As the clocks shift and we lose an hour of sleep, it’s tempting to pin fatigue and sluggishness on daylight saving time. However, our everyday health habits hold far more influence over our well-being. Emily Woll, director of operations at Fullcast, suggests, “Support your body’s transition with consistent hydration, balanced meals and prioritized sleep.” No matter the hour, it’s vital to maintain healthy routines year-round.
Surprisingly, despite associating various life issues with the clock change, daylight saving time actually offers several health perks. The additional hours of sunlight can boost mood and motivation for healthier living. There are opportunities to embrace nutritious diets and an active lifestyle, regardless of whether dusk arrives earlier or later in the day.
The advantages of extended daylight are numerous. Increased evening light encourages physical activity—many Americans gravitate towards exercise, sports, and outdoor pursuits after work. Yet, the CDC reports only 46.9% meet health guidelines for aerobic activity, suggesting millions are not exercising enough despite the opportunities provided.
Moreover, spending time online is taking over our lives. Americans, particularly teens, can sometimes scroll through social media for 2.5 hours daily, which can elevate stress and disrupt sleep. Luckily, natural sunlight can boost serotonin levels, combatting seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and enhancing mood—a perfect counter to virtual distractions.
While daylight saving time may disrupt sleep initially, traditional circadian rhythms can be positively affected by the longer evenings. A global sleep study noted that 62% of respondents reported poor sleep quality, attributable to stress and unhealthy habits. Regulating sleep means prioritizing routines that encourage relaxation while minimising those late-night cravings.
Ultimately, the clock isn’t the villain here—our habits are. Blaming losses caused by a shift in time won’t work if one remains tied to poor routines. To truly reset, one must focus on cultivating positive daily choices instead of allowing a mere time change to govern health decisions.
Daylight saving time is not responsible for health woes; rather, individual habits play a crucial role. Prioritising hydration, nutrition, and sleep can maintain well-being throughout the year. Although extended daylight encourages outdoor activities and improves mood, many still fail to meet fitness and sleep standards. The focus should be on adopting healthier routines, rather than blaming time changes for health issues.
In essence, while daylight saving time may seem like a culprit for fatigue, the true enemy lies in our daily habits. By fostering practices like hydration, balanced nutrition, and regular exercise, we can enhance our health irrespective of the clock. The real shift needed isn’t in the time; it’s in our lifestyle choices.
Original Source: www.heraldextra.com
