Tips for adjusting to time changes
Daylight Saving Time will be ending soon, and the days will continue to get shorter as we move closer to December 21. Few people relish this time change as it takes days for our bodies to adjust to “falling back” (or “springing forward” in March.) For most people, the disorientation and fatigue dissipate in just a few days, but for others, the feeling of perpetual jetlag lasts much longer. How can you deal with seasonal time changes without feeling wiped out? Here are a few tips.
Don’t alter your sleep patterns
Continue to go to bed and wake up at the same time you do during Daylight or Standard Time. You may not experience restful sleep for a few days, but your body’s rhythms will eventually adjust.
Napping
The jury is out on this one. Some studies claim that taking a catnap during the day will help you catch up on your rest, while others take the stand that sleeping during the day will further disrupt your nighttime sleep. The best advice is to do what your body asks of you. If you feel sleepy during the day, by all means, take a short nap, especially if you are used to napping.
Get more sunlight
This sounds counterintuitive during Standard Time in the winter, but if you can, try to get outside during the brief bouts of sunshine. Instead of working out in the gym, take a walk. Open your drapes and let sunlight flood your living space. If you have seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or just aren’t exposed to much natural light, invest in a light box, which you can readily find online.
Eat a balanced diet
While it’s tempting to soothe yourself with carbs and sugar when you’re feeling out of sorts, try to limit your consumption. Instead, stick to a high-protein diet and make sure you stay hydrated. Too many carb and sugar calories will make you feel sluggish and cause a blood sugar crash.
Exercise
Even if you don’t feel like it, try to sneak some exercise into your day. If you can’t sleep, hit the gym or take a walk in the morning before work, or take a short walk during your lunch break. You will feel better, especially if you are outdoors in fresh air and sunshine. Exercise will also naturally tire you out, so you’ll sleep better.
Until a congressional decision is made about the fate of permanent Daylight Saving Time or Standard Time, we’re stuck with it twice a year. Try not to stress about it and do what you can to minimize the effects. Just know that the transition is short-lived and you’ll get through it like you always do.
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