How to Adjust to the Start of Daylight Saving Time

Daylight Saving Time 2024: How to Survive the Spring Forward and Why It’s Still a Thing

It’s that time of year again—spring forward, lose an hour of sleep, and wonder why we’re still doing this to ourselves. On Sunday, March 8, at 2 a.m., daylight saving time (DST) begins, and while we’ll enjoy longer evenings, our bodies might not be as thrilled about the abrupt time change. Here’s everything you need to know to adjust smoothly and understand the history behind this biannual ritual.

4 Ways to Adjust to Daylight Saving Time

1. Get Some Sun in the Morning

The start of DST means longer evenings, but it also disrupts our circadian rhythm. To reset your internal clock, spend time outside in the morning. Morning sunlight exposure helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle, making the transition easier. Even if it means adjusting your routine, a little morning sun can go a long way.

2. Slowly Shift Your Bedtime

Don’t wait until the night before to adjust. Start shifting your bedtime a week in advance by going to bed 15 minutes earlier each night. By the time March 8 rolls around, your body will be better prepared to handle the lost hour of sleep.

3. Try a Sleep Mask or Blackout Curtains

If you’re sensitive to light, consider using a sleep mask or blackout curtains. These can help you sleep through the brighter mornings and wake up on your own schedule, not the sun’s.

4. Set Your Clock the Night Before

Avoid the confusion and potential lateness by setting your clock forward the night before. This small step can help your body adapt to the new time with less disruption to your daily routine.

The History of Daylight Saving Time

The concept of daylight saving time was first proposed in 1895 by New Zealand entomologist George Hudson, who wanted more daylight hours to collect insects. However, it wasn’t implemented until World War I, when Germany adopted it to conserve electricity. The U.S. followed suit in 1918 but quickly repealed it in 1919 due to public dissatisfaction.

Since then, the U.S. has had a complicated relationship with DST. In 1966, President Lyndon Johnson signed the Uniform Time Act, standardizing the start and end dates for DST. Since 2007, most of the U.S. observes DST from the second Sunday in March to the first Sunday in November. However, states can opt out by passing legislation.

Which States Don’t Observe Daylight Saving Time?

Hawaii and Arizona (except for the Navajo Nation) don’t observe DST. Additionally, 47 other states have introduced bills to abolish the time change, but progress has been slow. Some advocate for permanent daylight saving time, while others, like the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, argue for year-round standard time. In 2022, the Senate passed the Sunshine Protection Act to make DST permanent, but it hasn’t been approved by the House.

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With these tips and a little preparation, you can make the transition to daylight saving time smoother and maybe even enjoy those longer evenings. Just don’t forget to set your clocks!

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