Your Circadian Rhythm and What it Means

Your circadian rhythm is your internal body clock. Circadian rhythms are important in determining human sleeping patterns. Patterns of brain wave activity, hormone production, cell regeneration and other biological activities are linked to a 24-hour cycle. Circadian rhythm sleep disorders mean there are disruptions in your circadian rhythm.

Circadian rhythm disorders can be caused by many factors, including:

- Shift work
- Pregnancy
- Time zone changes
- Medications
- Changes in routine

Circadian rhythm disorders are usually treated with the person's lifestyle in mind. Therapy usually combines proper sleep hygiene techniques and external stimulus therapy such as bright light therapy or chronotherapy.