The major role of the biological clock in the regulation of sleep and wakefulness is to provide an internal and very powerful wake-up signal to the rest of the brain. We call this signal clock-dependent alerting. CDA fosters consolidated periods of peak alertness, high energy, and optimal mental performance at specific times during the day. When CDA subsides at the end of the day, we are “given permission” to fall asleep.
The major role of the biological clock in the regulation of sleep and wakefulness is to provide an internal and very powerful wake-up signal to the rest of the brain. We call this signal clock-dependent alerting. CDA fosters consolidated periods of peak alertness, high energy, and optimal mental performance at specific times during the day. When CDA subsides at the end of the day, we are “given permission” to fall asleep.
- William C. Dement, M.D., Ph.D