THE PRESCHOOL EDUCATION SYSTEM

Abstract:
This article examines the attention being paid to the education system, reforms currently underway in Uzbekistan’s preschool education, achievements reached through preschool services, and reforms in higher education aimed at accelerating intellectual development.

Keywords: Preschool education, social life, reform, foundation, education and upbringing, globalization, concept, professional competence, material‑technical base.

Today’s young generation, which will determine the future and prospects of our homeland, must be raised with dignity—this is tied to the continuous modernization of education and upbringing. Expanding access to preschool education, improving the quality of preschool services, ensuring favorable conditions for full participation in life, and integrating children into social life are among our most urgent tasks. In New Uzbekistan, comprehensive reforms are underway across all sectors. It is impossible not to emphasize the transformative changes in education—the foundation of society—driven first and foremost by preschool reforms, which play a critical role in preparing children for global realities and in shaping their entry into societal life.

Today, modern kindergartens that meet current standards are being built not only in major cities but also in remote rural areas. Over just five years, the number of preschools in our country has quadrupled. Until recently, preschool teachers—and in some districts even students—were sent to harvest cotton for four months. Thanks to recent reforms, those practices have been eliminated.

In the last five years, educators at preschools have received one‑and‑a‑half times salary increases; the number of educators honored with state awards and participants in national competitions has grown; paperwork has been significantly reduced; and bureaucratic red tape has declined—these changes have paved the way for remarkable improvements in preschool education.

Efforts have also been made to enhance the capacity of personnel in preschool institutions. Regular scientific‑practical seminars and training sessions have been held, introducing innovative ideas and technologies into educational processes and promoting the comprehensive professional development of educators.

Higher education reforms are also a major part of the current transformation in the education sector. In particular, the Concept for the Development of Higher Education in Uzbekistan until 2030 serves as a prelude to these reforms. The Concept aims to expand the enrollment capacity of universities, improve the quality of education, implement digital technologies and education platforms, and involve youth in scientific activities—all of which raise the education process to a new level of quality.

That said, even more important priorities remain before us, requiring our attention. These include further improving the preschool education system, expanding the network of preschool institutions, strengthening their material and technical base, ensuring qualified teaching personnel, and implementing modern educational programs and technologies to foster children’s intellectual, moral–aesthetic, and physical development. Our primary goal is to significantly elevate children’s readiness for school, because our future and destiny rest on the young children growing up in these institutions.

Our esteemed Leader’s words—“The future and prosperity of our country are tied to what kind of people our children grow up to be. Our main duty is to create the necessary conditions for youth to realize their potential”—carry great trust and responsibility for preschool educators. They call us all to patriotic service. Let us be mindful of the fate of our children, our nation’s future.

Conclusion:
Reforms in preschool education today are as relevant and impactful as reforms in any other sector. Expanding these reforms broadly is a necessity of the times. Every teacher should approach his or her work with responsibility, informed by the conclusions drawn from these national initiatives.

References:

  1. Resolution No. 802 of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan on approval of the State Standard for Preschool Education and Upbringing, December 22, 2020
  2. Qodirova F.R., Toshpo‘latova Sh.Q., Kayumova N.M., Agzamova M.N., Preschool Pedagogy, Tashkent: Tafakkur Publishing, 2019
  3. Strategic Development Program of New Uzbekistan for 2022–2026
  4. SH.M. Mirziyoyev, “We will build our great future together with our brave and noble people,” Tashkent, 2017
  5. president.uz
  6. www.gov.uz
  7. lex.uz

Karimova Navbaxar Mahmudjanovna
Born on March 25, 1984, in Gurlan district of Khorezm region, into a family of intellectuals.

From 1990 to 1998, she studied at School No. 1 in Gurlan district. From 1998 to 2001, she continued her education at Gymnasium No. 6 in Gurlan, graduating with excellent marks.

Between 2001 and 2003, she studied in the Nursing field at the Electro-Medical Technical School in the capital city, Tashkent, and successfully graduated with honors.

From 2020 to 2025, she completed her bachelor’s degree in the field of Preschool Education at Urgench State University.

Currently, she is working as an educator at Preschool Educational Institution No. 9, a multi-disciplinary specialized preschool institution under the National Agency for Social Protection under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, located in Gurlan district, Khorezm region.

She is fluent in both Russian and Turkish.

