Circadian rhythm

Circadian rhythm (internal clock)

What is this Circadian rhythm stuff….

WELL…Circadian rhythm is your body’s internal 24 hour clock. This clock responds to light and dark stimuli. The circadian rhythm is essentially your master clock that affects your physical, mental, and behavioral changes in your body. The master clock in the body controls the production of melatonin (hormone that makes you sleepy). Melatonin is released in accordance to the amount of light that enters the eyes.

Circadian rhythms can be “out of whack” due to people working night shift, people using screen devices before bed, use of stimulants (coffee, pills, or exercise) before bed, not enough sunlight first thing in the morning, time change, pregnancy, and medications.

Lack of sleep can cause a decrease in mental performance, increase the severity of diabetes hypertension, obesity, and memory loss, and speed up the aging process. Higher events of mental illness like depression and bipolar are more prominent. When you clock is off your eating patterns can be affected.

How to reset your circadian rhythm:

·         Do not use computers, TV, cellphones before bed

·         Use soft blue or red lights as night lights

·         Exercise daily

·         Enjoy outdoor activities

·         Avoid caffeine

·         Try to keep your sleep/wake schedule the same

·         Go to bed on an empty stomach

·         Fill your mind with positive thoughts so you don’t dwell on your problems

·         A relationship with God can refresh your spirit, and promote a Sabbath day of rest