Understanding our internal clock
- Andrea Arogyaswamy
- Oct 2, 2024
- 2 min read
Humans have evolved to become intrinsically linked to the natural process of day and night and our body’s are triggered to get sleepy when the light fades in the evening and awaken when the light gets brighter at dawn. This is known as the Circadian Rhythm.
But what happens when we fall out of sync?
The circadian rhythm is our body’s internal clock, a natural 24-hour cycle that regulates sleep, wakefulness, and various bodily functions. This rhythm is influenced by external factors such as light and temperature, helping to synchronise our biological processes with the world around us. When we follow to this rhythm, our body operates efficiently, promoting good health, alertness, and well-being.
However, modern life often disrupts our natural circadian rhythm. Factors like irregular sleep schedules, shift work, excessive screen time before bed, or even crossing time zones (jet lag) can throw us out of sync. When this happens, the consequences are more than just feeling tired – it can affect our physical, mental, and emotional health.
Disrupting the circadian rhythm may lead to sleep disorders, such as insomnia or difficulty staying asleep. Lack of proper rest affects concentration, mood, and memory. Prolonged disturbances have been linked to more serious health issues, including weakened immunity, digestive problems, and even increased risks of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.
The key to maintaining a healthy circadian rhythm lies in consistency and routine.
Keeping regular sleep and wake times, limiting exposure to bright screens at night, and getting natural light during the day are all essential steps in keeping your body clock running smoothly.
For those struggling with circadian disruptions, therapeutic interventions such as hypnotherapy can be helpful in re-establishing balance, promoting better sleep patterns, and improving overall health.
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