circadian rhythm
Definition
Circadian rhythm is an internal process that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and repeats roughly every 24 hours. It influences physical, mental, and behavioral changes according to the light and darkness in an organism's environment.
Analogy
Imagine your body as a smartwatch that is programmed to operate on a 24-hour cycle; it alerts you when to wake up, when to eat, and when to sleep, adjusting its settings based on the external environment much like how your circadian rhythm adjusts your body's functions based on day and night cycles.
Related terms
Melatonin: A hormone produced by the pineal gland during the night that regulates sleep patterns.
Suprachiasmatic Nucleus (SCN): An area of the brain in the hypothalamus responsible for controlling circadian rhythms by signaling other parts of the brain and body.
Sleep: Wake Cycle - The cycle of alternating states of sleep and wakefulness reflecting both circadian rhythms and homeostasis
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