Was it hard to get up in the mornings this week? Did you feel sluggish and unproductive?
The last few days, my friends and students questioned…
Why do we do Daylight Saving Time anyway?
Is it for the farmers? Businesses? Kids at the bus stop?
I did a little research and here’s what I found:
Daylight Saving Time (DST) began in the U.S. in 1918, mainly for the purpose of energy consumption reducing the
In fact, the U.S. maintained DST year-round time during war times 1942-1945 and in the energy crisis years of 1974-1975.
Many in the U.S. are ready for the biannual changes to go away permanently.
There hasn’t been substantial proof of energy savings and farmers are generally not in favor, but there are economic benefits and an increase in spending when evening hours are extended. Morning darkness correlates with fewer pedestrian accidents and crime than evening darkness and the time change has been statistically proven to increase strokes, heart attacks, auto accidents and work-related injuries for up to a week. Most people hate the physical and mental disruption.
If this week has been hard on you, keep in mind there are things you can do to promote a better night of sleep.
Sleep hygien is included in
- Cool the room to 60 – 67 degrees at night
- No caffeine within 6 hours of bedtime
- No alcohol 3 hours before sleep
- Use soothing, calming music
- No TV or electronic screens at least an hour before bed
- Read a book or magazine to relax
- Journal about the day. Write about any concerns or worries
- Engage in pleasant conversation on the phone or with a partner
- Take care of apnea / snoring / snoring partner (sleep separately if needed)
Please share your thoughts in the comment box below.
Do you want our clocks to remain in Daylight Saving Time?
Did you feel the disruption this week?