The Circadian Rhythm: Follow the Energy Beat!
What are circadian rhythms?
Circadian rhythms are the body's natural internal clock that regulate physical, mental, and behavioral changes that follow a 24-hour cycle.
Our bodies are governed by an internal clock known as the circadian rhythm. It regulates our timing for the day, such as when we wake up and feel ready for bed. The circadian rhythm is derived from the Latin phrase “circa dium” , which means about a day, and it influences just about every living thing.
The daily circadian cycle begins and ends with your eyes, specifically with what is known as "zeitgebers" or "time givers." These are light-sensitive cells that send signals to our suprachiasmatic nucleus or SCN, a tiny area in the brain responsible for regulating our sleep-wake cycle. The SCN plays a critical role in releasing hormones that can make us feel wide awake or groggy and tired. That’s why it’s super important to expose yourself to bright light in the morning and avoid blue light (mobiles, tablets, computers, etc) before bed.
Is a Circadian Rhythm the Same As a Biological Clock?
Your biological clock helps regulate bodily process timings, including circadian rhythms. While a circadian rhythm is an effect of a biological clock, not all biological clocks are circadian. For example, plants adjust to changing seasons using a biological clock with timing that is different from a 24-hour cycle.
Circadian Rhythm Infographic
Here is the classic circadian cycle for a 24H day. Having this in mind you can adjust your habits to perform at your best.
Remember, sleeping is the same as charging your phone at night, you never forget it. Same as you have to recharge your personal battery at night. Don’t take the quality of your sleep for granted, adjust your behaviour throughout the day to improve your energy quality. Understanding the Circadian rhythms combined with your current circumstances will allow you to optimize hormone regulation and bring greater awareness to your feelings/mood. Thanks for reading.
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