In the Spring, the clocks move ahead one hour and move back one hour in the Fall. According to the CDC, this time shift can take about one week for our bodies to adjust to a new schedule. Until you have adjusted you may experience trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or even waking up at the right time. Being sleep-deprived can be a major health risk and each year, there are reports of heart attacks and car wrecks during the week after the time changes in both the Spring and Fall. You can, however, acclimate by preparing a week and a half before the time change in the Spring and Fall.
Tips for the Time Change:
- Consider reducing demanding physical and mental tasks as much as possible the first week of the time change to allow yourself time to adjust.
- Be especially vigilant while driving since you or others may be sleepier and at risk of making a driving error that results in a wreck.
- For the springtime change, starting about 3 days before gradually move up the timing of waking and bedtime, meals, and exercise by 15-20 minutes earlier each day.
- For the Fall time change, starting about 3 days before gradually move up the timing of waking and bedtime, meals, and exercise by 15-20 minutes later each day.
- Make it a priority to get enough sleep and be well-rested several days before the time change.
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