In the busy, multitasking world we live in, many times we make concessions or take shortcuts in order to get from here to there. Some concessions are understandable and can be carried out with relative impunity: Take for instance, opting to watch less television in order to care for more important matters. Other times the choices we make can have...

Falling soundly asleep is usually a highly sought after reward, especially after a long day’s activity. There is however, a situation when sleep is most unwelcome–behind the wheel. It’s been estimated that some 250,000 Americans get behind the wheel daily while in a state of sleep deprivation. Driving under these circumstances has been compared to driving while intoxicated, and indeed,...

Spring forward, fall back. That expression refers to how our clocks are affected by the changing seasons. Not only the clock on the wall, but our body clocks–our circadian rhythms–can be affected as well. In my prior installment, I discussed how the onset of autumn and the oncoming winter season can disrupt sleep patterns for some. Here are a few...

The change of season can mean many things to many people. For some, the crisp autumn air brings to mind vivid foliage, apple picking, and a welcome respite from the incessant activity of summer. For others it means an end to long sunny days, the dwindling of fresh local produce, and a prelude to the bleak specter of winter. No...