Santé

Understanding the circadian cycle in 5 minutes

Comprendre le cycle circadien en 5min

Reading time: 9 min.




In short:

The circadian cycle is our internal clock. It regulates our energy, mood, sleep, and much more. Understanding how it works—and especially how lighting can influence it—is the key to a more balanced life. Here's how.




📌 Summary




A biological clock set to the day

Our circadian rhythm lasts approximately 24 hours. It dictates when we should be awake, active, and focused, or when we should be rested, calm, and ready to sleep. This rhythm also regulates body temperature, digestion, blood pressure, and many other vital functions.

It's not just a social habit: we have a real internal clock, located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the brain. It orchestrates our waking and sleeping phases in synchronization with the external environment.

Light: the conductor of rhythm

Light is the number one signal for regulating our body clock. In the morning, natural blue light inhibits melatonin and stimulates cortisol, promoting wakefulness and energy. During the day, this light maintains our alertness and mood.

In the evening, the light should dim and shift to warmer hues. This triggers the production of melatonin, the sleep hormone, once again. But our modern artificial lighting often prevents this transition...

When the cycle goes wrong

Night shifts, late-night screen time, and bright lighting at all hours—all factors disrupt our circadian rhythm. The result? Difficulty falling asleep, fatigue upon waking, and mood and concentration issues.

An out-of-sync cycle can have far more far-reaching long-term effects: weight gain, a weakened immune system, and even metabolic disorders. Getting back into a natural rhythm is therefore essential for overall health.

How to regain balance?

The secret: follow natural light. Here are some simple guidelines to help you do this:

  • Expose yourself to natural light in the morning, as soon as you wake up
  • Avoid cold and intense lights in the evening
  • Favor soft, warm, and subdued lighting after 8 p.m.

Laqi bulbs automatically replicate this cycle: cool, stimulating light in the morning, then warm, soothing light in the evening. All without manual adjustment.

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💬 FAQ

Why do we talk about the “circadian cycle”?

“Circa” means “around” and “dien” means “day” in Latin. So it’s the rhythm around the day.

Can we recalibrate our internal clock?

Yes, by exposing yourself to light in the morning and reducing light sources in the evening.

Is everyone following the same rhythm?

The cycle varies slightly between individuals (chronotypes), but the general principle remains the same.




“To follow the light is to follow one’s nature.”

Reprogram your light to reprogram your days—and your nights. With Laqi, you can finally regain control of your rhythm.

👉 Discover the Laqi Starter Kits

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