On March 13, 2022 the clocks will spring forward an hour in many parts of Canada. Provinces and territories that observe daylight savings include Alberta, British Columbia (except some eastern regions), Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Nunavut (excluding Southampton Island), Ontario (excluding some northwestern regions), Prince Edward Island, Quebec (excluding eastern Quebec), and some parts of eastern and western Saskatchewan.

For most people, daylight savings means one less hour in bed. So, we’ve put together our top tips for coping with the change of hour and for optimizing your sleep throughout the year. 

What are the effects of losing an hour?

• A Swedish study found that the risk of having a heart attack increases in the three weeks following the time change.
• Increased tiredness is thought to be behind the uptick in traffic accidents and workplace accidents on the Monday following the time change.
• A study in Denmark found that the change to Daylight Savings Time can trigger mental illness, including depression and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

Aside from these more serious concerns, losing an hour just isn’t fun in general – especially when it’s on a Sunday. So, here are our top tips for adjusting to Daylight Savings.

How to adapt to Daylight Saving Time

• Prepare for the time change in the six days leading up to it by waking up 10 minutes earlier than usual each day.
• The day of the time change, eat a healthy breakfast. This tells your body it’s time to start the day.
• Begin the day with a walk outside. The combination of exercise and sunlight will help you to wake up.

Getting a good night’s sleep isn’t just important when the time changes, it’s an essential part of staying healthy year round. What’s more, those who don’t sleep well in general tend to find it hardest to adapt to Daylight Savings. So, below we’ve picked out our top products to help you get a good night sleep throughout the year.

Products to help keep your sleep on track

HoMedics SoundSpa Slumber Scent Ultrasonic Diffuser & Alarm Clock

This product works as an alarm clock, aromatherapy diffuser, and sound spa all in one to help you drift off and wake up with ease. Fall asleep to the scent of your favourite essential oils and six nature-inspired sounds including thunder, campfire, and ocean waves. These sounds can also be set to gently wake you up in the morning.

GRAVID 20lb Weighted Blanket

This 20lb weighted blanket helps relieve stress and create a sense of calm to lull you into a deep sleep.

Philips Somneo Sleep and Wake-Up Light

This product features a sunset simulation that helps you naturally drift off by gradually decreasing the light. In the morning, wake up with the simulated sunrise, which starts as a soft red glow and gradually gets brighter over the course of 30 minutes.

OBUSFORME 6-Way Adjustable Height Orthopedic Pillow

Get optimum neck support and comfort with this memory foam pillow that can be adjusted to suit your exact body type and sleeping style. 

MEDIFLOW Water Pillow with Memory Foam

This innovative pillow uses memory foam and water base technology to conform to the unique shape of your head and neck. Add more or less water for your chosen level of support, from soft to firm.

The information presented in this blog post is designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on any information on this post as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or as a substitute for professional counseling care. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional.

Resources

https://www.timeanddate.com/time/dst/daylight-saving-health.html

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/daylight-saving-time-affects-your-health-wellness/

https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/features/coping-with-time-changes