Surviving Day Light Savings
November 4, 2019
Daylight Savings Time can be torture. If you are unfamiliar with it, Daylight Savings Time (DST) happens every fall and spring. The clocks are set back one hour (or forward like in spring) in order to make better use of sunlight. Unfortunately, this means that the sun appears to set earlier than it does the rest of the year.
For some people, the decrease in daylight can have a negative impact on their mood. It can even contribute to seasonal depression. Here are some tips and tricks on how to survive the change:
- Try A Light Box - Light boxes can be used as a form of light therapy for people battling Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). While they can be pricey, local health clubs often offer light-box rooms for people to use. It is important to follow the instructions in order to get the best results. Typically, people will sit in front of the light box for 30-60 minutes. This method can help compensate for the lack of daylight during the winter months.
- Absorb Real Sunlight - While the days may seem shorter, there is still plenty of sunlight during the daytime hours! If you can, try to go outside and soak up some rays. This could be during your lunch break at work, or in between classes. Even spending as little as 10-15 minutes in the sun can be beneficial to your mental and physical health! Soaking up these rays will supplement you with Vitamin D, which is known to help improve your overall health!
- Take a Vitamin D Supplement - If you are not able to soak up the sun, a Vitamin D supplement can help. Complications such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder have been linked to having a Vitamin D deficiency. Taking a supplement could help improve your emotional and physical health!
- Follow a Regular Sleep Schedule - Establishing a routine for your body works wonders! Going to sleep and waking up at the same time every day will help your body maintain regularity and homeostasis.
- Exercise - Moving your body is known to be the best way to improve your overall health. Optimally, you should exercise at least 30-60 minutes every day.
Daylight Savings Time can be tricky. These tips and tricks should help you through this cold and dark time! (: