Daylight savings time has been around for about 100 years, but the controversy still exists today. It can take your internal clock a bit of time to readjust to the switch–even when it’s just an hour. If you have children, you know that DST can be even harder because it messes with their bedtimes and wake-ups as well.
On the other hand, the extra daylight hours are probably welcome, particularly in the evening. It can be downright depressing to commute home from work in the dark. And for those who suffer from lowered mood during the colder and darker months of the year, or even seasonal affective depression disorder (SADD), that extra daylight time can mean a significant increase in quality of life.
The good news is that a bit of planning and subtle switches to your routine can make the adjustment to DST seamless–so much so that you’ll have completely forgotten it by Monday morning.
Jump Ahead Early
First of all, you’ll lose an hour of sleep when that clock moves ahead early Sunday. You could try to go to bed a little earlier to make up for it, but if you can’t fall asleep you could just end up tossing and turning. You can mitigate this by starting your DST a bit earlier than the rest of us. The clocks switch early on Sunday morning, but SparkPeople suggests prepping earlier by setting a clock ahead on Friday night before bedtime? Then try to adjust your schedule to that reset clock on Saturday, as much as you can, before the switch is official.
Amp Up Your Serotonin
Serotonin is a chemical naturally produced by the human body that works as a neurotransmitter and helps regulate our mood. And when we exercise, our bodies release more serotonin. Exercise regularly, and work out outdoors and in daylight whenever possible. Keep in mind that for some people, exercising close to bedtime can interfere with sleep for some people. And keep it up once you’ve adjusted to DST–regular exercise is good for your sleep in general.
Open Those Curtains
And since exposure to light and darkness affects our circadian rhythms, use it to your advantage. Expose yourself to sunlight in the morning to help you wake up, perhaps by opening up your windows or walking to work. Dim your lights in the evening to help your body wind down and prepare for sleep. And try to make your room as dark as possible at night–blackening shades and curtains can make a big difference.
Daylight savings can have a major impact on your body and your sleep patterns. Use the tips above this weekend to improve your chances for showing up to work refreshed and ready to go on Monday.