Spring is kind of officially here and it’s time to start enjoying the brighter mornings and longer evenings. With #BritishSummerTime not far away, now is the time to get ready for the clocks going forward. The shift to British Summer Time means that the days are getting longer – but switching clocks also mean one hour less under the bed covers.
In 2020 the move forward will take place on Sunday the 29th of March, so while it will cut into your lie-in you won’t have to worry about missing a morning meeting. When we spring forward to daylight saving time, we lose an hour of sleep. Most of us feel the effect for a few days afterwards.
“A few tweaks to your routine – like putting your alarm clock out of reach – can help you start the day with more energy and a better outlook.”
Gradually Transition Into the Time Change
To minimise the impact of the switch to daylight saving time, make gradual adjustments. Go to bed 15 minutes early, starting several days before the change. Make an extra effort to be well-rested the week before the time change.
Give Yourself a Sleep Break After the Time Change
If you feel sleepy after the change to daylight saving time, take a short nap in the afternoon — not too close to bedtime. Avoid sleeping in an hour longer in the mornings. Your internal clock will adjust on its own in several days.
Know-How Much Sleep You Need
Not everyone needs the same amount of sleep to be well-rested, and sleep requirements can change with age. To find your ideal number of hours, sleep without an alarm on weekends and see when you wake up naturally.
Keep Regular Sleep Hours
Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. This helps your body regulate its sleep pattern and get the most out of the hours you sleep. If possible, wake up at the same time on the weekends, too, which makes Monday mornings easier to bear. You can also see how a nap affects your sleep quality. For some, napping can make nighttime sleeping harder; but for others, a short nap (20 minutes) can be revitalising, without ruining their night’s sleep.
Get Some Exercise During the Day
Even moderate exercise, such as walking, can help you sleep better. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, three times a week or more. If you often don’t sleep well, try not to exercise too close to bedtime.
Avoid Stimulating Substances
Alcohol and caffeine (found in coffee, tea, chocolate, and some pain relievers) can interfere with sleep. If you have trouble sleeping, avoid alcohol and caffeine for 4 to 6 hours before bedtime. Smokers should also avoid tobacco, another stimulant, too close to bedtime.
Eat Lightly at Night
Indigestion from spicy or fatty food or having too much food in your stomach can cause insomnia. For a better night’s sleep, eat light, simple foods several hours before bed.
If you get hungry, have a snack of easy-to-digest food such as carbohydrates or dairy. Also, avoid too much liquid before bed so that you don’t have to wake up to go to the toilet.
Relax Before Bed
Stress and over-stimulation can make it hard to fall asleep. Try to avoid intense television programs or movies before bed. Relax with a soothing, warm bath and curl up with a book instead.
Worry boosts production of the stress hormone cortisol, which makes you more alert. If anxiety keeps you awake, write out your schedule for the following day before going to bed, including possible solutions to challenges you may face.
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If you’re worried about hitting a deadline the next day, go to bed early and wake up early to work. Don’t work late into the night. Your mind needs the rest. You may even need less time to finish your work.
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Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment
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