How To Cope With The Upcoming Time Change
We don’t know how you feel, but we are dreading when the clocks change on March 12th for Daylight Saving Time. While we will enjoy the brighter and longer days, adjusting to the time change can be difficult for some, especially if you suffer from sleep apnea or struggle to get quality sleep. Daylight saving time is the practice of setting the clocks ahead by one hour from March through November. Read on for some tips to help you adjust to the time change.
Tips to Transition to Daylight Savings
When we lose an hour in March, it can be hard for some to get back on a regular sleep schedule. You may notice this in particular with children or if you suffer from sleep apnea or have difficulty sleeping. Even though it is only an hour, you may remember from previous years that it can be quite an adjustment to your body.
For patients with sleep apnea or sleep troubles, the adjustment to a new sleep schedule can be difficult. Here are some helpful tips that you can try to make the adjustment easier on your body:
- Several days before the time changes, begin to go to bed 15 minutes earlier than usual. Try to be well rested before the time change occurs.
- If you feel sleepy on the first day of the time change, Sunday, March 12th, take a short 15-20 minute nap early in the afternoon. Make sure that it is not too close to bedtime. Evaluate how you feel after the nap. If you are sluggish or have difficulty falling asleep that night, it is best to avoid naps.
- Avoid sleeping longer in the morning to compensate for the time change.
If you are being treated for sleep apnea and have any questions or concerns about your treatment plan, be sure to contact our office located in Silverdale, WA, and we will be happy to assist or answer any questions you may have.
