Definitive Guide to Daylight Saving Time

Seize the day and seize the daylight. When the clock changes twice per year we lose and gain an hour of sleep. Of course, losing an hour of sleep is unpleasant but with some tricks and tips, you can navigate the choppy waters of DST (daylight saving time) and remain full of energy every day.   

The U.S. has been falling back and springing forward since 1918

How Did Daylight Saving Time Start?

The U.S. has been falling back and springing forward since 1918 and at 2 am on March 14, 2021, the tradition of daylight savings time continues and the clocks will spring forward by one hour. In the late 19th Century, Europe and the U.S. adopted daylight savings time changes to maximize productivity from daylight hours. The Standard Time Act that defines U.S. time zones was introduced alongside the daylight saving times change in 1918. 

Why Did Daylight Saving Time Start?

Daylight Saving Time (DST) was introduced to enhance productivity during daylight hours and save energy. In the late 19th Century, energy was heavily reliant on coal, having an extra hour of daylight to work meant consuming less energy. But, in modern times the energy-saving properties of DST are nominal. Observing Daylight Saving Time allows us to take advantage of an extra hour of sunlight in the evening for those in the Northern Hemisphere. Countries near the equator maintain a consistent sun position so do not need Daylight Saving Time DST. During the oil crisis in the 1970s, after WW1 and WW2, treasurys’ were almost empty. Implementing DST was somewhat beneficial then but now,  many countries are abolishing the practice entirely. In the United States, bills are introduced every year from States like California, Florida, Montana, Texas, and Nebraska who want to repeal the annual adjust to the time but with no success.  

When Does Daylight Saving Time Start and End?

Daylight Savings Time 2021 Around the World 

Is Daylight Savings Important for our Health and how Does it Affect Sleep?

Your circadian rhythm is set by your hormones and sunrise/sunset times. When Daylight Saving Time begins on March 14, 2021, at 2 am, the clocks spring forward by 1 hour. Daylight Saving Time ends on November 7, 2021, at 2 am when the clocks fall back by 1 hour. Ushering in fall and winter standard time. In the summertime, we relish that extra hour of sunlight but when that Sunday in November rolls around, we want to pull the covers over our head and not think about losing an hour of sleep.   

1 week before DST, start going to bed 15-30 minutes earlier

At that time of year when Daylight Saving Time Fall Back, the seasonal affective disorder is at its highest. Therefore, it is important to mitigate the negative effects of DST by being kind to yourself and preparing your schedule and body for the change. 

How to Prepare for Daylight Saving Time

• 1 week before DST, start going to bed 15-30 minutes earlier 
• Be consistent with your schedule 
• Avoid napping if possible or stick to short 20 minute naps only 
• Avoid caffeine after 1 pm 

Daylight Saving Time Sleep Tips

When the clocks back one hour it can make us a little grumpy. During this time, enjoy some comfort food and a little time curled up on the couch with a good book or favorite movie, easing yourself into fall and winter. Establishing a healthy bedtime routine is essential to physical health and mental wellbeing, whether you observe DST or not.

• Go to bed at the same time every night and get up at the same time every morning
• Have a wind-down well routine; 
• Turn off your cell phone 1 hour before bed
• Keep electronic devices out of your bedroom if possible, read paperbacks or magazines instead 
• Enjoy a hot bath or shower before bed to help you relax
• Do some light yoga or stretches 
• Ensure you have enough blankets to keep you warm and cozy   

Conclusion

If you are observing Daylight Savings Time 2021 it is important to get enough quality rest and be consistent with your sleep schedule. The Monday following daylight savings spring forward in March has been established as a high-risk time for heart attacks. The study noted an increase in heart attacks compared to the daily average when daylight saving time begins. Workers are more likely to have accidents following the time change and pets can be a little confused receiving their meals an hour later than normal. Sticking to your sleep schedule, eating well, and getting plenty of exercise and fresh air can help you get through Daylight Saving Time with ease.