It’s Spring, and that means it is time for the annual changing of the clocks. As we look ahead to Daylight Savings Time beginning this weekend, many people dread the disruption to the sleep schedule and darker mornings. Here are a few tips to minimize the frustration and maximize the time change.

Adjust Your Sleep Schedule Early

Try going to bed just 15 minutes earlier a few days leading up to the time change. This small gesture can help ease the transition, making it easier when you lose that hour of sleep later.

Expose Yourself to Daylight

The more sunlight you get during the day, the better your body is prepared for sleep at night. Exposure to natural light helps regulate your body's circadian rhythm, making it easier to fall asleep when darkness arrives.

Set Your Body Up for Success

Sleep is just one part of caring for our bodies. We do better with physical body changes when we attend to multiple aspects – including nutrition and exercise. Spend the next few days focused on nutrient-rich foods and physical exertion, which will help you feel your best, and help you sleep better through the night.

Enjoy the Extra Evening Light

The perk to daylight savings? That precious evening light. Soak up the extra hour of sunlight in the evening by taking an after-dinner walk, sitting on your porch or patio or heading to your nearest green space. 

For those caring for children during this time change, these same tips apply! Find that extra sleep where you can, and enjoy the changing weather and daylight patterns.