  • In 2023, she was awarded the badge of honor “Devoted Specialist of Her Profession”.
  • In 2024, she was awarded the badge of honor “Top Scientific Researcher of the Year”.
  • In 2025, she received the honorary badge “Excellence in Preschool and School Education”.

She is the author of the methodological guidebook “Inclusive Education in Preschool Institutions”.
Her published books include: “Towards My Goals”“For You, Dear Child”, and “Discoverer Children”.

She has published numerous articles in international newspapers and journals.

Her article “STEAM Technologies in Preschool Institutions” was published in Turkey in the book titled “Leading Women and Girls of Uzbekistan”.

Essay from Karimova Navbaxar Mahmudjanovna

Central Asian woman with straight dark hair dressed in a black graduation robe and hat with a red sash and tassel. She stands outside in front of a leafy tree on a concrete path.

APPLIQUÉ INSPIRES CREATIVITY

Annotation:
This article provides information on the preschool education system, enhancing the quality of education, decisions related to preschool education, and the development of creativity in preschool-aged children through the educational and upbringing process.

Keywords: Preschool education, creativity, appliqué, activity centers, developmental domains, sub-domains, state program, state standards.

Today, every citizen of our country witnesses the unprecedented changes taking place in the field of preschool education. The government has never before paid such systematic and complementary attention and provided such practical support to the preschool education system, which is considered the foundation of the entire educational system.

The meeting held on August 16, 2017, was a historic milestone in the preschool education system. On that day, the President of our country spoke about strengthening the national gene pool and outlined many directions for the development of early childhood education.

In particular, important tasks were set to fundamentally reform the structure of the preschool education system and ensure full enrollment of children in these institutions.

“When we speak about the vital issue of education and upbringing in our lives, we must repeatedly recall the wise words of our ancestor Abdulla Avloniy: ‘Education and upbringing are a matter of life and death for us’,” the President said. In any field, we cannot achieve progress or a prosperous life without nurturing modern, competent personnel. Training such individuals and forming a healthy national gene pool starts first and foremost with the preschool education system.¹

In line with the Presidential Decree of September 30, 2017, “On measures to fundamentally improve the management of the preschool education system,” and the decision “On the organization of the activities of the Ministry of Preschool Education of the Republic of Uzbekistan,” a new system was introduced.

To that end, a modern, continuous education system was implemented, ensuring comprehensive social development of the individual. The main goals were to create a perfect educational system that enables children to become well-rounded individuals and to increase its effectiveness.

A child is the light of life, a continuation of the lineage, and the dream of a healthy generation—a value that has been passed down by our ancestors for millennia and forms the essence of our families, our lives, and our aspirations.

Special attention has been given at the state policy level to the upbringing of a healthy generation in our country. The future of our homeland is directly linked to the scientific potential, talent, and independent thinking of today’s youth. All conditions have been created in Uzbekistan for children’s education and upbringing.

By decision No. 802 of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated December 22, 2020, the “State Standard for Preschool Education and Upbringing” was adopted. Section 4.8 of this standard outlines the state requirements for the development of children of early and preschool age, the state curriculum for preschool education institutions, and its effective implementation in the educational process.

Section 4.13 of the state requirements elaborates on the “Creative Development” domain and its sub-domains:

  • Artistic perception of the world
  • Artistic and creative abilities

This domain emphasizes the requirement that “the child should have the ability to creatively transform the surrounding reality.” Based on the state curriculum, activity centers have been introduced in preschools to organize the educational and upbringing process effectively:

  1. Language and speech center
  2. Construction, modeling, and mathematics center
  3. Art center
  4. Dramatic play and role-play center
  5. Science and nature center

Children’s creative abilities can be clearly observed during activities conducted within these centers. In particular, the role of the teacher is crucial in developing children’s creative potential and in creating the necessary conditions for their creativity.

The art center, in particular, offers opportunities to uplift the child’s mood and support their creative skills. Artistic talents like drawing or sculpting are not innate in every child, which may result in fewer children participating in this center. However, with proper equipment and regular instruction during morning and evening sessions, the center can be developed. Activities at the art center include appliqué, drawing, and clay work.

