What Is the Biorhythm of Our Sleep?
Biorhythms are a necessary part of the daily cycle of human health. Based on a combination of genetics and outside stimuli, they tell the brain the correct time for you to achieve sleep. These biorhythms are linked to the daily cycle as well as periods of time within the 24-hour cycle.
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Features
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A 2008 study conducted at the University of California, Irvine found that two proteins in the human body are responsible for maintaining biorhythms in our sleep. These proteins, known as CLOCK and SIRT1, control roughly 15 percent of our genes.
Function
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According to a 2004 article published by "Psychology Today," biorhythms are naturally influenced by the amount of light that impacts our eyes. The brain uses this light to signal the body to perform certain tasks, such as sleep.
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Time Frame
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Biorhythms are known as the circadian rhythm. According to a sleep expert from the University of Michigan, Dr. Roseanne Armitage, biorhythms operate in a 24-hour pattern, helping us achieve the correct amount of sleep.
Significance
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When the body fails to maintain proper biorhythms in our sleep patterns, a number of side effects can occur. Humans can become moody, lose concentration, develop stomach disorders and suffer from a compromised immune system.
Considerations
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Within the overall biorhythm of a full day, certain shorter cycles occur known as ultradian rhythms. One of the most common examples of this in sleep is the rapid eye movement--or REM--sleep cycle that allows humans to dream.
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Pedro Simões
