6 Tips for Easing Into Daylight Saving Time

Daylight Saving Time (DST for the purposes of this blog)…the point of the year when we lose one precious hour of sleep, but get after-work sun. It’s a time of year when many of us brace ourselves for the disruption it brings to our sleep schedules and daily routines. The transition period can leave us feeling groggy and out of sync, even if we get the glorious benefit of a little more sunlight. But don’t worry, we’ve got a few simple strategies to minimize the impact of this time shift and make the transition a smoother one.

1. Gradual Adjustments:

Instead of waiting until the night before DST begins to adjust your clocks, start gradually shifting your schedule in the 4 or 5 days leading up to the change. Each day, go to bed and wake up about 15 minutes earlier, so that by the time DST arrives, your body will already be partially adjusted to the new time.

2. Stick to a Consistent Sleep Schedule:

You’ve heard it here before, but it’s always worth a reminder: Maintaining a regular sleep routine is crucial for overall sleep quality, but it becomes even more important during times of transition like DST. Aim to go to bed and wake up at around the same time every day, even on weekends, to help regulate your body's internal clock.

3. Prioritize Sleep Hygiene:

Good sleep hygiene practices can make a world of difference when it comes to adjusting to Daylight Saving Time. Create a relaxing bedtime routine to signal to your body that it's time to wind down. Limit exposure to screens before bed, as the blue light emitted by smartphones and computers can interfere with melatonin production and disrupt sleep. Cozy bedding also helps, and we’re obviously experts in that! 

4. Get Plenty of Sunlight:

Exposure to natural sunlight plays a crucial role in regulating our circadian rhythms, so make an effort to soak up some sunshine during the day, especially in the mornings if you can. Take a walk outside, open the curtains wide, or eat breakfast on the patio to help signal to your body that it's time to be awake and alert.

5. Limit Caffeine and Alcohol:

We know, we know. Sometimes caffeine and alcohol are just tough to avoid. But both caffeine and alcohol can interfere with sleep quality and exacerbate the effects of sleep deprivation. Our suggestion is to limit your intake, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime, to ensure that you're able to fall asleep and stay asleep more easily.

6. Be Patient and Kind to Yourself:

It's normal to experience some degree of fatigue during the transition period of DST. Be patient with yourself and give your body the time it needs to adjust. Practice self-care techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle exercise to help alleviate stress and promote relaxation. Any of your favorite healthy habits (and maybe an indulgence or two) will make things a bit easier. 

So there you have it! While Daylight Saving Time may bring about temporary disruptions to our sleep patterns and daily routines, with a little preparation and some mindful adjustments, you can navigate the transition with ease. By gradually shifting your schedule, prioritizing sleep hygiene, and taking care of your physical and mental well-being, you'll be better equipped to embrace the longer days and enjoy all that the season has to offer.