Daylight Savings Time: What It Is, Why It’s Problematic, and How to Cope

Each spring and fall, many of us adjust our clocks forward or backward by an hour for daylight savings time (DST), a practice that dates back over a century. Originally intended to save energy and make better use of daylight, DST has since become a source of disruption and health concerns.

What is Daylight Savings Time?
Daylight savings time shifts the clock to extend evening daylight in spring and summer by moving the clock forward one hour, then moves it back in fall to standard time. The idea was that more daylight during waking hours would reduce energy use and increase productivity.

Why Daylight Savings Time Can Be Harmful
Despite good intentions, DST can upset our natural circadian rhythms—the internal clocks that regulate our sleep-wake cycles. This disruption can lead to sleep loss, increased risk of heart attacks, mood disturbances, and reduced cognitive function. Studies show that the abrupt time change is linked with spikes in accidents and workplace injuries immediately after the switch.

What Should We Do Instead?
Many experts advocate for abolishing daylight savings time altogether, keeping our clocks on permanent standard time, which aligns better with our natural light cycles. Some countries and states have started moving toward this, recognizing the health benefits.

How to Combat the Negative Effects Until We Stop Doing It
While we wait for widespread change, here are some tips to minimize DST’s impact:
1. Prioritize Sleep: Try to maintain consistent sleep schedules, even on weekends, and if you're a night owl, get in bed a little earlier.
2. Get Morning Light: Exposure to natural light in the morning helps reset your internal clock and eases the adjustment.

3. Breathe With Your Mouth Closed: Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, can help manage anxiety and increase focus.
4. Limit Evening Screen Time: Blue light from devices can further disrupt sleep, so reduce usage before bed.
5. Stay Active: Regular movement supports your body’s rhythms and can improve sleep quality.
6. Mind Your Diet: Avoid caffeine and heavy meals close to bedtime to encourage restful sleep.

DST’s health and safety concerns are real, but with care and awareness, we can ease its impact on our bodies until we create more permanent solutions.