← NewsAll
Daylight Saving Time: 3 ways to reset your body's internal clock.
Summary
Daylight saving time begins March 8 and shifts clocks forward by one hour; the article lists three approaches—short afternoon naps, gradual earlier bedtimes, and morning light exposure—to help reset the body's circadian rhythm.
Content
Daylight saving time begins on March 8 and moves clocks forward by one hour, which reduces sleep for many people. That shift can delay the body's circadian rhythm, making mornings feel darker and evenings brighter. Research and expert commentary link the change to shorter sleep and to effects on mood, alertness and some health measures. The article describes three approaches that have been suggested to help the body adjust.
Reported approaches:
- The article notes that short, 20-minute afternoon naps can boost energy while longer naps may increase drowsiness.
- It reports that going to bed about 15 minutes earlier each night for the week before the time change can help the body shift earlier.
- The article says morning light exposure, including using a sunrise alarm clock, reduces melatonin production and can support daytime alertness.
- It notes avoiding alcohol and caffeine at least four hours before bedtime is recommended to protect sleep quality.
- The article cites a study finding the average person sleeps about 40 minutes less on the Monday after DST starts and mentions links between the shift and rises in certain accidents and health events, while also noting research reporting longer-term benefits such as reduced crime and estimated energy savings.
Summary:
The article presents simple behavioral approaches aimed at reducing sleep disruption from the one-hour shift. Most people will acclimate within a few days to a week, and the approaches reported are intended to smooth that adjustment.