Appliqué is a technique for creating images by gluing or stitching colored paper, fabric, or other materials onto a base to form patterns, flowers, or pictures. This technique originated among nomadic peoples around 2,500 years ago. Through the summarization of educators’ experiences, the following benefits of appliqué have been identified:

  • Development of aesthetic perception and artistic taste
  • Development of artistic and graphic skills
  • Enhancement of imagination, creative thinking, and spatial awareness
  • Refinement of hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills
  • Acquisition of certain artistic creation techniques
  • Introduction to local and global artistic cultures
  • Identification of potential for future artistic professions

During these activities, children often create innovations, and sometimes offer original works in the form of drawings or constructions. Spatial imagination plays a vital role in the formation of creativity. Well-developed imagination is the foundation of creativity and contributes to the creation of new artistic images.

According to scientists, humans can distinguish around 1,300 different colors. This suggests that the world around us is rich with subtle hues and unique beauty. Activities in the art center not only introduce children to colors and their properties, how to combine them, and how to mix them to create new colors, but also strengthen their ability to differentiate colors.

Appliqué activities conducted in preschool institutions contribute to the development of sensory perception, aesthetic education, formation of labor skills, and the emergence of willpower and character traits in young children.

Appliqué stimulates imagination, encourages creativity, activates observation skills, and nurtures attention, imagination, and willpower. It also enhances hand skills and develops the ability to use scissors and glue. These modern teaching methods increase children’s engagement and interest. Through appliqué, children learn cutting techniques and create beautiful, creative works from paper, plants, and straw. Teaching non-traditional methods regularly within their chosen direction draws the children’s attention and inspires them to enjoy visual arts, appreciate beauty, and love the world around them.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, all the reforms being implemented in our country in the field of education and upbringing aim to provide preschool-aged children with quality education and upbringing, uncover their creative abilities, raise them as mature and well-rounded individuals, and prepare them effectively for school education.

In developing the preschool education system, efforts are being made to organize educational processes based on modern information and communication technologies, to conduct training seminars in cooperation with international organizations’ trainers to improve teachers’ qualifications, to develop children’s motivation and creativity, and to create educational materials inspired by international achievements in the field of education.

References:

  1. Presidential Decree of the Republic of Uzbekistan, PQ-3261, dated September 9, 2017, “On measures to radically improve the preschool education system”
  2. Presidential Decree of the Republic of Uzbekistan, PQ-3305, dated September 30, 2017, “On the organization of the Ministry of Preschool Education”
  3. Resolution No. 802 of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan, dated December 22, 2020, “On approval of the State Standard for Preschool Education and Upbringing”
  4. Rahimova N. E. “Carrying out Appliqué Work and Its Types.” Urgench, 2019
  5. Website: Kun.uz

Karimova Navbaxar Mahmudjanovna
Born on March 25, 1984, in Gurlan district of Khorezm region, into a family of intellectuals.

From 1990 to 1998, she studied at School No. 1 in Gurlan district. From 1998 to 2001, she continued her education at Gymnasium No. 6 in Gurlan, graduating with excellent marks.

Between 2001 and 2003, she studied in the Nursing field at the Electro-Medical Technical School in the capital city, Tashkent, and successfully graduated with honors.

From 2020 to 2025, she completed her bachelor’s degree in the field of Preschool Education at Urgench State University.

Currently, she is working as an educator at Preschool Educational Institution No. 9, a multi-disciplinary specialized preschool institution under the National Agency for Social Protection under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, located in Gurlan district, Khorezm region.

She is fluent in both Russian and Turkish.

  • In 2023, she was awarded the badge of honor “Devoted Specialist of Her Profession”.
  • In 2024, she was awarded the badge of honor “Top Scientific Researcher of the Year”.
  • In 2025, she received the honorary badge “Excellence in Preschool and School Education”.

She is the author of the methodological guidebook “Inclusive Education in Preschool Institutions”. Her published books include: “Towards My Goals”“For You, Dear Child”, and “Discoverer Children”. She has published numerous articles in international newspapers and journals. Her article “STEAM Technologies in Preschool Institutions” was published in Turkey in the book titled “Leading Women and Girls of Uzbekistan”.

Essay from Kumushbibi Kholikulova

Young Central Asian woman with long dark curly hair and a green top holding certificates.

“A Girl and Power!”

“The girl won’t earn a city by studying,” — this phrase has sadly become deeply rooted in our culture, and unfortunately, many parents still agree with it. But if a girl is given a chance, if she’s supported and trusted — she can make it happen.
Maybe if you give her a little trust, she’ll return it a thousandfold with results!

