WHETHER YOU'RE LISTENING TO A PODCAST that's debating school start times or scrolling Instagram content from an expert urging the end of daylight saving time, the term 'circadian rhythm' is unlikely to be new to you. These examples show how some experts advocate for change that allows people to live in harmony with their natural sleep predispositions, or 'sleep chronotype' The sleep chronotype concept is based on how your body, influenced by your internal clock, has an innate preference for mornings or evenings. Now, research is revealing just how much honouring your natural rhythm matters for your overall well-being. So, pour a cup of camomile and pull up a pillow while we explain why leaning into your sleep habits is the health and recovery hack you've been missing.
UNDERSTANDING CHRONOTYPES
JUST LIKE YOUR HEIGHT, your chronotype is (for the most part) both genetically determined and fixed. "People are beginning to understand that their chronotype is biological, and it's not something to do with your attitude, willpower or whether you're a productive person," says Jennifer Martin, president of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and a professor of medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California.
But while genetics play a major role, environmental factors play their part too. "Poor sleep hygiene, such as using your phone late at night, can also impact chronotypes," adds Shelby Harris, a clinical psychologist specialising in behavioural sleep medicine. Inconsistent eating patterns and the fact that many people don't get substantial natural light during the day might also explain why there's a variance in chronotypes.
You may not be able to bypass your hardwiring entirely, but you can control some of the lifestyle issues around you.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
LONGOVERDUE PRAISE FOR THE RUNNING SINGLET
In the last decade, the running singlet once reserved for amateur competitors and professional athletes - has gone mainstream, not only on race day but also on everyday runs.
RISE OF THE 'ILLEGAL RUNNING SHOES
Banned shoes emerged at a basketball court long before they found their way onto a marathon course.
CRACKING THE SLEEP CODE
Are you an early bird or a night owl? Perhaps you've assigned yourself another animal after completing an internet quiz. Research is shedding light on the link between well-being and circadian predisposition, but there's no need to rewire yourself. Learn to lean into your biology with our guide.
THE SECRET TO SPEED IS IN YOUP BLOOD
Some of the world's best runners credit this unorthodox Norwegian training method for their success. Is it right for you?
THE MIND OF MASSYN
IN 2024, LOUIS MASSYN WILL ATTEMPT HIS 49TH COMRADES MARATHON AND HE'S LEARNT PLENTY OF LESSONS ALONG THE WAY. HERE'S THE STORY OF HIS AMAZING JOURNEY.
TAKING CHARGE
OUTSPOKEN AND AMBITIOUS, NEW COMRADES RACE MANAGER (AND FORMER WINNER) ANN ASHWORTH IS LOOKING TO TAKE THE RACE INTO THE FUTURE.
A HALF CENTURY OF COMRADES
THIS YEAR, BARRY HOLLAND WILL BE AIMING TO FINISH HIS 50TH CONSECUTIVE COMRADES MARATHON. THIS IS WHAT HAS INSPIRED HIM.
MY RUNNING LIFE
ORDINARY RUNNERS doing EXTRAORDINARY THINGS
Ageing In The Age Of Strava
RECENTLY MY BUDDY Sean sent a text message that said, “Been running a lot of 5:30–6:00 kays early. It feels pretty nice at that pace.”
How To Start A Run When You Don't Feel Like It
I'VE ALWAYS FELT validation when reading a story about writers and their love of procrastination.