Page 82 - Mind Games The Aging Brain and How to Keep it Healthy

66 • Chapter 3

more detail in Chapter 6, “Regain an Agile Brain.” You may
describe yourself as a morning person, or you may recognize
that you are most energetic in the afternoon. Circadian
rhythms are becoming increasingly important in the medical
field as studies indicate that matching medicinal administra-
tion, surgery, and cancer treatments to your circadian
4
rhythm increases the success and survival rate. One exam-
ple of the circadian rhythm is that many individuals find
their energy level to be at its lowest after lunch. In fact, in tra-
ditional Mexican cultures, a siesta is a normal part of their
routine. We often assume this is a result of eating. But our en-
ergy level does not drop after eating breakfast or supper, so
this may be a result of your particular circadian rhythm. Be-
cause of circadian rhythms, there are variations in learning
readiness as well. Some studies indicate that as we grow
older, we begin to prefer the morning hours when energy is
at a peak. But this is not true for everyone; others’ energies
may peak in the evening. 5
Try to identify your time periods of peak performance.
Schedule doctor visits or other important meetings when
you are at your energy peak. Luncheons with business as-
sociates, relatives, or friends may be better rescheduled to
breakfasts or dinners. You want to be at your best when in-
teracting with others—not only because you want to leave a
good impression, but also because it will help you to inter-
act mentally at a higher performance level.
A note about circadian rhythms: It is difficult to be sym-
pathetic with someone who is two or three rhythms differ-
ent from you. It takes patience and understanding to realize
that this is a natural pattern, not an indication of another
person’s lethargy or excitability!

Circadian Rhythms Quiz
This assessment instrument can help you identify your cir-
cadian rhythms. Place a check next to the items in each cat-
egory that are most like you.