Yes, they say a girl doesn’t need to be strong — but she already is strong!
Because she feels, she endures, she dreams — and most importantly, she possesses an invincible strength no one can see.
Yet that power is often dimmed by just a few words:
“You’re a girl — know your place!”
“You’re a girl — even if others speak, you stay quiet!”
“A girl who steps out isn’t a good girl!”
And so on…

But why shouldn’t a girl dream?
Why should her life be limited to housework?
After all, girls have dreams in their hearts too…
They too have a journey, a fight, a power!

I’ve seen it.
I’ve seen how girls bury their dreams deep inside,
Only because of words like “She can’t do it,”
Only because no one believed in her.

But I know this:
If you show even a little trust in a girl,
She becomes a hundred times stronger.
If the road is open — she runs.
If there’s a hurdle — she jumps.
If she’s silent — she screams within.

She’s not just a pair of beautiful eyes.
She is power. She is will. She is life!

I’m not writing this article for no reason.
These words are not just for myself,
But for every girl who couldn’t show her strength.

How long will we stay silent?
How long will phrases like “You’re just a girl” kill our dreams?

In conclusion,
A girl doesn’t need to become strong — she’s already strong.
Her power isn’t just physical — it lives in her spirit, her dreams, and every step she takes.
But recognizing that strength, believing in it, and helping it rise to the highest peaks — that’s our responsibility.

Giving girls opportunities, supporting them, fighting beside them — this can change the world.

Every girl carries great dreams in her heart,
And to make those dreams come true, she only needs one thing: trust.
If we give her a chance, no obstacle will stand in her way.

So let’s believe in girls, acknowledge their strength, and create space for them —
Because doing so won’t just transform our society,
It will transform the world.

A girl who believes in her power and fulfills her potential
Doesn’t just uplift her own life —
She elevates future generations.
Because a girl — she is not only the future,
She is the very force that shapes life today.

Know this well:
A girl is power!
A girl is trust!
A girl is the future!

Kumushbibi Kholikulova was born on September 8, 2012, in Yakkabog‘ district, Kashkadarya region of Uzbekistan.
She studies at School No. 34. She has helped nearly 200 girls in their personal development.
She has taught English and Turkish to around 100 girls and helped them achieve results. She is the founder of the Kadirovna’s Blog channel and the founder of about 10 projects. She has been interviewed on television and radio and is the holder of many international certificates. She is the winner of 1st place in the district in the “Young Reader” competition. Her creative works have been published in many prestigious international journals and anthologies.

Essay from Eshtemirova Jasmina

Central Asian young woman with long dark hair, brown eyes, a white blouse, and a green and gold sash.

Life is very short. We face various obstacles throughout our lives. Our life consists of lows and highs. But trials make us stronger. They teach us how to live in life. In any situation, the important thing is not to give up and not to repeat the mistakes you made. The best way is to To see the good in situations and to be an example of our successes to those who have done wrong. Even if everyone abandons you in these trying times, your parents, the key to heaven, will be by your side and your encouragement will be there. My parents never fail to help me, both in our happy days and in our difficult times. My dad is a true hero and a great source of confidence for me. They always support me. Not only my father, but all fathers in the world are ready to sacrifice their lives for their children. For every girl, her father is the strongest person in the world. The greatest happiness for a father is to see his child grow up, and he is ready to do anything for this. He sacrifices his own health to see his son perform on big stages and achieve success. Dad is a selfless man who sacrificed his own health for us, giving up precious time for us.


One incident that touched me was when my brother was sick and my mother took him to the hospital with tears in her eyes. That’s when I realized how difficult it is to raise a child. I love my parents very much and my biggest dream is to be a worthy child for them. When asked what happiness is, I answer that it is happiness to have my parents and to be able to breathe. The real wealth is when your parents say, “I believe in you, daughter,” and that is a great strength. Our mothers are our angels on earth, and our fathers are our heroes. I would like to conclude my speech with one sentence. Behind the most successful people are strong people who support them. The strongest people behind me are my mother and father. I love them very much. And making their dreams come true is my biggest goal. If I stop moving and get tired, I remember what my dad said. You have to be a big man. Of course, I will make my father’s dreams come true.

