Geometric Interpretation of Relativity: 6D Worldline and Time Dilation.

This image shows how energy is partitioned between our 4D spacetime and the complex phase-plane orthogonal to time. Each rotation is considered a "tick" of the internal clock.

If a particle is made of a photon packet with invariant speed c, we see the photon's proper trajectory as a circle on the complex phase plane. An observer traveling through space and/or time sees this as a 6D helix, or projected as a wave in 4D spacetime.

This image is one interpretation of phase dynamics. Increasing velocity relative to the observer may cause the radius to dilate to store more energy on the phase plane. This is seen as adding energy or photon packets to increase the 6D length. At the same time, it takes longer for a full  rotation, manifesting as time dilation (special relativity).

Similarly, in a gravitational well,  where there is a lower energy density in the phase plane, the radius dilates, causing a slower internal clock (general relativity). We see baryonic density (4D energy density) as inversely proportional to energy in the phase plane (dark energy).

A second interpretation keeps the radius fixed and the helix pitch stretches or contracts based on relative 4D velocity. The change in pitch also necessitates a change in rotations or ticks per second, resulting in time dilation.