It’s that time of year again. This weekend, you’ll sacrifice an hour of sleep in exchange for a few months of extra daylight.
Most of us look forward to springtime, but not to losing the hour of sleep when clocks spring forward.
Today kicks off daylight saving time and clocks will be turned ahead one hour. Losing that one hour of sleep can affect productivity, concentration, and both physical and mental health.
It’s important to keep sleeping patterns the same during the change to daylight saving time. Here are a few tips for doing that:
- Start getting to bed earlier.
- Be consistent.
A consistent sleep schedule based on a single pre-determined rise time will help you feel more rested throughout the entire year. Getting up at the same time is far more important than going to bed at the same time, though consistency on bedtime is certainly also important. And avoid taking a nap if it’s not part of your typical routine.
- Enjoy the longer evenings.
One great perk about spring and daylight saving time is that there is more sunlight in the evenings. Sunlight helps naturally reset your body clock. Letting natural light come into your bedroom in the morning also aids in greater alertness upon awakening.
- Exercise.
Being physically active is good for your health and it can help you sleep better, too. Go for a walk or run outdoors during daylight where you are exposed to natural sunlight. But try to avoid working out too close to your bedtime. It’s best if you can allow at least two hours to “cool down” from exercise before going to bed.
- Be mindful of what and when you eat and drink.
Eat dinner earlier in the evening to help your body prepare for bedtime. Try to avoid spicy or fatty foods, especially as bedtime is approaching. They can lead to indigestion and insomnia. Avoid caffeine and alcohol later in the day so you fall asleep more easily.
- Reduce screen time.
Television, tablets and phones may help you unwind for the evening, but they can stimulate your brain and actually make it harder to fall asleep. Try avoiding hand-held screens and computer displays at least two hours before bed, and avoid television at least an hour before bedtime.