You've heard the term circadian rhythm and have a vague idea what it means, but how exactly does it work, and why is it essential to your sleep?
How does Circadian Rhythm Work?
Your circadian rhythm controls your daily schedule for your sleep and wakefulness. It is your body's natural way of keeping a 24-hour sleep-wake schedule.
Your brain receives signals influenced by light and dark, body temperature, and hormones. Melatonin and cortisol are hormones that make you sleepy or alert, respectively. Your body releases more melatonin at night and more cortisol during the day, which affects your sleep schedule. Certain lifestyle choices, such as work, stress, anxiety, and physical activity, can also affect your circadian rhythms.
Age also plays a role in your circadian rhythm. Babies develop their circadian rhythm when they are a few months old, which is why their sleep patterns are so erratic in their early weeks of life. Teenagers experience a circadian rhythm shift because their melatonin hormone does not rise until 10 or 11 pm. Therefore, they are often not tired until later in the evening but still need the same amount of sleep as children. Adulthood is where your circadian rhythms decrease if you keep a consistent schedule.
How Do Circadian Rhythms Affect Your Health?
It is no secret that regular, uninterrupted sleep is good for your physical and mental well-being, so how does your circadian rhythm affect your health? Disruptions to your circadian rhythm can have long-term effects on your organs, metabolism, gastrointestinal system, and cardiovascular system. These interferences can also result in short-term problems such as memory issues, lack of energy, and digestive problems.
How Can you Reset Your Circadian Rhythm?
You can keep your circadian clock on schedule by sticking to a healthy, active lifestyle that promotes proper sleep. But if you experience a disruption in your cycle due to jet lag, stress, medications, or work, it is possible to reset your system with these tips:
Stick to a daily routine
Spend time in the sunlight outside
Get 20 minutes of exercise daily
Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol in the evenings
Shut down your screens well before bedtime
Create a comfortable environment for sleep with proper lighting and a supportive mattress.
You deserve a good night's sleep to rest and restore your body, so make your health a priority by having a quality custom mattress made.
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