Are you dreading the time change coming up Sunday?
It isn’t as fun as “Fall Back” is it? Nope, we LOSE an hour of much needed sleep!
How does this affect our health?
Let me share 3 ways Spring Forward can negatively affect your health.
1. Irritability, low mood.
When you are deprived of sleep, it can result in crankiness, depression, and that “blue” feeling. If you struggle with SAD (seasonal affective disorder) than this can be even stronger for you. Most likely you have spent the winter indoors and were not getting enough sunshine. Maybe you leave for work in the dark and drive home in the dark. I know how this impacted my mood for years while I had some similar wonky hours where this was the case for me.
2. Sleepiness.
It may be a no brainer but losing an hour adds up over the course of a week right? So if you are doing your same routine, then that loss of time can keep you in a state of fatigue. Just going through your day doing the best you can. Maintaining. It adds up over time.
3. Increased risk of stroke and heart attacks.
Heart attacks are more prevalent with the spring forward time change but strokes were 8% higher in the first few days for both time changes.
Sleep is so vital for our overall health!
So how can you make this transition a little easier on yourself?
- Go to bed 10-15 minutes later each night leading up to the time change to help your body adjust.
- Get out in the sunshine even if only for 15 minutes on your lunch break.
- Cut out that 2nd (or 3rd) cup of coffee. Especially avoid caffeine in the afternoon when you have a little slump. Reach for green tea (less caffeine) or peppermint herbal tea for a natural boost. (hint, getting that quick walk at lunch helps the afternoon slump beautifully!)
- Once the clock officially changes on Sunday, maintain a regular bedtime routine going forward. Make this a priority. Going to bed and waking at the same times helps your body’s circadian rhythm.
Sleep is one of the many topics we address and get clarity over in my Autoimmunity & Lifestyle Restoration Program.
I don’t say this lightly – this program is THE most comprehensive Lifestyle Restoration program in the market! Get in now and receive Lifetime access to ALL the modules and tools!
If you want in, message me: michelle@treasuredwellness.com & I will message you with the next steps!
In great health,
Michelle