Description: Ultradian rhythms are biological cycles that occur in intervals shorter than 24 hours, unlike circadian rhythms, which last approximately a day. These rhythms can vary in duration, typically ranging from 90 minutes to several hours, and are present in various physiological and behavioral functions. Ultradian rhythms are essential for regulating processes such as sleep, feeding, hormonal activity, and cognitive performance. For example, the REM (rapid eye movement) sleep cycle is a clear example of an ultradian rhythm, as it repeats several times during the night. Additionally, these rhythms can influence productivity and alertness throughout the day, suggesting that individuals may experience peaks of energy and concentration at regular intervals. Understanding ultradian rhythms is crucial in various fields, including medicine, psychology, and education, as it allows for optimizing human performance and overall health by aligning activities and breaks with these natural cycles.
