We’re all looking forward to the long sunny days ahead, but that extra time in the sun doesn’t come without a cost. Springing forward into daylight saving time and losing an hour of sleep can have a significant impact on your overall health. Losing one hour doesn’t seem like much, but you can fall even further behind if you’re already not getting the recommended amount of sleep. Switching the clocks for daylight savings throws off your body's internal clock, not unlike jet lag. But it’s not all bad news. There are ways you can prepare for the change and brace your body for impact.
Fill Up Your Sleep Bank
Go into daylight savings weekend with a solid sleep base. If you’re already sleep-deprived, you’ll feel the effects of the change a lot harder. Getting seven to nine hours of sleep a night is crucial, especially leading up to the change.
Create Healthy Sleeping Habits
If you already don’t have a healthy sleep schedule, use this time to get back on track. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, limiting screen usage at night, and having a solid pre-bed routine that includes relaxation methods like meditating are great places to start.
Start Your Day With Sunshine
While your circadian rhythm will be off for a bit, starting the day with sunlight can help get your body’s clock better in tune with the sun’s clock. Even if you can’t go outside first thing in the morning, opening the curtains and letting the natural light in will help, too.
Watch What You Eat
Eating a healthy diet is tied to our quality of sleep. Filling up on nutritious foods, like fruits and veggies, will give the body what it needs for a better night’s sleep. Eat a few hours before bedtime, avoid heavy meals, and limit caffeine.
Get Comfy
What you wear to bed matters. Choosing pajamas you feel most comfortable in can make a difference in the length and quality of your sleep. Sleepwear made from breathable fabrics, will help regulate your body temperature and keep you from waking up in a sweat.
Make the jump into daylight savings easier on yourself by stocking up on sleepwear you can rest easy in.
