You know your zodiac sign, Ayurvedic dosha, and Myers-Briggs type. (If not, have fun!) But, are you familiar with your sleep chronotype? If you’ve ever wondered why you naturally rise before the sun—but your bestie is a night owl—it’s because each of us has a sleep chronotype. Fascinating, right? Ultimately, knowing your sleep chronotype is the key to optimizing your energy levels, getting a better night’s sleep, and improving your overall well-being. With that in mind, we’re geeking out on all things sleep and the best breakfasts for you—based on your sleep chronotype.
Whether you’re an early riser or a night wanderer, it’s time to embrace your sleep chronotype. In turn, you’ll learn how to make a morning meal to keep you thriving all day long.
Featured image from our interview with Kimberly Snyder by Teal Thomsen.
All About the Circadian Rhythm
You’ve heard of it, but what exactly is it? In essence, the circadian rhythm is an internal timekeeping system. It governs two things: our biological processes and behavioral patterns. This mesmerizing phenomenon creates a 24-hour, bodily rhythm. Primarily influenced by external cues, such as light and darkness, the circadian rhythm regulates our sleep-wake cycle. That said, it also modulates our body temperature, hormone secretion, and more. Think of the circadian rhythm as a steadfast conductor, synchronizing our bodies with the natural world around us.
Why does a consistent sleep routine matter?
Before we dive into the four sleep chronotypes (and how to determine yours), let’s talk about the power of a consistent sleep routine. In many ways, prioritizing a regular sleep schedule allows your body—and mind—to reap the full benefits of restorative sleep. In turn, this sets the foundation for a healthier life. Below are the benefits of a consistent sleep routine:
- Optimal sleep quality. A (mostly) unwavering sleep schedule allows your body to establish a regular circadian rhythm, ensuring you get the right amount of sleep at the right time. This leads to deeper sleep cycles.
- Enhanced performance and productivity. A consistent sleep routine results in better cognitive function, improved focus, and increased productivity.
- Mental and emotional well-being. Quality sleep is closely linked to emotional well-being and mental health. It helps regulate mood and reduces the risk of mood disorders, anxiety, and depression.
- Physical health benefits. Adequate and consistent sleep is essential for physical health. It supports immune function, helps with weight management, and reduces the risk of various chronic conditions.
- Hormone health. Sleep is crucial for happy hormones! Regular sleep patterns help maintain the hormones responsible for appetite regulation, stress response, and fertility.
- Improved memory. A consistent sleep routine allows your brain to effectively process and retain information. In fact, you’ve probably noticed how sleep deprivation impacts your alertness, focus, and memory.
- Decreased risk of sleep disorders. This goes without saying, but a consistent sleep routine can reduce the risk of developing sleep disorders, as irregular sleep patterns may contribute to conditions like insomnia or circadian rhythm disorders.
- Longevity. Numerous studies correlate consistent, sufficient sleep with increased longevity and a higher quality of life in the long run.
The Four Sleep Chronotypes
As mentioned, each sleep chronotype relates to our body’s biological clock (aka circadian rhythm). But what are they? The four types are lions, bears, wolves, and dolphins.
- Lions: Morning people who like to wake up early, and are typically most productive in the morning.
- Bears: Their sleep schedule is synced with the sun, with most productivity in the morning.
- Wolves: They prefer to wake up later in the day, and are most productive in the afternoon or evening.
- Dolphins: They have trouble waking up and falling asleep, and are most productive around midday.
Sleep Chronotypes, Explained
According to board-certified sleep specialist, Michael J. Breus, Ph.D. (who coined the four sleep chronotypes!), lions, bears, wolves, and dolphins each have their own unique daytime and nighttime rhythms.
1. Lions
A true morning person, this individual can easily (read: naturally) wake up at the crack of dawn. Most days, they’re keen on a 6 a.m. wake-up time and roughly a 10 p.m. bedtime. These folks also sleep for five full sleep cycles and fall asleep quickly. Because this sleep chronotype is prone to sluggishness in the afternoon, it’s best for them to get outside after lunch to beat the afternoon slump. With that in mind, lions are most productive in the morning.
2. Bears
Bears are characterized by waking and sleeping with the sun. They’re not night owls and prefer to wake up relatively early. When it comes to waking up and going to bed, bears typically get five full sleep cycles (like lions) and like to wake up around 7 a.m. and go to bed around 11 p.m. Because they like to operate with the sun, bears are most productive in the morning and should try to avoid scheduling bigger tasks in the afternoon.
