Our brains have natural daily cycles of alertness and relaxation which we inherited from our primitive ancestors. According to those who study these circadian rhythms, there are two times during the day our brains are most alert and receptive to incoming signals.
The first time is early in the morning when we wake up. Our ancient relatives became alert after sleeping, to sounds of danger, so they could protect themselves and their families from harm.
The second time is around 7 or 8 p.m., when we prepare ourselves for sleep. The cavemen had to be alert again at this time, in order to be aware of possible dangers during sleep.
In modern life, of course, we have many choices and a lot less dangers when we sleep. Yet our brains continue to operate with daily cycles of alertness followed by relaxation.
I am one of those modern beasts who chooses to use the morning hours. I love taking advantage of my brain's natural rush of activity. I can't stay in bed because my thinking becomes creative. The juices flow and I gladly get up to write or do something else creatively.
I am married to a modern beast who chooses to use the evening hours. He loves being creative in the evening.
Looking at our natural rhythms from an evolutionary perspective can help you decide when to capture your natural energy.
The pharmaceutical industry is working very hard to find pills that can enhance alertness. Read about one such effort over on the Brain Waves blog.
Until then, the best way to go is natural. There are some natural herbs that can enhance alertness for work and sports, such as those developed by Mind-FX Science.
How do you know when your own mental alertness cycle kicks in? Staying off of alcohol and drugs will clear your mind and make you more alert to your body, mind, and brain.
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