NIGHT OWLS VS. EARLY BIRDS
After being awakened earlier than I wanted to be by Tom, who believes days off are for getting things done (where is the proof?) and grousing about it on my FaceBook page I decided I should do a little research for today’s blog on Night Owls vs. Early Birds.
There is some interesting stuff out there !
While many of us categorize ourselves as one or the other, in reality only about 10% of the population are truly “morning people” and 20% true night owls. That leaves the rest of us somewhere in the middle or leaning toward one side or the other. If you don’t know which you are (then you probably aren’t!) but want to check it out go to REAL SIMPLE magazine on line, the issue from last month (leading a Balanced Life) and take the quiz. I wasn’t as Owlish as I thought but it did confirm my partner’s Early Bird status. The quiz was based on a Circadian Rhythm study done in 1976, however more recent studies have shown the same results. You are pretty standard if you are up between 7-8AM and go to bed between 11-12.
The natural early risers tend to have more natural sleep patterns, are more flexible and in general, tend to be happier and healthier while than those of us who are active well into the night are more prone to depression, chronic fatigue and poor sleep habits (Psychology Today, Sept. 1, 2013 Fulfillment at Any Age). The good news for those of us who are depressed and fatigued? We stay more focused during the day, especially late afternoon when the early risers are wanting to nap.
Even though our patterns may change during our life time the most recent study done last year at Aaachen University in Germany found that there are definite differences in the brain structure of “night owls” and “early birds” that may account for these habits.
However all is not lost for those of you who want to change. There are some things you can do to reset your cloc., for instance you can increase your exposure to more natural sunlight and less artificial light. Even an overcast day provides natural light if you go outside. The combination of natural light and exercise (walking) can effect your circadian rhythm. Inside the natural light spectrum can be provided by a light box, placed in your reading environment or desk for 30 or more minutes a day.
As for me, I’ll continue with my late evening solitude, reading, journaling, listening to Tom snore. My early morning grumps are easily dispelled with fresh orange juice and good company most days.