The Trials and Tribulations of Circadian Rhythm

Circadian rhythm is a fascinating aspect of human biology that governs our cycles of falling asleep and waking up, influencing everything from energy levels to mood and performance throughout the day. It’s often referred to as our internal clock, and it typically operates on a 24-hour cycle, responding to cues like light (sunrise) and darkness (sunset). Throughout my life, I’ve often found myself at odds with my own natural rhythm, sometimes feeling as if my circadian rhythm is a genetic setback that places me in a completely different timezone than most people around me.

For as long as I can remember, my circadian rhythm has felt like an outlier. While many people go to sleep at a reasonable hour, wake up early, and take advantage of their day, I often find myself wide awake–even feeling most productive–late at night, battling (and often submitting to) an overwhelming urge to get things done when the sun goes down. This divergence has been challenging, especially when it feels like society is designed for early risers; classes begin early in college, traditional desk jobs begin at 9:00 am, grade school begins at 8:00 am.?

My circadian rhythm neurodivergence began painfully obvious at a time when I first had the freedom to experience life on my own terms: COVID-19 quarantine. As my highschool transitioned to a fully asynchronous model, I found myself transitioning towards an entirely different schedule. At its peak, I had begun going to bed as late (early?) 6 a.m. and waking up as late as 3 p.m, maintaining my meals and completing homework, just on a very out-of-whack schedule.?

Why am I wired to operate on virtually nocturnal hours??

Research indicates that our circadian rhythms can be influenced by genetics, and it’s possible that I’m simply a “night owl” by nature. While my friends thrived in the early mornings, I felt a surge of energy and creativity during the hours when the world quieted down. There was something oddly liberating about operating outside the hours of a traditional schedule, during quarantine but at the same time I struggled with being so significantly out of sync with the rest of society.

Living with a misaligned circadian rhythm has its challenges. The constant battle against sleep deprivation can impact my mood, focus, and overall well-being. I often feel as if I’m racing against time, trying to keep up with commitments while my body seems to demand a different pace.

I have read online that there are steps one can take to work with instead of against their circadian rhythm. Some steps are as simple as developing a bedtime routine, shutting down devices earlier, and relaxing hours before bedtime. Some are as drastic as staying up for 24 hours straight, which some people believe can yield a fatigue so drastic that one’s circadian rhythm can be reset.?

Ultimately, while my circadian rhythm may differ–severely–from the norm, it doesn’t define my abilities. By taking proactive steps and finding ways to work with my natural inclinations, I may be able to create a life that feels more traditional and balanced, and therefore more relaxing and fulfilling. In the meantime, I’ll continue sharing my nocturnal escapades and late-night bursts of inspiration.