Circadian Health Glossary
Midpoint of Sleep
The midpoint of sleep is the halfway point between the time you fall asleep and the time you wake up. It serves as a key marker in understanding an individual’s chronotype and aligning their sleep schedule with their circadian rhythm.
How Is the Midpoint of Sleep Calculated?
- Example: If yousleepfrom 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., yourmidpoint of sleepis 3:00 a.m.
-
It varies between workdays and free days, often highlighting differences caused by social jet lag.
Why Is the Midpoint of Sleep Important?
-
Chronotype Identification: Aids in determining whether someone is a morning lark or night owl.
-
Circadian Health: Helps assess alignment or misalignment with natural circadian rhythms.
-
Sleep Research: A useful metric for studying sleep patterns and their impact on health and productivity.
The midpoint of sleep is a simple yet effective measure for understanding sleep timing and supporting better circadian health.