H for Health
Sleep is an indispensable component of human life, significantly contributing to the restoration and maintenance of our physical and mental health. One principal factor that regulates sleep patterns is our circadian rhythm, often referred to as our internal biological clock. This article delves into the intricate relationship between sleep and the circadian rhythm, and their collective impact on health and well-being.
Understanding the Circadian Rhythm
Our circadian rhythm is a natural, innate mechanism governing the sleep-wake cycle across all living organisms, humans included.
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It operates on a 24-hour cycle, overseeing physiological and behavioral processes such as hormone production, metabolism, and sleep patterns. Predominantly controlled by the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), a diminutive region of the brain housed within the hypothalamus, the circadian rhythm plays an integral role in our daily lives.