Intellectual Cycle

Biorhythm Theory

Intellectual Cycle

The 33-day cycle is representative of man’s intellectual fluctuations. To date, researchers have focused somewhat less on the intellectual than on the other two cycles, which is understandable since much remains to be done in aiding man to understand and use his mental powers. Some doctors claim this cycle is closely related to secretions of the thyroid. Independent medical studies have pointed out correlation’s between variations in intellectual performance and hormone levels; again, this is an area which has not been thoroughly explored. The first half of this cycle (161/2 days) is the time when students and others engaged in intellectual pursuits are more able to absorb new concepts, be more creative, make notable progress. We all know that studying is a breeze at some times, a drag at others. The first half of the cycle is considered prime time for creative thinking, for progress in new subject areas, for mental successes when memory is at a premium, and for work which demands accurate and immediate mental responses. Since the mind responds most rapidly to new challenges during this period, it would probably be the best time to be in a new assignment or a new job.

The second half of this 33-day cycle (also 16½ days) is a time when one’s ability to think logically is somewhat reduced. The IQ doesn’t automatically lose 10 points; the brain just says it isn’t quite so happy with a heavy load of new stimulation. Remember that energies have been discharged in the first half of the cycle. Now the mind wants a little rest, in order to store up energy again. During this time, it is somewhat more difficult to absorb new ideas, to do creative thinking, or to perform mental exercises where concentration, memory, and quick mental response are required. This time is probably best suited to review of previously learned concepts, to practice of lessons which should be learned by rote, to absorption and consolidation of prior gains. The second half of the intellectual cycle seems to be the best time to practice your lines, go over your French verb endings, and edit the paper you wrote. The critical days in the 33-day intellectual cycle are the 1st and 17th days. These may be days when important decisions could best be delayed. If you know that a major matter must be resolved on one of those days, it might be a good idea to try to see all sides of the question beforehand. But we all have to face some problems without any warning. Take a little extra time to think it over; it could be helpful. Also, as you will discover in a later chapter, the circumstances under which these critical days occur will make a difference. No part of life needs to grind to a halt just because it’s a critical day or the low part of the cycle. A big exam or a big interview can be handled well even on the least promising day; most of us have taken one or the other with a cold and still scored high. We’re a little cautious, or we work extra hard beforehand, or we make a special effort to get the adrenaline flowing. lf we know in advance that a task will be more difficult than usual, we can be properly prepared, and this is where the biorhythm theory can be most useful.

These are the three basic biorhythm cycles-their monthly cyclical lengths and variations. But keep in mind that each person’s cycles will be individual. Though everyone born on the same day in the same year will have identical cycles, they will obviously not have identical lives. Not only will their circumstances be different, but their income and learned reactions to events will also differ sharply. All three cycles will change with age: a young person’s are likely to peak more sharply, an older person’s to flatten out. Health, Temperament, character, and probably heredity will influence the steepness of the curve and the way one responds to fluctuations in his potential. Awareness of where you stand in each of your life cycles at a particular time, and how you function while being at various points in each of the three cycles will help you determine the best coping mechanisms for your particular life style.