Still dragging from the time change? Here are some tips to get back on track.
Many Americans have trouble adapting to the “spring forward” part of Daylight Saving Time. Even if you adjust pretty quickly to the lost hour of sleep, young children and pets are notorious for being slow to adapt—and every cat owner knows that means trouble.
If you’re still feeling the impact of Daylight Saving Time, here are some tips for getting you (and your household) back on track.
Rethink Your Sleep Routine
Daylight Saving Time is a great excuse to check on your sleep habits. You know the drill: limit your caffeine in the afternoons and put down your screens at least 30 minutes before bed. (Visit the American Academy of Sleep Medicine for more healthy sleep habits.)
If you don’t already have a bedtime routine, start simple. Get ready for bed and wind down with something that relaxes you, such as reading or listening to soft music. Your internal body clock will thank you!
Lose the Snooze Bar
Now that you have a sleep routine, do your best to stick to it. Yes, it’s very tempting to sleep in on the weekends, but you’ll rest better during the week if you stick to your schedule. Still skeptical? Consider giving it a try this weekend and see how you feel Monday morning.
After losing an hour last weekend, you can use the extra morning time to recharge and plan your day.
Light Up Your Life
Many of us get so caught up in the lost hour of sleep that we forget about the positive—more daylight! Take advantage of the extra hour of sunlight to get some fresh air, whether that means taking a walk, doing yard work, or just enjoying time with family. You’ll probably find that this helps you sleep better, too.
