Daylight Savings Time Is Fast Approaching

This Sunday, clocks will "spring forward," signaling the start of Daylight Saving Time and the inevitable loss of one hour of sleep. While many are bracing for the disruption, opinions on DST are divided. Some people argue that the benefits of longer evenings and reduced energy usage outweigh the loss of sleep, while others question the necessity of the practice altogether. Local and government officials have weighed in on the issue, with some pointing to DST's advantages, such as extended daylight hours in the evening, which contribute to energy savings. