Losing an hour of sleep when daylight saving time rolls around may make you groggy. Research suggests that the time shift may also have a measurable effect on our health.
Tips for Easier DST Transition
1. Build a healthy sleep routine
Before daylight saving time (DST) begins or ends, adjust your schedule as much as possible to its regular schedule, and make sure you get enough sleep. One hour less sleep than usual can cause more disruption if it’s not unusual for you.
2. A gradual sleep shift is advised before DTS
To adjust to Daylight Saving Time (DST), the time change that occurs in the spring of each year, try gradually adjusting your sleep schedule by moving your bedtime and wake-up time 15 minutes earlier each day. This will help you adjust gradually to the one-hour time change.
3. Slowly push back your evening meal
Eating too close to bedtime can keep you awake. To fall asleep easily at night, avoid eating within three to four hours before going to sleep. Gradually delay your last meal earlier in the week before the time changes.
4. Set your clocks one hour ahead before Daylight Saving Time begins
Whitney Hardy, MD, recommends adjusting all your clocks ahead before you go to bed the night before daylight saving time begins. You can greet the new time with a clear head in the morning.
5. Wake up early and bathe in sunlight
To maximize your sleep time, gradually expose yourself to sunlight first thing in the morning and get outside when possible. Avoid electronics before bed, such as cell phones and laptops, that emit blue light.