Are you familiar with Chronotypes? An early bird or night owl? Your bodies biological and genetic clock. I began exploring this subject when I started going through perimenopause. Lack of sleep is one of the most common effects for women going through “the change of life”. Boy was it a change. I was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 46. After surgical intervention and radiation therapy, I was put on estrogen-blocking medication. Enter menopause, sleepless nights, waking up tired along with mid-afternoon slumps.
I was desperate to find out why I couldn’t sleep. Perhaps too much coffee in the morning or eating dinner too close to bedtime? On Sunday Mornings I watch CBS This Morning and one of the episodes’ featured Dr Michael Breus; a psychologist and sleep specialist. He discussed the role of our Per3 gene, one of the primary components of the circadian clock system. This gene is responsible for delayed sleep syndrome. I knew I had to read his book “The Power of When”. A great read to determine when you should complete specific tasks in your day and take a closer look at your eating habits. These play a huge part in our productivity and health.
There are four different Chronotypes; Lion, Bear, Dolphin and Wolf. I quickly took the online quiz to determine which type I was. It turned out that I am a Dolphin. Ten percent of the population are Dolphins. I frequently wake up at night and I am sensitive to noise and lights. Tired throughout the day, yet with an energy spurt in the evening. Dolphins are noted to be cautious, intelligent, and strive for perfection. Yes, this definitely sounds like me.
Making some small shifts throughout my day has enhanced my sleep. Exercising in the morning, having a breakfast filled with protein and waiting, yes waiting an hour or so for sipping that glorious first cup of morning coffee. Change can be hard but with perseverance and faith, my mental and physical health has improved.
Sayonara creativity blocks, hello brainstorming!
References:
- The Power of When Quiz
- Chronotype – Perfect time to do anything
- Discover your Chronotype and unlock your best time to eat and sleep
by Peggy Benson
About the author:
Peggy Benson is a yoga and meditation teacher, space clearer, visionary, fear tamer and positivity promoter. As an intuitive, she channels spirit guiding clients to change their energetic footprint, creating alignment within their homes and lives so they may find joy, peace, clarity and harmony. In her day job, she works as an optician. Outside of the office, you will find her going on adventures with her husband and three grandkids, baking, reading, listening to music, cheering for the MN Twins.
