Your Circadian Rhythm -Is It Keeping You Awake?
Your internal clock, or circadian rhythm, is closely connected to many forms of insomnia. Contrary to popular belief, circadian rhythm has more to do with the levels of light than the time of day. This internal clock is what tells us when to go to sleep, and when to wake up in thew morning.
It is this internal clock that is known as the circadian rhythm. Hormones secreted through out the day are governed by this internal clock, and so are body temperature and our level of mental alertness.
Our circadian rhythms are partially responsible for us having lots of energy during some parts of the day yet feeling sluggish and tired at other times of the day. Many people who have a sleep disorder related to their circadian rhythm tend to feel tired when they should be wide awake. People who work at night or keep odd hours are the most common sufferers of this type of sleep disorder.
Light, as in bright natural sun light, is one of the largest factors of regulating your circadian rhythm. Not getting enough light for extended periods of time can cause low energy and fatigue. Those in northern climates can readily see this towards the end of the winter.
Light therapy, using special types of light with specific wavelengths simulating natural light can be used to slowly reset the internal clock. The light therapy is easy and pleasant and requires 30-60 minutes of exposure in conjunction with a strict sleeping schedule. The light is usually delivered using specifically designed lights.
To be successful with the light therapy the most important aspect is to time the light exposure correctly.Proper timing will be based on not only your schedule but also the type of insomnia.
