The clocks go forward this Sunday as we shift from Standard Time to Daylight Saving Time. Despite losing an hour of sleep, the changing of the clocks is actually good news for sleep health this spring and summer. Losing an hour’s sleep may cause temporary sleep deprivation, but when you look at the bigger picture, there are surprising sleep benefits associated with moving to Daylight Saving Time.
Light is the most powerful regulator of circadian rhythm. Longer daylight hours can boost mood, energy, and physical activity, which indirectly support sleep quality. Getting more sunlight is crucial for strengthening your internal clock, boosting daytime alertness, and improving nighttime sleep quality. With the actual sunset closer to bedtime, your body should get used to producing melatonin when you actually go to bed, rather than when you’re still ticking things off your to-do list.
Three Key Sleep Benefits
Longer daylight hours mean you’re more likely to be outdoors and active. Thanks to increased activity through the day, your body will have built up more sleep drive, making it easier to fall asleep. You may find yourself sleeping less after the clocks go forward and spring arrives, but research shows sleep duration can decrease in warmer months. Spending plenty of time outdoors in sunlight, particularly morning sunlight, helps regulate circadian rhythm, which means your body can consistently release melatonin through the night to maintain sleep.
Data released by Oura shows that the shift to Daylight Saving Time boosted users’ activity levels. An analysis of 100,000 U.S.-based members found that activity levels increased between March 9 and 15 compared to March 2 to 8. Average step count was up 2.84%, workout duration rose by 3.66%, and sedentary time decreased by 1.50%. A short period of adjustment is expected as the initial time change steals an hour of sleep, temporarily throwing off circadian alignment. But once the body adjusts, you can notice improved sleep efficiency.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://www.tomsguide.com/wellness/sleep/were-entering-the-best-time-of-year-to-fall-asleep-fast-and-stop-3-a-m-wake-ups-experts-reveal-the-3-surprising-benefits-of-the-clocks-going-forward