0

0

2

0

0

2

0

0

2

In This Article

The brain’s effect on the circadian rhythm
492

The brain’s effect on the circadian rhythm

A master clock - the suprachiasmatic nucleus regulates our biological clock that affects our sleep wake cycle. Through the regulation of melatonin, it induces sleepiness, body temperature and body function.

Clocks are ubiquitous in our lives, and the oldest clock in human history is the one we function on — the circadian rhythm. The effect of the circadian rhythm is anchored on the visual perception of white light from the sun that triggers a sequence of events.

Have you wondered why we wake up fresher in the morning? Or why a sleepless night can derail us? Disturbances in this pathway are what affect our sleep cycle and energy levels due to late night hours in front of the screen, and our energy levels during the day.

As many studies state, morning light is essential to keep mental and physical health on its toes. The small region called the suprachiasmatic nucleus regulates hormones like melatonin and cortisol which balance the sleep-wake cycle in our body.

The infographic illustrates the sequence of events that occur in the brain that mediates the circadian rhythm in response to light.

Circadian rhythm on the brain - It is a biological clock that regulates sleep and wakefulness based on the natural environment. Suprachiasmatic Nucleus (SCN) regulates body temperature and hormones when light hits the eyes. SCN when activated signals the pineal gland to stop melatonin production. Melatonin a hormone released in the absence of light induces sleep, and lowers body temperature. The body temperature rises, and a person is awake. As the day ends, the reverse process is initiated.
The circadian rhythm is influenced by the brain and how it is stimulated by light | Illustration by Varsha Vivek

Read more: It takes two brain networks to read words and sentences
Read more: The fascinating symphony of neurotransmitters

Share Your Experience/Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Summit Registration

NOTE: The summit will be held at NIMHANS Convention Centre, Bengaluru.

Wellness Registration Form

-
-
-
Total Amount INR 3000
Trending

Articles

Article
Some couples consciously decide not to have children despite familial and social expectations, wanting to make the best of their relationship. Children should be had for their own sake, says psychotherapist Tasneem Nakhoda
Article
Insufficient consumption of heart-healthy foods can affect cardiovascular health. Experts discuss beneficial dietary choices
Article
Cycling and walking are both great cardiovascular activities that aid weight loss and keep various health conditions away. Pick one that suits your fitness goals and physical condition, say experts
Article
The risk of heart attacks and strokes for middle-aged, overweight people with high blood pressure is 35 percent higher compared to those with a healthy body weight 
Article
Summer drinks, though hydrating, can have excess sugar. Nutritionists suggest a few alternatives to keep the body temperature and sugar levels down
Article
Packed with protein, this recipe will help in weight management by keeping you full for a long time
Trending

Articles

Article
Some couples consciously decide not to have children despite familial and social expectations, wanting to make the best of their relationship. Children should be had for their own sake, says psychotherapist Tasneem Nakhoda
Article
Insufficient consumption of heart-healthy foods can affect cardiovascular health. Experts discuss beneficial dietary choices
Article
Cycling and walking are both great cardiovascular activities that aid weight loss and keep various health conditions away. Pick one that suits your fitness goals and physical condition, say experts

0

0

2

Web Stories 

0

0

2

0

0

2

Opt-in To Our Daily Healthzine

A potion of health & wellness delivered daily to your inbox

Personal stories and insights from doctors, plus practical tips on improving your happiness quotient

Opt-in To Our Daily Healthzine

A potion of health & wellness delivered daily to your inbox

Personal stories and insights from doctors, plus practical tips on improving your happiness quotient
We use cookies to customize your user experience, view our policy here

Your feedback has been submitted successfully.

The Happiest Health team will reach out to you at the earliest