How to Bounce Back from Daylight Saving Time

by Lexi Petronis

CN Digital Studio
CN Digital Studio

I know, springing forward ultimately means we only lost one little hour--so it seems like it should be easy-peasy to get back on our feet. But--speaking as someone who somehow turned off her alarm during the night and overslept by exactly one little hour--it can mess with your sleep schedule. In fact, the effects of daylight saving time can be sort of like what you experience with jet lag: less energy, less mental alertness, overall feelings of tiredness.

Eventually, it all evens out as your body adjusts. But there are a few things you can do now to expedite that process--and stay as safe and healthy in the meantime.


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1: For the next week, try to get some immediate exposure to the sun in the morning--sit in front of the window while you have your breakfast, or go for a quick walk around the block. It helps your internal clock synchronize to the time change.

2: Leave extra time to get to wherever you're going so you can focus on defensive driving. Some people are going to be extra sleepy over the next few days, and their driving skills may not be top-notch; plus, other people may not have changed their clocks in their cars (or their houses!) yet, so they could be racing around in order to make up for it.

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3: Exercise! Working out releases serotonin, a brain chemical that can help our bodies adjust. Exercising outdoors can be especially helpful, as the sun can give the brain a serotonin boost too.

4: Don't nap. Long naps can mess with your sleep patterns for later in the night--possibly keeping you awake longer. If you must take an afternoon snooze, don't do it too close to bedtime, and keep it short--no more than 20 minutes.

5: Don't drink. Alcohol seems like it should help you sleep--and, at first, it does! But drinking can actually reduce REM sleep, which is thought to be the most restorative kind of sleep.

How are you feeling, post-daylight saving time?

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