News
November 01, 2025
Consistent routines combat Daylight Savings fatigue, sleep expert says
CADILLAC — As clocks turn back for Daylight Saving Time, a local sleep expert with Munson Healthcare is sharing advice to avoid fatigue and adjust more easily to the darker days.
**Consistent routines combat Daylight Savings fatigue, sleep expert says**
CADILLAC — The return of Daylight Saving Time this weekend brings the familiar groans of disrupted sleep schedules and the dreaded "Daylight Saving fatigue." As clocks turn back an hour, many will find themselves struggling to adjust to the sudden shift in daylight and darkness. But according to a local sleep expert at Munson Healthcare, establishing consistent routines is key to mitigating the negative effects and making a smoother transition.
The sleep expert emphasizes that the body's internal clock, or circadian rhythm, thrives on predictability. Disrupting this rhythm, even by just an hour, can lead to feelings of sluggishness, decreased alertness, and difficulty concentrating. This disruption can impact everything from work performance to overall mood.
"The secret to navigating the time change is all about consistency," explains the expert. "Our bodies are wired to follow patterns. The more consistent you are with your sleep-wake cycle, meal times, and even your exercise routine, the easier it will be to adapt."
The Munson Healthcare expert recommends sticking to a regular sleep schedule, even on weekends. Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day helps regulate the body's natural sleep-wake cycle. Creating a relaxing bedtime routine, such as taking a warm bath or reading a book, can also signal to the body that it's time to wind down.
Furthermore, the expert suggests paying attention to light exposure. While the return of standard time brings darker evenings, making an effort to get sunlight exposure during the day can help regulate the circadian rhythm. Even a short walk outside during daylight hours can make a significant difference.
Finally, the expert advises being mindful of caffeine and alcohol consumption, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime. These substances can interfere with sleep and exacerbate the effects of Daylight Saving Time fatigue. By prioritizing consistent routines and healthy habits, individuals can minimize the impact of the time change and enjoy a more restful transition into the darker months.
CADILLAC — The return of Daylight Saving Time this weekend brings the familiar groans of disrupted sleep schedules and the dreaded "Daylight Saving fatigue." As clocks turn back an hour, many will find themselves struggling to adjust to the sudden shift in daylight and darkness. But according to a local sleep expert at Munson Healthcare, establishing consistent routines is key to mitigating the negative effects and making a smoother transition.
The sleep expert emphasizes that the body's internal clock, or circadian rhythm, thrives on predictability. Disrupting this rhythm, even by just an hour, can lead to feelings of sluggishness, decreased alertness, and difficulty concentrating. This disruption can impact everything from work performance to overall mood.
"The secret to navigating the time change is all about consistency," explains the expert. "Our bodies are wired to follow patterns. The more consistent you are with your sleep-wake cycle, meal times, and even your exercise routine, the easier it will be to adapt."
The Munson Healthcare expert recommends sticking to a regular sleep schedule, even on weekends. Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day helps regulate the body's natural sleep-wake cycle. Creating a relaxing bedtime routine, such as taking a warm bath or reading a book, can also signal to the body that it's time to wind down.
Furthermore, the expert suggests paying attention to light exposure. While the return of standard time brings darker evenings, making an effort to get sunlight exposure during the day can help regulate the circadian rhythm. Even a short walk outside during daylight hours can make a significant difference.
Finally, the expert advises being mindful of caffeine and alcohol consumption, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime. These substances can interfere with sleep and exacerbate the effects of Daylight Saving Time fatigue. By prioritizing consistent routines and healthy habits, individuals can minimize the impact of the time change and enjoy a more restful transition into the darker months.
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