Preparing Your Body for Time Change
By Stephen R. Farris
There seems to be a lot of controversy surrounding daylight savings time. A lot more than usual, that is. Many folks are fine just the way it is, while others would like to see it done away with completely.
The bottom line, though, is the fact that each October and March our bodies either have to adjust to gaining an hour of sleep or losing an hour of sleep. For many, the transition is hard to get adjusted to.
We have to basically reset our bodies internal clock, so to speak. However, there are a few things you can do to prepare for each time change in advance, even if your work swing shift or rotating shifts and not just the twice a year for daylight savings time.
Going to Bed Early
Prior to the time change, try going to bed a little earlier at least a few days before setting your clocks forward. This technique works for the spring time change. On the Saturday before -- since you've adjusted to getting to bed early now -- reset your clocks earlier in the day. The change in October is not as bad, especially since you actually gain an hour of sleep.
Cut Back on Caffeine
Consuming beverages with caffeine late in the evening or before bedtime is never a good idea. Trying to adjust for time change, combined with caffeine intake, will make matters worse and it could take you several days or longer to transition. So make it a little easier on yourself and cut out the caffeine.
Electronic Devices
In this day and age, it's common for people to go to bed and lay there watching something on their laptop, smartphone or tablet. This keeps our minds going and if you have to get up early in the mornings, it can be hard to shut down the brain to get a good night's rest. So before you go to bed, shut off your phone -- if possible -- and turn off your laptop and tablet. Allow your mind to wind down so you may get a decent night's rest.
While these ideas can help your body adjust to daylight savings time changes, they can also be used if you happen to work rotating shifts, such as days to nights and vice-versa. It's worth a shot so you won't feel so drained and sluggish. If you have questions, talk with your local chiropractor. They may offer tips and suggestions that may help you get better rest and to help your body adjust to time change.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Pickerington, Ohio.