Every year when the end of daylight saving time rolls around, we all go through the same painful readjustment period. Feeling tired and groggy is no fun — and neither is finishing the workday to discover the sun's already down.
Instead of dreading the early sunsets, look at the time change as an opportunity to make a few tweaks to your daily routine. From practicing healthy bedtime habits to adjusting your outlook, here are a few simple things you can do to make the adjustment just a bit easier.
Embrace Earlier Mornings
When you turn the clock back an hour each fall, it might feel a little bit easier to wake up in the morning because you've gained an extra hour of sleep. Even if you're not usually a morning person, take this opportunity to enjoy a little extra free time before your day starts. Set aside half an hour to enjoy a cup of coffee (or tea) and read a magazine in your pajamas, or make yourself an extra-fancy breakfast just because.
Try Vitamin D Supplements
An earlier sunset means you're less likely to get your daily dose of vitamin D from the sun. That's why the fall is the perfect time to add a vitamin D supplement to your routine. In addition to helping maintain healthy bones, vitamin D can also support brain health. OLLY Hello Happy Gummy Worms ($20) use a combination of vitamin D and saffron — which can help boost serotonin — to support your mood. The fact that they're shaped like gummy worms is an added bonus.
Get Enough Physical Activity
Though waking up in the morning might feel a little easier, the end of daylight saving time can wreak havoc on your overall sleep cycle. Combat any potential disruptions by focusing on physical activity: studies have shown that exercise not only helps you fall asleep more easily, but also improves the quality of your sleep. And since exercise also releases feel-good endorphins, you'll be improving your mood while you're at it.
Practice Good Sleep Hygiene
Take the time change as an opportunity to reexamine your nighttime routine. Sticking to healthy pre-bedtime habits can keep your quality of sleep up year-round — daylight saving time or not. Avoid screens before bed: the blue light emitted by phones, tablets, and other electronics can disrupt your sleep cycle. Instead of scrolling through TikTok, opt for a calming activity like journaling or reading.
Challenge Yourself to Make the Most of It
Sure, it's never fun to end your workday and discover that the sun has already gone down — but why not take it as an opportunity to go all in on fall activities? Instead of dreading the darker evenings, indulge in cozy nights in. Plan a pajama-party movie night complete with hot apple cider and fresh popcorn, or challenge a few of your friends to a card-game tournament. Whether you choose Texas Hold 'Em or Go Fish is up to you.