You’ve heard the term “biological clock.” It’s not just an
abstract expression—there really is a specific area of the brain that’s
responsible for regulating bodily functions that relate to timing. This area is
often called the body’s “internal clock.” Doctors refer to it as the circadian
rhythm.
The sleep-wake cycle regulates sleep
Heart activity, body temperature, and hormone secretion are just
a few of the master clock’s responsibilities. But the most familiar is the
sleep-wake cycle. The sleep-wake cycle is what makes us feel alert during the
day and sleepy at night. It’s your body’s way of adapting to the daily cycle of
light and dark as the Earth rotates every 24 hours.
Disruptions can bring about insomnia
We live in a 24-hour society. Some of us regularly work night
shifts, pull “all-nighters,” or travel across several time zones in one day.
And if you’ve ever felt sleepy or groggy after doing one of these things,
it’s because there’s been a disruption to your sleep-wake cycle. Your body
thinks it’s one time when the outside world says it’s another.
Disruptions to the sleep-wake cycle, whether brought on voluntarily or by other
issues like everyday stress or illness, can bring about insomnia. Fortunately,
there’s Rozerem. Learn more about how
Rozerem works with your body’s normal sleep-wake cycle to help you fall asleep.
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