Time Change: When To Set Clocks Back

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Post on Oct 28, 2024

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Time Change: When To Set Clocks Back and Why We Do It

Ugh, time change – the dreaded biannual event that throws our sleep schedules and social lives into disarray. Every year, we have to deal with the hassle of setting our clocks forward in the spring and back in the fall. But why do we even bother with this antiquated practice?

The idea behind daylight saving time (DST) is to make better use of daylight hours. The theory is that shifting the clock forward an hour in the spring means more daylight in the evening, which is supposed to save energy and reduce traffic accidents. However, the actual impact of DST on energy consumption and traffic safety is a matter of debate. Some studies suggest that DST does save energy, but others say it doesn't have a significant impact.

But the real impact of time change is on our bodies. That extra hour of sleep we get in the fall can feel glorious at first, but it throws our circadian rhythm out of whack. Many people experience a "jet lag" feeling for days after the time change, which can lead to fatigue, irritability, and trouble concentrating.

So, when do we actually set our clocks back? The answer is a little more complicated than you might think. In the US, daylight saving time ends on the first Sunday in November. This year, that's November 5th, 2023. At 2:00 AM local time, clocks are set back to 1:00 AM.

While many people hate daylight saving time, there's also a passionate group that supports it. They argue that it's good for the economy and for public safety. But whether you love it or hate it, one thing's for sure: time change is a disruption that affects us all.

If you're struggling with the effects of time change, there are a few things you can do to help yourself adjust. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends. Avoid caffeine and alcohol in the evening. And get some exercise during the day to help regulate your sleep cycle.

You might be wondering if time change is going away for good. It's a hot topic in politics and there have been movements to abolish it. So far, no federal legislation has been passed to permanently end DST, but it's a possibility for the future. Until then, we'll continue to deal with the joys (or frustrations) of adjusting our clocks twice a year.