The Most Common Circadian Rhythm that You’re Probably a Part of
When reading a book called “Inner Clock” by Lynn Peeples, she noted how she would feel tired in the afternoons and this differed from other circadian rhythm types like “extreme larks” and “extreme owls.” I started thinking, I’ve always had trouble getting up before 5 AM, have the most energy between 7 and 9, and am tired at 2 PM too. After having experimented in the past between being a “lark” or “owl” (early morning or late night), I’m figuring that I’m part of the “Common Dove” circadian rhythm.
Turns out, most people are Common Dove’s. There’s some adaptability between when to wake and sleep, but for the most part, when going awry from a routine of rising at sunrise and sleeping a few hrs past sunset, jet lag can be real.
As for me, I’m happy to have figured this out, though I’ve been working according to my needs anyhow. What’s interesting is how she notes that, since most are Common Doves, that the hours between 2-4 PM are the most common for accidents. Have you noticed this? Personally, I’ve always noticed traffic the worst off at those times, and in fact she even said that statistically people are more likely to get in car crashes either in the early morning or between 2-4 PM.
Takeaway
Understanding your circadian rhythm can help to keep your chin up rather than being disappointed if you lack energy at certain times than others. Not only this, but your ultradian rhythm is in sync with the circadian and dictates energy cycles (Sinking into an Ultradian Rhythm)
As I’m reading through the book I may come across more insights in which case I’ll update this article.