It’s the time of year we loathe: turning the clock ahead one hour for daylight saving time. That’s set for tomorrow night, and you’re not alone if you find the shift a challenge.
Experts including sleep specialist Dr. Ofer Jacobowitz say this weekend can be difficult for many people. Can you “catch up” on that missed sleep? Not exactly, but taking short naps will help.
Dr. Jacobowitz also says spending more time exposed to daylight will help you adjust to the time change because it helps adjust your awake and sleep cycle. He adds getting enough sleep is critical to having good overall health.
Other tips to help you survive daylight saving time:
- Eat Dinner Early - Our sleep cycle is dependent on our eating schedule so eat an hour earlier so that you can adjust to the earlier bedtime.
- Take an Afternoon Nap - If you know you're not going to go to bed earlier, then take a nap during the day to help you adjust.
- Avoid Screens Before Bed - While this has been recommended for years, it's even more important now when you're already losing an hour of sleep.
- Don't Sleep In - As tempting as it is, don't sleep in. If you awaken at your normal time it will be easier for you to adjust on Monday.
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