Eshtemirova Jasmina was born in Yakkabag district of Kashgar region. Holder of international certificates. Knows and continues to learn English and Turkish. Holder of a national certificate in her native language.He has won honorable mentions in many competitions. He is a participant in the district stage of the Young Reader competition.”Ilhom tomchilari” “Soʼzlarimdan jahon eshtsin” “Koʻngil kalitlari ”  actively partipated in the publication of books with  articles and creative works Her dream is to win the Zulfiya Award and make her parents proud.

Essay from Sattorova Mohinur Lazizovna

Young Central Asian teen in a white blouse, black tie, and black skirt. She's in a room with chairs and a stage and flowers and balloons. A woman is next to her holding flowers.

The Joint-Stock Company Navoi Mining and Metallurgical Combine (NMMC) is one of the largest industrial enterprises in Uzbekistan, operating in the mining and metallurgical sectors. The efficient use of water resources at such large-scale industrial facilities is extremely important for both environmental sustainability and production efficiency.

In the developing world, including Uzbekistan, the rational use of water supply has become a pressing issue. As one of the largest industrial enterprises in Uzbekistan, NMMC must pay special attention to optimizing water use while maintaining environmental balance.

I believe it is reasonable to study successful strategies that have undoubtedly been implemented for conducting scientific research on this topic.

In particular, when examining the practical strategic projects of Vladimir Kvint—a prominent expert in the theory and methodology of strategy and the founder of the Russian school of strategy, Doctor of Economics, and academician—who has implemented water resource strategies in several countries including Uzbekistan, I consider the water resource management strategy of the Kuzbass region to be the best guideline in this field.

Considering the above, the following should be taken into account when managing water resources at NMMC:

  • Implementation of water recirculation systems and closed-loop water supply systems;
  • Collection of rainwater and installation of reuse systems for technical purposes;
  • Use of modern water-saving technologies and the application of new methods to reduce water consumption in ore enrichment and metal smelting processes;
  • Installation of automated monitoring systems to control water consumption in real-time;
  • Establishment of strict environmental control to prevent water pollution and industrial waste from entering water sources;
  • Analysis of water bodies surrounding the enterprise through regular laboratory studies;
  • Implementation of international environmental management standards and extensive use of global best practices in water resource management;
  • I believe that information exchange and initiatives in the field of water resources should be carried out in cooperation with the public.

In general, the implementation of such measures—including recycling systems aimed at the rational use of water in industrial activities, modernization of water supply systems, adoption of low-water-use technologies, and continuous monitoring through environmental systems—is one of the most urgent tasks today.

To conclude, water use in the operations of NMMC is one of the most important factors. Effective management of technological processes, cooling systems, and water resources for drinking and domestic needs ensures the sustainable and environmentally safe operation of the plant. In the future, it is crucial to widely introduce innovative approaches and water-saving technologies in this field.

References

  1. Kvint, V. L., Zadorozhnaya, G. V., Dudovtseva, Yu. V., Alekseev, G. F., & Alimuradov, M. K. Strategizing of Kuzbass region ecological development. Kemerovo: Kemerovo State University; 2021. 416 p. https://doi.org/10.21603/978-5-8353-2797-3
  2. Kvint, V. L. (2020). Theoretical foundations and methodology of strategizing Kuzbass as the most important industrial region of RussiaEconomics in Industry, (3), 290–299.
  3. Kvint, V. (2015). Strategy for the Global Market: Theory and practical applications. Routledge.
  4. Strategizing Water Resources of Kuzbass: Monograph / Edited by V. L. Kvint. – Kemerovo: Kemerovo State University, 2021. – 388 pages. – (“Kuzbass Strategy Library” series)

Essay from Sattorova Mokhinur

Central Asian teen in a long embroidered blue coat with silver designs and trim and a light blue dress and a headband in a room with Islamic style decorative architecture.

Teacher: Fazliddinova Zukhra Muxiddinovna

NDKTU akademik lyceum English language teacher

E-mail: zukhrafazliddinova@gmail.com

Student: Sattorova Mokhinur Laziz qizi

NDKTU akademik lyceum first year student

E-mail: muhinursatorova@gmail.com

                                                 ABSTRACT  

In this article, I will investigate the importance of language within the framework of an international language and the increasing number of people communicating in English worldwide. The reasons behind this growth are analyzed in depth. Additionally, the significance of English in communication is described.  

Key words: international language, experience and qualification, learning English, native language, specific and academic language.  

