The Finch Formerly Known As Gold

16 March 2006

Sync or swim

Patterico has discovered a Great Truth about himself:

I was in between my clerkship, which I had just completed, and my return to my civil job at a large New York sweatshop law firm (no offense, Jackie!). I took about two months, and played computer chess, read books, exercised, and generally experimented with my circadian rhythm period. I discovered I have a natural day of 28-29 hours. Every day I woke up 4-5 hours later than the day before. It was fun. Everyone should do it once.

I know whereof he speaks; mine runs about 26:30. Obviously I'd be better suited to a planet like Bajor, where the day runs twenty-six hours — assuming I didn't have to put up with any scheming Cardassians.

Posted at 11:42 AM to General Disinterest


I'd have to get a dispensation -- ain't no way I'm wearing any kind of earring, let alone one of those mini-chandeliers.

Posted by: McGehee at 3:39 PM on 16 March 2006

As for the actual topic (imagine that!), I've always read that the natural circadian rhythm is 25 hours or so, but is reset daily by sunshine, if available.

I gather they tested this with subjects kept in windowless rooms.

Posted by: McGehee at 3:41 PM on 16 March 2006