Daylight saving time officially begins at 2:00 am (EST) on Sunday, March 13, 2022. For many, the time change means losing an hour of precious sleep. Remember, Spring forward.
Due to a disruption in circadian rhythms, the sudden time change affects some people’s sleep patterns, moods, and lifestyles more than others. But do not worry. Only you know what is best for your body. Go ahead and plan to help you adjust. If you need tips for adjusting to Daylight Savings Time, check out the following.
- Sleep: Get plenty of sleep, at least 7 hours. Try to go to sleep at the same time every night. Being consistent helps your body adjust to the time difference. If you know the time difference effects your sleep patterns, try going to bed 15 minutes earlier leading up to daylight savings time. Small modifications to your routine can help your body adjust to the upcoming lost hour of sleep.
- Get Outdoors: Soaking up sunlight even on chilly days helps your body’s natural process. Go for a walk. Enjoy the sunshine.
- Avoid Long Naps: Go ahead. Take a nap, just a short one. If you are tired from the time change, avoid long naps. Set your alarm, if needed. But take only a short nap When you oversleep in the afternoon, you are interrupting your bedtime routine.
- Know Your Limits: Before bedtime, limit caffeine and alcohol consumption. When you add extra stimulants into your system, your body cannot properly relax to go to sleep.
- Workout Early: Avoid working out before bedtime. Exercising late in the evening may make it more difficult to fall asleep.
- Reduce Screen Time: Allow your mind to relax. Turn off your notifications on your phone. Shut down your electronics between a half hour and hour before you go to sleep.
- Set the Mood: Dim the lights, drink herbal tea, listen to relaxing music, and unwind before going to bed. Relaxing allows your body to adjust to the time change.
Adjusting to the upcoming time change requires extra self-care. Be aware of your body’s needs.
