Internal Clocks
Our bodies have many biological clocks they follow, referred to as circadian rhythms. Circadian Rhythms are our bodies' 24 hour cycle and the physical, mental, and behavioral changes that come along with differing times. We often think of our sleep/wake cycle in these terms, however most systems in our body operate with a circadian rhythm of it’s own. Hormones, body temperature, digestion, eating patterns, energy levels, and more all run on these clocks so attuning to them is vital to us feeling our best. This is influenced by many factors, one of which being daylight. This signals to brain what time it is to inform the different systems when to do their jobs. The requirements of our circadian rhythms change over time depending where we are developmentally--think babies sleeping more hours of the day than adults. Changes happen on a cellular level throughout the day to make sure everything is running smoothly. Our brains house what we could consider the master clock for the dozens of smaller internal clocks. Coupled with genetic factors, it receives input from our environment and then gives the orders to the other small clocks in our bodies. Modern life throws a lot of disruptions our way to these natural biological rhythms. Some of which include screen time (especially at night), shift work, traveling, what and how we eat, even substances or medications.
So how do you attune to your circadian rhythms? Well, for starters, a simple strategy is to lessen your electronic screen time at night. It disrupts the production of melatonin impacting your quality of sleep, making your master clock (brain) confused about what time it is. This time confusion ultimately impacts multiple circadian rhythms, leaving you feeling less than your best. Another tip is to try to view some daylight when you wake up (best to go outside for a moment as looking through a window doesn’t have the same effect), which lets your brain know it’s time to wake up, setting that rhythm in motion for the rest of the day. Eating a stable diet where you are eating enough throughout the day at appropriate intervals, with a balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates to keep blood sugar regulated keeps digestion clocks working appropriately. Finally, just listen to your body! We often override the signals it gives us, which negatively impacts these rhythms, ultimately leading to us not feeling well and complaining of different symptoms. Ignoring your bodies communications can also lead to diminishing self-awareness and self-trust. Paying attention and doing what your body asks for in a timely manner is empowering, giving you control over your health and wellbeing. So go to sleep when you are tired, put the phone down, eat nourishing food when you are hungry, and move when you are restless. We must learn the language of our body in order to feel at home and well in ourselves. Your body has inherent wisdom and when we listen to it, incredible things can happen.
Questions to ponder.
When do I ignore my bodies signals and what signals am I ignoring?
How can I learn the language of my body?
How can I use these signals as information about myself to better help me make decisions to encourage overall wellbeing?