3. Wolves
Unlike bears, wolves usually sleep for only four full sleep cycles. This sleep chronotype likes to wake up around 7 a.m. and go to bed at roughly midnight. If this is your type, you may notice morning grogginess. A hot tip: instead of reaching for a cup of coffee, hydrate as soon as you wake up and get sun exposure to signal to your body that it’s time to be alert! You may also consider a sleep-supporting supplement to help you fall asleep faster. Wolves tend to be the most productive later in the day. They do best with calm, slow mornings and bigger tasks late in the day.
4. Dolphins
Last but not least, dolphins. These folks often struggle with waking up and falling asleep. With this sleep chronotype, their optimal wake-up time is 6:30 a.m. and an 11 p.m.(ish) bedtime. If this is your type, keep a journal on your nightstand to get your thoughts out before bed. This type is also the most focused and productive from mid-afternoon to evening, so keep your morning responsibilities light. P.S. Dolphins love a power nap.
Which sleep chronotype am I?
Based on those descriptions, you probably have a good idea. That said, you can also take this quiz to find out. Inevitably, knowing your type can help you create a schedule that truly works for you and—further—why your current schedule might not be working.
But remember, circumstances are never perfect. Whether you’re a new mom, work a nighttime shift, or have to stay up late studying, have grace with yourself. Prioritize sleep as best you can. When possible, allow your sleep chronotype to boost your productivity and support your sleep needs.
Why align your breakfast with your circadian rhythm?
Before we talk meal inspo, it’s worth a reminder that breakfast is important no matter your chronotype. Skipping breakfast—or eating overly processed foods—can cause blood sugar issues. However, aligning your morning meal according to your natural circadian rhythms can promote stable blood sugar. Hello, better daytime energy and night’s rest! In other words, the right breakfast can help your cortisol in the morning, which can promote greater productivity throughout the day. Plus, we need a nourishing breakfast for overall hormone health and a robust metabolism.
Breakfast Ideas for Your Sleep Chronotype
Ready to use your sleep chronotype to design the most energy-boosting, nourishing morning meal for your body? Look no further.
Lions
Rise and shine, lions! Since this sleep chronotype tends to wake feeling energized, they may choose to exercise before breakfast. Regardless, lions should eat a protein-focused breakfast within 30-60 minutes of waking to aid in stable energy levels throughout the day. What does a sample plate look like for a lion? A hearty egg (or tofu) scramble with spinach, mushrooms, and peppers with a side of cottage cheese topped with berries and nut butter. Otherwise, a protein smoothie and avocado toast will do the trick. For on the go: opt for a slice of a frittata and a banana or a container of overnight oats.
Recipes for Lion Chronotypes:
- Chocolate Banana Almond Butter Smoothie
- Savory Cottage Cheese Bowls
- Avocado Toast with Kale Pesto and Crunchy Veggies
- Pumpkin Overnight Oats
- Vegetable Drawer Goat Cheese Frittata
- Tofu Scramble with Shredded Cabbage & Chili Sambal on Sourdough Toast
Bears
Bears are prone to eating a sugar-forward breakfast, which can work against them in a few ways. This will eventually lead to daytime fatigue (blood glucose crash) and sugar cravings. If you prefer a sweeter breakfast—and this is your sleep chronotype—prioritize something more protein-forward. Think: Greek yogurt with fruit and hemp seeds or eggs and turkey breakfast sausage. For bears to get their sweet fix, try naturally sweetened muffins with a filling smoothie or bowl of keto chia pudding on the side.
Recipes for Bear Chronotypes:
- Vegan Nutty Banana Muffins
- Almond Butter Green Smoothie
- Keto Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding
- Swirled Yogurt & Smoothie Bowl
- Baked Green Eggs with Roast Tomato & Chilli Salsa
- Shakshuka
Wolves
Although this sleep chronotype often prefers to guzzle a cup of coffee before eating, a jittery wolf isn’t ideal. Since wolves have low energy levels in the morning, they tend to rely heavily on caffeine for energy. Instead, hydration will trigger digestion and increase their core temperature, making them feel more energized. Follow up a glass of H20 with a balanced breakfast that doesn’t require a lot of preparation, such as hard-boiled eggs and fruit or a fiber-rich bowl of oatmeal. Afterward, enjoy your coffee or matcha!
Recipes for Wolf Chronotypes:
Dolphins
Like bears, dolphins may gravitate toward a sugar-laden breakfast. Reason being? A lack of sleep triggers cravings for refined carbs. While a stack of pancakes may help temporarily, they’ll wind up more exhausted by mid-morning. Dolphins especially need to build a balanced plate. Think: adequate protein (20-40 grams), 1-2 sources of healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates to help stabilize blood sugar. Breakfast ideas for this sleep chronotype include a veggie-packed quiche, Greek yogurt toast, or challah French toast with a protein shake on the side.
Recipes for Dolphin Chronotypes:
