The present apparatus and method for using the same detects Rapid Eye Movement (REM) in a sleeping mammal and awakens the mammal after the cessation of a specific episode of REM. The system comprises an alarm setting unit for setting a predetermined wakeup time, a data collection unit for collecting physiological data from the mammal over time, a processing unit for determining the occurrence and cessation of REM and for providing a stimulation signal for awakening the mammal within a prescribed window of time before the predetermined wakeup time and after the cessation of REM and after the mammal's nadir in body temperature with respect to time.