Countdown to daylight saving time: Are you ready for the time change?

What is daylight saving time?

Daylight saving time (DST) is the practice of advancing clocks by one hour during warmer months so that evenings have more daylight and mornings have less.

When does daylight saving time start and end?

In the United States, DST begins on the second Sunday of March and ends on the first Sunday of November. This year, DST will begin on March 12, 2023, and end on November 5, 2023.

What are the benefits of daylight saving time?

There are several benefits to DST, including: * Increased evening daylight: DST gives us an extra hour of daylight in the evenings, which can be used for outdoor activities, socializing, or simply enjoying the outdoors. * Reduced energy consumption: DST can help reduce energy consumption by reducing the need for artificial lighting in the evenings. * Improved mood and well-being: Some studies have shown that DST can improve mood and well-being by increasing exposure to sunlight.

What are the drawbacks of daylight saving time?

There are also some drawbacks to DST, including: * Disrupted sleep: DST can disrupt sleep patterns, especially in children and the elderly. * Increased risk of accidents: DST has been linked to an increased risk of accidents, including car accidents and workplace accidents. * Health problems: DST can also lead to health problems, such as fatigue, headaches, and digestive problems.

How to prepare for the time change

If you are not used to DST, there are several things you can do to prepare for the time change: * Adjust your sleep schedule gradually: In the days leading up to the time change, start going to bed and waking up 15-30 minutes earlier each day. This will help your body adjust to the new time. * Get plenty of sleep: Make sure to get plenty of sleep on the night before the time change. This will help you avoid feeling tired and groggy the next day. * Avoid caffeine and alcohol: Caffeine and alcohol can interfere with sleep, so it is best to avoid them on the night before and the day of the time change. * Be aware of the increased risk of accidents: Be extra careful when driving or operating machinery on the day of the time change, as there is an increased risk of accidents.

The bottom line

DST is a controversial topic, with both benefits and drawbacks. If you are not used to DST, it is important to prepare for the time change to minimize the potential negative effects.