When you dream, your body is paralyzed.

In the first 90 minutes of sleep, you go through deepening stages ranging from light sleep to deep sleep.

Then you enter a phase called REM sleep (REM is short for Rapid Eye Movement) During REM sleep, the rest of your body essentially becomes paralyzed. The release of certain neurotransmitters are shut down and your large muscles do not move.

Some people have abnormal REM sleep in which those neurotransmitters do not shut down, and they act out their dreams. Most of the dreams we vividly remember happen during REM, as our brain has higher activity during this phase.

A head of human hair is strong enough to support the weight of two elephants.

Dr. Frederic Leroy of L'Oréal research thinks really highly of hair. In his research he has found that a single strand of hair can hold about 100g (3oz) of weight. However, most people grow about 150,000 strands on their head. 

According to Dr. Leroy, if we harnessed the strength of those strands, we'd be able to support 12 tonnes, which is 2 elephant's worth! Pound per pound, the Dr. says, it's not as strong as steel, but it's more like aluminium or Kevlar. 

Read more about hair here.

A medieval castle is being built in Arkansas

How is this possible, you might ask? The Ozark Medieval Fortress is a project that attempts to build an accurate castle from the 1400s! Even more interesting is that construction is only allowed using techniques and tools from the time period.

This plan was inspired by the Guédelon Castle, a similar idea in France to recreate a castle from the Middle Ages. Unfortunately, the Ozark Medieval Fortress recently ceased construction due to a lack of funds. The attraction is currently seeking investors or buyers to help keep the project going. If you’d like to help the Ozark Medieval Fortress, click here. 

Canada has lower gravity than other parts of the world!

It was discovered in the 1960s that a northern region of Canada has a slightly lower level of gravity than the rest of the world. Roughly, it is 1/10 of an ounce per 150 pounds difference, so it's not huge, but enough for it to be noticed.

Scientists have been arguing since the discovery as to why it has happened. Some said that the underlying mantle rocks are slowly flowing downward. A new study, however, says that during an Ice Age, glaciers pressed down on the area’s crust and the weight of the ice slowly caused the mantle rocks to ooze sideways. Then the ice melted but the crust hasn't bounced back.

(Source)

Penn Jillette patented a hot tub jet to arouse women!

The famous magician came up with this unique hot tub idea after relaxing in one with Debbie Harry, lead singer of Blondie. After discussing a hot tub that is more pleasurable to women, Jillette started brainstorming. Years later, he filed an application to receive a patent on his newly-created “Jill-Jet”.

The patent states that a nozzle is placed strategically to allow maximum comfort, if you know what we mean… In case you’re curious, the “Jill-Jet” is not available on any hot tubs models. Jillette, however, had one specially made for the tub at his house and is frequently used with his women friends. Would you use this product or do you think it’s just ridiculous? Let us know in the comments!

(Source)