How To Reset Your Circadian Rhythm

You may have heard recently the trend for resetting your circadian rhythm to improve overall wellbeing. But what is a circadian rhythm? How is it related to your sleep and wellbeing? What benefits does it have for the body? We answer all these questions below and explain how to reset your circadian rhythm.

What is the circadian rhythm?

The circadian rhythm is a set of biological processes occurring in the 24 hour cycle of the body. These are essential bodily processes which rely on daylight. Just like music, if you have a good rhythm, your overall wellbeing remains in check.

The most common circadian rhythm that you may have heard of, is that of the sleep wake cycle. And you may be surprised that there a few more as well, which are as follows:

Sleep wake cycle: The sleep wake cycle rhythm regulates sleep patterns in the body.

Body temperature: The body temperature rhythm is regulated by the hypothalamus. The body temperature cycle peaks in the late afternoon and evening, and drops in the early morning hours.

Gene expression: Gene expression rhythms control the expression of many genes in the body and helps to regulate many physiological activities.

Metabolic rhythms: Eating and fasting cycles are all regulated by the metabolic rhythms.

Hormone secretion: Controlled by the hypothalamus and pituitary glands, the hormone secretion rhythms regulate the release of various hormones in the body such as melatonin (important for sleep), cortisol (the stress hormone) and the growth hormone.

Why is your circadian rhythm important?

While all of the above gives you a thorough understanding of the term ‘circadian rhythm’ let’s understand why it is so important for our body:

Regulates sleep: The circadian rhythm is responsible for ensuring a good quality sleep, which enables your body to recover from daily stresses. According to the National Institute of Health, the homeostatic physiology of the sleep/wake cycle rhythm processes sleep control. It governs our alertness and drowsiness cycles by responding to variations in light in our environment.

Influences mental health: Research shows that circadian rhythm disruptions have been related to a variety of mood disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Hence, it is important to have a good rhythm for better mood regulation and overall mental health.

Supports immune function: The circadian rhythm governs immune system function, and changes in this rhythm have been related to an increased vulnerability to infections. Studies have found that if there is a lot of disruption to the circadian rhythm, the body may be pushed into a state of inflammation or an immunocompromised state, resulting in increased susceptibility to diseases.