Nowadays, a large number of people speak English. The number of speakers has reached 1.5 billion. Additionally, approximately 500 million people are learning English as their native language. The figures indicate the widespread use and learning of English as an international language. Our young generation is excelling in oral proficiency in the language, attaining significant milestones and outstanding achievements. Language can be learned for two main purposes, namely specific and academic. Knowledge of a language offers individuals an abundance of opportunities. For example, traveling overseas without guidance.  Moreover, applying for a job can result in a 50% salary supplement, effective professional interaction, career advancement, and opportunities. Effective professional interaction-English for Specific Purposes (ESP)-enables professionals to communicate accurately and efficiently in their specific fields, such as medicine, engineering, and law.  Career development and opportunities: mastering ESP enhances job prospects, as many multinational companies require English proficiency. Furthermore, when some people are applying for a job, they must know English and obtain a language certificate. As industries become more interconnected, ESP helps professionals engage in international projects, conferences, and research collaborations. Scientists, for instance, publish research in English to reach a global audience, while engineers use ESP to discuss technical designs with multinational teams. This linguistic proficiency promotes knowledge exchange and innovation. English ranks third among the world’s languages.  

In today’s world, all humans learning the language can earn money and achieve profit. In fact, teenagers and older people are obtaining a high-level certificate while they conduct an English course, despite being in childhood. As for academic purposes, awareness of foreign languages allows for gaining certificates through which people can achieve qualifications. If a teenager enters a university, they meet admission requirements and may obtain a C1 level certificate. Other students want to gain knowledge; therefore, they apply to universities and schools abroad. If they obtain a B2 language certificate, they may be accepted to the universities to which they applied. When some people and students are increasing their experience and qualifications in school, university, and work, they might receive a supplement and scholarship. Nowadays, English belongs to the category of modern languages. When I was learning German, there were many programs associated with studying abroad, where people from all over the world studied German because they were engaging in various fields of science. In statistics, English for academic purposes plays a pivotal role in global communication, particularly within the realms of science, education, and research. A significant majority of scientific publications are authored in English; for instance, in 2022, 95.86% of the 28,142,849 references indexed on the Web of Science were in English. English for academic purposes is vital for global communication, as it enhances access to knowledge, promotes international collaboration, and supports career development, making it a key tool for students, researchers, and professionals worldwide.

In conclusion, ESP and EAP contribute significantly to the advancement of international communication, bridging academic spheres. As global connectivity continues to expand, the demand for specialized English language proficiency will remain essential for success in various disciplines.

REFERENCES

1.Jainkwellpublishing.com

2.Lc International language centres.

3.Wikipedia

4.https//ilcentres.com

Essay from Boyqobilova Nargiz Alimardonovna

Central Asian teen girl with a headband and brown eyes and white blouse and smile.

Project Work

The Biological Importance of Sleep and Its Connection with Stress

Introduction

Relevance of the Topic:

In modern life, due to changes in people’s lifestyles, increased speed, technological influences, and psychological pressure, serious problems with the quality and quantity of sleep have emerged. Lack of sleep leads to both physical and psychological changes in the body, particularly increasing stress levels. Sleep and stress are closely interconnected—one can be the cause or result of the other.

Purpose of the Project:

The main purpose of this project is to study the biological importance of sleep for the human body and to analyze the connection between sleep and stress. In addition, the project aims to examine the negative impact of chronic and continuous stress on health based on scientific articles and research findings.

Research Methods:

Books, scientific articles, statistical data, and practical experiments.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: The Biological Importance of Sleep

  1. What is Sleep?
  2. Types of Sleep: REM and NON-REM
  3. Health Benefits of Quality Sleep
  4. The Effect of Sleep on Memory

Chapter 2: Stress and Its Biological Foundations

  1. What is Stress?
  2. Effects of Stress on the Body
  3. Types of Stress
  4. Recommendations for Overcoming Stress

Chapter 3: The Interconnection Between Sleep and Stress

  1. How Stress Disrupts Sleep
  2. Scientific Research: For example, a 2018 study involving 549 participants
  3. How Sleep Deprivation Increases Stress Levels

Chapter 1: The Biological Importance of Sleep

Sleep is a vital physiological condition controlled by the central nervous system during which the body and brain rest and recover. It regularly occurs throughout a person’s life and is extremely important for maintaining good health. Sleep is an active physiological process—meaning the body doesn’t completely shut down but internal systems shift and regenerate.

