As the clocks prepare to “fall back” on November 2, marking the end of Daylight Saving Time (DST), many people are bracing themselves for the inevitable disruption to their sleep patterns and daily routines. This move reflects broader industry trends towards reevaluating the effectiveness of DST, with some politicians pushing to abolish the time change altogether. The Uniform Time Act of 1966, which standardized DST across the US, has been the subject of much debate, with proponents arguing that it helps reduce energy consumption and opponents claiming that it has negative impacts on human health.

The time change, which will occur at 2 a.m. local time on Sunday, November 2, can have significant effects on our bodies, particularly for those who already struggle with sleep. According to Joseph Dzierzewski, senior vice president of research and scientific affairs at the National Sleep Foundation, “There’s a mismatch between the outside world and our internal clocks during daylight saving time that can result in some negative health consequences.” These consequences can include increased risk of cardiovascular events, drowsy driving, and mental health concerns.

Some countries, like Arizona (except for the Navajo Nation) and Hawaii, have opted out of DST altogether, citing the negative impacts on their residents’ health and productivity. Similarly, some experts, including Dzierzewski, advocate for permanent standard time, arguing that it is better for human biology. As Dzierzewski notes, “Part of the issue is that people associate daylight saving time with summer. People love summer, right? But the simple fact of the matter is, it would still be summer if we were on permanent standard time.”

In recent years, there have been efforts to end the time change, including the bipartisan Sunshine Protection Act, which would have made DST permanent. However, these efforts have been met with resistance, and the debate continues. As Sen. Edward Markey of Massachusetts notes, “It isn’t just a nuisance – changing our clocks also has a very real impact on our economy, our health, and our happiness.”

So, how can you adjust to the time change and minimize its impact on your sleep and daily routine? Experts recommend establishing a consistent sleep schedule, exposing yourself to bright light in the morning, and engaging in physical activity during the day. Additionally, gradually adjusting your bedtime and wake-up time in the days leading up to the time change can help your body adapt.

As the clocks prepare to “fall back,” it’s essential to remember that this is an opportunity to reevaluate our sleep habits and make positive changes. By prioritizing sleep health and taking steps to mitigate the effects of the time change, we can emerge from the darkness of winter feeling more rested, refreshed, and ready to take on the new season.

Source: Official Link