Twice a year, we change our clocks for daylight saving time, which starts with a "spring forward" and ends with a "fall back." On March 12 at 2 a.m., daylight saving time begins, and we move our clocks ahead by one hour to 3 a.m.
This biannual time change was originally intended to optimize daylight hours, save energy, prevent traffic accidents, and reduce crime. However, research suggests that the time change can have unintended short and long-term health consequences.
The main concern related to time change is that it can disrupt our body's circadian rhythm, which is the internal schedule our body follows to maintain regular bodily functions, such as sleeping, metabolism, and heart function. A disruption to our daily patterns can trigger stress in our brains, leading to sleep deprivation, disorientation, depressive episodes, and even memory loss. These symptoms can result in difficulties with learning, social interactions, and overall cognitive function.
Studies show the risk of having a heart attack increases in the first three weekdays after the springtime change. Tiredness is also thought to be the leading cause for an increase in traffic accidents and workplace injuries the Monday following the start of daylight saving time.
The good news – the disruptions usually pass within a few days.
Here are a few tips to make the transition easier:
1. Start the day with a healthy breakfast first thing in the morning. Food tells your body it is the start of the day.
2. Prioritize daylight exposure. Go for a walk outside; sunlight and exercise help realign the body clock.
3. Consider relaxation techniques to calm your mind and body and make it easier to smoothly transition into sleep at night.
4. Help yourself, and your children adjust by gradually going to bed a little earlier each day.
5. Take a short nap during the day, if necessary.
6. Don't forget about your pets, as the time change can also be confusing. That is mainly caused by our schedule changes, so a suddenly shifted feeding time or potty break could lead to an upset stomach or accidents in the house. Over the next few days, gradually change your pet's feeding and walking schedule by 15 minutes daily rather than all at once.
Some of us love the time change, while others despise it. Regardless of how you feel about it, it is here again, and we can all do our best to make the transition as smooth as possible.