As we approach the second Sunday in March, many of us are eagerly anticipating the arrival of spring. The days are getting longer, the weather is getting warmer, and the flowers are starting to bloom. But with the change in seasons comes a change in time, as daylight saving time begins at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 8. This means that our clocks will “spring forward” to 3 a.m., giving us an extra hour of daylight in the evenings. But what exactly is daylight saving time and why do we have it? ABC News’ Dr. Tara Narula is here to explain everything you need to know about this annual time change.
Daylight saving time, also known as DST, is a practice of setting the clocks forward by one hour during the spring and summer months in order to make better use of natural daylight. It was first introduced in the United States in 1918 as a way to conserve energy during World War I. The idea was that by having more daylight in the evenings, people would use less artificial light and therefore save on energy costs. While the concept of DST has been around for over a century, it is still a topic of debate and confusion for many.
One of the main reasons for the confusion surrounding DST is that not all states in the US observe it. Currently, Arizona (with the exception of the Navajo Nation), Hawaii, and the overseas territories of American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands do not participate in daylight saving time. This can be confusing for those living in neighboring states or for those who travel frequently. However, for the majority of the country, daylight saving time is observed from the second Sunday in March until the first Sunday in November.
So why do we have to change our clocks twice a year? According to Dr. Narula, the main reason is to make better use of natural daylight. By setting the clocks forward in the spring, we are able to enjoy an extra hour of daylight in the evenings. This not only gives us more time to enjoy outdoor activities, but it also has potential health benefits. Studies have shown that exposure to natural light can improve mood, increase productivity, and even help regulate our sleep patterns.
However, the time change can also have some negative effects on our health. Many people struggle with the adjustment to the new time, experiencing fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and even changes in mood. This is especially true for those who already struggle with sleep disorders or have a disrupted sleep schedule. To help combat these effects, Dr. Narula recommends gradually adjusting your sleep schedule a few days before the time change. Going to bed and waking up 15 minutes earlier each day can make the transition smoother.
Another common concern with daylight saving time is the impact it has on our bodies’ internal clock, also known as our circadian rhythm. Our circadian rhythm is responsible for regulating our sleep-wake cycle and any disruption to it can have negative effects on our health. However, Dr. Narula reassures us that the body is able to adjust to the time change within a few days. It’s important to maintain a consistent sleep schedule and to expose yourself to natural light during the day to help your body adjust.
In addition to the potential health effects, daylight saving time also has an impact on our daily routines and schedules. Many people find it difficult to adjust to the new time, causing them to be late for appointments or miss important events. To avoid this, it’s important to remember to change all of your clocks, including those in your car and on your appliances. It’s also a good idea to double-check the time of any appointments or events you have scheduled for the day.
While daylight saving time may have its challenges, there are also many benefits to be gained from the extra hour of daylight. It allows us to spend more time outdoors, be more active, and enjoy the beauty of spring. It also serves as a reminder that warmer days are ahead and that summer is just around the corner.
So as we prepare to “spring forward” this Sunday, let’s embrace the change and make the most of the extra hour of daylight. Remember to adjust your sleep schedule gradually, expose yourself to natural light, and double-check your clocks. And let’s not forget to thank daylight saving time for giving us a little taste of summer in the midst of spring. Happy spring forward, everyone!