Circadian Rhythms – Setting your Biological Clock
We’ve all heard about ‘Circadian Rhythms’ but why are they important and what do they mean for your health? Well, simply put, Circadian Rhythms organise your body’s daily cycle from waking up in the morning till going to sleep at night. Mess this cycle up and you can end up with high blood pressure, diabetes, weight gain, and loads of other health problems.
Controlling the hormones cortisol and melatonin is what will sort out your Circadian Clock. Ideally, cortisol is at its highest in the morning and helps you feel alert and awake to tackle the new day. As it gets later, melatonin rises, setting the mood for relaxation, calm, and sleep. But what happens when these hormones misfire? Well, you could find yourself dragging your feet through the day, lacking energy at work but being revved and suffering from insomnia at night.
How to find perfect timing:
1. Nuke those electronics at night. Your body needs to start producing melatonin and winding down.
2. Struggling with insomnia? There are lots of natural remedies like Passion Flower Capsules and Chamomile Tea.
3. Experience the outdoors and get out in nature to re-wire your sleep-wake cycle. Did you know one weekend of camping can heal your circadian rhythms? Getting away from artificial light speeds up melatonin production!
4. Honour your body and get into a regular sleeping pattern. Remember there isn’t a one-size-fits all! Just as we all have unique bodies, you might have a different internal clock to your partner or family. It’s about finding what works for your lifestyle, and sticking to it, like clockwork.