Infant Rocking

People tend to fall asleep when gently rocked or vibrated. Experimental studies have shown that rocking promotes sleep in humans and mice. However, the mechanisms underlying the phenomenon are not well understood."

Source : Cell Reportsvol. 33, issue 9.

Several studies (example) have confirmed that widely-held concept that rocking can induce and enhance sleep in humans (and other mammals).

In order to test possible deep-rooted evolutionary links with other species, the 2020 study cited above used Drosophila (fruit flies) to test whether (gentle) rocking might promote sleep in insects.

Our data establish that as in humans and mice, gentle mechanosensory stimulation can promote sleep in Drosophila.

As with previous studies, the research wasn't able to pinpoint the exact mechanisms regarding how rocking can influence sleep.

Also see : Sleepplugin-autotooltip__plain plugin-autotooltip_bigSleep

"The purposes and mechanisms of sleep are only partially clear and are the subject of intense research"

Source Wikipedia"

Although extensive research in humans and animals has shown unequivocally that sleep is essential, the reasons why it's required are as yet unknown. Long term sleep deprivation not only severely impairs cognitive and motor skills, it's now been shown that it can cause physical damage to brain structure - and, in extreme cases, irreversible damage. and Sopite syndromeplugin-autotooltip__plain plugin-autotooltip_bigSopite syndrome

"The sopite syndrome is a poorly understood response to motion. Drowsiness and mood changes are the primary characteristics of the syndrome. The sopite syndrome can exist in isolation from more apparent symptoms such as nausea, can last long; after nausea has subsided, and can debilitate some individuals. It is most likely a distinct syndrome from “regular” motion sickness or common fatigue, and is of potential concern in a variety of situations. The syndrome may be particularl…