Don’t let the end of daylight saving time disrupt your sleep schedule.
This Sunday, November 3, daylight saving time will end, and the sunrise and sunset times will “fall back” by one hour. Most people struggle during the start of daylight saving time in spring when they lose an hour in their day, but setting your clocks back an hour can also disturb your sleeping habits and your body’s clock for that week. However, there are a few actions you can take to keep your body’s rhythms regular after the upcoming end of daylight saving time.
What is Your Circadian Rhythm?
The reason daylight saving time confuses us is because it disturbs our circadian rhythm. A body’s circadian rhythm is an internal clock that manages our sleep-wake cycle. It is what ensures that we are alert in the morning and tired by our bedtime. Circadian rhythms work well when you maintain a routine and stable sleep habits. Whenever there are rhythm disruptions, your sleep will likely be disrupted, as well.
Maintaining your sleep rhythms and habits is essential because, without sleep, we crave unhealthy foods and are less likely to exercise. Lack of sleep also weakens your immune system and can affect your overall mood.
Avoid Electronics Before Bed
As always, for a good night’s sleep, it is suggested that you turn off all electronics an hour before going to bed. Writing emails or reading messages on your computer or phone before bed keeps your mind stimulated and alert when you should be resting. Additionally, the blue light emitted from the screens tricks your brain into thinking it’s daytime.
Drink Caffeine in Moderation
Avoid caffeine after lunchtime, as the effects can linger for many hours and can prevent you from falling asleep at night. Even drinking caffeine six hours before you go to sleep can cost you an hour of rest.
Ease Into The Daylight Saving Time Change
The first day daylight saving time ends, you are essentially going to sleep an hour earlier than you usually would. If this is difficult for you, and you find that you have trouble falling asleep, some experts recommend shifting your bedtime by 15 minutes each night until you are back to feeling ready for sleep at your usual bedtime.
Stick to a Sleep Schedule
Once you have found a waking and sleeping time that works best for you, you should make a point to go to sleep and wake up at those times every day. If you can’t do it every day, get as close as you can. Also, “gaining” an hour with the end of daylight saving time does not mean you should stay up an hour later.
Don’t Take Long Naps
If you are feeling groggy during the middle of the day, you can take a nap, but don’t sleep too long; otherwise, you can upset your circadian rhythm. If you take a long nap and are then unable to sleep at night, it will take a few days at least to correct your body’s rhythms.
Sleep Well With A Mattress From All American Mattress
At All American Mattress, we have the expertise and great prices to help you choose the perfect pillows and foam mattress for your bedroom. We have mattresses and bed frames available made from a variety of materials to suit your needs, whatever they are. Stop by our showroom, visit us online, or give us a call at (410) 451-9006 to see how we can get your toddler sleeping through the night. We offer brand names at affordable prices, and we will always work hard to keep your whole family comfortable. For more mattress shopping tips, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.