Staying Awake Through Daylight Savings Time

For many Americans, it can be hard to stay awake this time of year. With daylight sinking early on and colder weather keeping us indoors, folks simply don’t stay up as late as they do during the summer. Oftentimes there are even fewer activities from which you can stay busy, even furthering the need for an early bedtime. 

But is that such a bad thing? Everyone loves an extra hour of sleep here and there, why not strive to get to sleep earlier each and every night? It might not sound like a good plan in theory, but adjusting the body too often can actually mess up your sleep cycle(s). As well as training the body to become tired as soon as the sun sets. Which isn’t exactly pleasant when it sets at 5, nor in the summer months when it’s not dark until nearly 10 p.m.

In either scenario, it’s a good idea to “train” your body for bed. That way you’re in control of your own sleep schedule. And eventually, when you become tired. Though we’re all likely to have a day or too when our bodies just can’t feel awake, for the most part, setting one’s own sleep/wake routine will help you feel more alert. Even throughout Daylight Savings Time, when it’s darker than we want, earlier than we want. 

To set your sleep schedule, find a certain time at which you’d like to fall asleep each night. As well as a time you want to wake up. Then stick to it. The more you practice, the better your body will be at following orders. Next, avoid naps or “letting” yourself act sleepy throughout the day. These habits will only work to reverse your hard sleep-trained work. 

Following through, however, can help create a set routine. One that offers you more rest, and less hassle when falling asleep.