The term zeitgeber (literally, time giver or time cue) refers to environmental variables that are capable of acting as circadian time cues. These are the cues that influence the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hypothalamus which famous as the "biological clock" inside us.
A simple mnemonic to remember all those cues think "LET'S Eat":
1. Light (most powerful).
2. Exercise or Movement.
3. Temperature.
4. Social Cues.
5. Eat (food).
These act unconsciously but can be used consciously to keep your biological rhythm healthy which impact all forms of health, including of course, mental health.
Comments
You may ask why the term "zeitgeber" instead of more simple "time cue", because this research is done in German, so those German researchers had the right to name their work. Zeitgeber is German for a time giver.
Another very nice, short, and enlightening read. Thank you so much Dr. Mahmoud!
I'm humbled by your comment, glad I know that these simple posts are always read and liked by you.