We have all experienced it: an incessant wave of tiredness that hits mid-afternoon, accompanied by low morale, poor focus and heavy eyelids. This universal phenomenon, known as the afternoon energy slump, is driven by the workings of our body's internal 24-hour clock, the circadian rhythm.

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The circadian rhythm influences body temperature, sleep-wake cycles and memory consolidation. Picture Shutterstock

The circadian rhythm synchronises behaviour and bodily functions to a 24-hour clock. It influences critical body functions such as hormone release, body temperature, sleep-wake cycles

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