During sleep, a person becomes less responsive to external stimuli and is not in a conscious state, yet not completely “switched off.” The brain processes information during sleep, strengthens memory, produces hormones, and repairs tissues.

Sleep reduces stress, enhances memory and learning, maintains heart function, boosts immunity, and restores the nervous system. One interesting fact about sleep is that a third of our lives—about 25 years—is spent sleeping. Sleep is linked to heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and insomnia. According to traffic authority statistics, fatigue and sleep deprivation are among the leading causes of road accidents. The record for the longest time without sleep is 18 days, 21 hours, and 40 minutes. The person who set the record reported hallucinations, paranoia, vision issues, speech problems, difficulty concentrating, and memory decline.

Inventors like Edison, Da Vinci, Franklin, Tesla, and Churchill reportedly slept less than the average but still felt healthy. There are several stages of sleep:

  • Stage 1: Transition from wakefulness to sleep. The person may deny they were sleeping if awakened.
  • Stage 2: After about 20 minutes, light sleep begins and makes up about half of total sleep time. If awakened, the person can easily fall back asleep. This may repeat several times during the day.
  • Stage 3: Deep sleep. The brain starts to rest, but not completely—it still monitors other organs.
  • Stage 4: REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep. The shortest stage, but when we dream.

How much sleep does a healthy person need?
Consistent lack of sleep negatively affects the immune system and reduces hormone production, which can disrupt the nervous system. Sleeping less than 5–5.5 hours for 3 consecutive nights can result in symptoms similar to total sleep deprivation.

Lack of sleep can cause dull eyes, brittle hair and skin. A person who passes through all 4 stages of sleep and wakes up refreshed has had truly restorative rest.

Sleep Stages:

  • NON-REM Sleep (3 stages): The body rests, heart rate slows.
  • REM Sleep: Dreaming occurs, the brain is highly active, while the body remains still.

Benefits of Quality Sleep:

  • Improves brain function
  • Supports cardiovascular health
  • Maintains hormonal balance
  • Reduces stress and stabilizes mental state

Chapter 2: Stress and Its Biological Foundations

Stress is a physiological and psychological response of the body to external or internal threats, pressure, fear, pain, or tension.

There are various scientific explanations for stress. One of the most popular is Hans Selye’s theory, which states that the body has mechanisms to maintain balance. Strong and prolonged external and internal stressors can disrupt this balance. In response, the body activates high-level defense and adaptation mechanisms. This adaptive reaction is known as stress.

Stress symptoms can be physiological, psychological, behavioral, or pathological, and are often accompanied by emotional tension.

Common signs of stress:

  • Physiological Signs:
    Increased heart and breathing rate, facial flushing or paleness, sweating, increased adrenaline levels.
  • Psychological Signs:
    Slower thinking, reduced concentration, memory loss.
  • Personal Signs:
    Weakened willpower, poor self-control, anxiety, fear, restlessness.
  • Pathological Signs:
    Increased neurosis, fainting, headaches, insomnia.

As N.X. Kirvin stated, “Stress is everywhere—it is the shadow of life. Some benefit from it and use it to reach success, while for others, it causes harm.”

Types of Stress:

  • Eustress: Positive stress, such as the pressure before an exam that boosts performance.
  • Distress: Negative stress, which harms health due to prolonged fear and anxiety.
  • Chronic Stress: Long-term stress that lowers immunity and causes depression and sleep disorders.

Ways to Reduce Stress:

  • Quality sleep (7–8 hours), regular exercise
  • Breathing exercises, meditation
  • Engaging in enjoyable activities

Sleep deprivation increases stress hormone levels in the body.

Conclusion:

The connection between sleep and stress is a complex system where both conditions directly influence each other. Developing stress management skills and reducing negative internal thoughts can help prevent sleep-related problems. This project has demonstrated that sleep is vital to human health and is closely linked to stress.   

My name is Boyqobilova Nargiz Alimardonovna. I was born on September 8, 2001, in Oqorbulok neighborhood, Oltinsoy district, Surxondaryo region. I am 25 years old. Currently, I am the beloved daughter of my parents and my parents-in-law, the cherished daughter-in-law of the family, and a loving wife to my husband. I am also the proud mother of two sweet daughters. I am a 3rd-year student at the Faculty of Natural Sciences, majoring in Biology at Termez State University.