How To Beat The Effects Of Daylight Savings Time

The trees have dropped their leaves, the temperature is much colder and now daylight savings time is ending this weekend. This means that we will have to set our clocks back one hour on Sunday, November 3rd. 

The time change affects people differently, some people barely notice a difference while it can effect others drastically. It can lead to a number of sleepless nights because our internal clock is having difficulty adjusting.  

The sun will also be rising and setting an hour earlier than the day before, so that means we are losing an hour of daylight. This will make the days feel shorter and we will be exposed to less sunlight. So to help ease your transition to the time change we have listed a few ways to support your internal clock.

Get Sunlight After Waking

By exposing yourself to sunlight after waking this not only mimics sunrise, but it will gradually help you feel more awake. Bathing in sunlight also suppress the secretion of melatonin.

Take Vitamin D 

With the sun setting an hour early we will be exposed to less sunlight. The days will also feel shorter, so in order to combat this you can supplement with Vitamin D or increase your consumption of Vitamin D rich foods like mushrooms.

Use An Eye Mask 

Sometimes it can be difficult to fall asleep and a good way to ensure a light free space is to add a sleep mask. By eliminating any light that could disrupt your sleep, the complete darkness will boost your bodies melatonin production which can lead to a deeper, more restful sleep.

Soak In Epsom Salts 

Epsom salts are high in Magnesium, which is an essential mineral for sleep and stress management. Try having a foot soak 30-45 mins before bed time. The combination of the hot water and magnesium is the perfect way to relax and wind down before bed.

Don't Stay Up Later Than Usual 

Even though we are "gaining an hour of sleep" staying up later than usual will make it harder for your internal clock to adjust. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time that you were, prior to the time change.

We hope these tips can help you during the time change and get you back to the restful sleep that you need. However, if you are wondering why sleep is essential and how the lack of sleep can affect you, check out the link below for our article on the importance of sleep!

https://www.herbesthealth.com/blogs/news/why-sleep-is-so-important?_pos=4&_sid=055388bed&_ss=r