Why Your Chronotype Matters More Than You Think

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Have you ever wondered why you feel sharp and focused at dawn while your partner hits their stride after sunset? Or why your teenager seems to come alive just as you're winding down? These patterns aren’t just quirks—they’re rooted in biology. In this episode of Speaking of … College of Charleston, Psychology professor Cindi May unpacks the science of chronotypes and circadian rhythms, revealing how our internal clocks influence everything from academic performance and medical diagnoses to relationships and daily decision-making. Whether you're a morning lark, a night owl, or somewhere in between, understanding your chronotype could be the key to unlocking your best self.

“Your chronotype is your natural preference for sleep and wake times, and it’s driven by your circadian rhythm,” says May. “These rhythms are powerful internal timekeepers that affect your body temperature, hormone levels and cognitive functioning throughout the day.”

While society isn’t always structured to accommodate individual chronotypes, May believes awareness is key. “Understanding your chronotype isn’t just interesting, it’s empowering. It helps you advocate for yourself, whether you’re scheduling a test, a meeting, or a medical appointment.”

Tune in to learn how understanding your natural rhythm can help you optimize your outcomes and navigate a world often out of sync with your internal clock.

Resources from this episode:

·      Take the Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire to determine whether you are a morning type (lark), evening type (owl) or neutral. 

·      Cindi May: https://charleston.edu/psychology/faculty/may-cindi.php