Happy Friday!
Today’s Fit Five Friday post is inspired from a recent conversation about Daylight Saving Time (DST) with my son who was bemoaning the lost of an hour’s sleep and how the time change really throws him off. I must admit that while I love that DST signals warmer weather and longer daylight hours are just around the corner, that “missing” hour can sometimes leave me feeling sluggish too.
Thankfully for my son, his spring break is next week so he can sleep in! But for the rest of us, I’m sharing five tips to help you smoothly transition to DST and hit the ground running (like what I did there?!)
Five Tips to Conquer Daylight Saving Time
1. Adjust your sleep schedule gradually. Try shifting your bedtime 10 – 15 minutes earlier each night starting tonight. This small change can help nudge your internal clock in the right direction without causing significant disruption to your weekend plans. Then you can continue to shift your bedtime into next week so your body can continue to adjust to the the DST time change.
2. Embrace the sunshine. Light exposure plays a crucial role in regulating your sleep-wake cycle. In the mornings after DST, get outside for a short walk or run as soon as possible. Sunlight helps suppress melatonin production and wakes you up naturally.
3. Stick to your routine. Consistency is key when it comes to sleep regulation. As much as possible, maintain your regular sleep and wake times, even on weekends. This will help your body stay on track and minimize daytime fatigue.
4. Prioritize pre-bedtime relaxation. Create a calming bedtime routine to wind down and signal to your body that it’s time for sleep. Take a warm bath, read a book, or practice gentle yoga or meditation. Be mindful of late day caffeine consumption and minimize using electronic devices before bed – the blue light emitted from these screens can be a sleep disruptor.
5. Be patient. It takes time for your body to fully adjust to the time change. Don’t be discouraged if you experience some initial sleepiness or fatigue. Remember, listening to your body is key!
Do you struggle with the DST time change? What other tips would you share?
Welcome to Fit Five Friday!
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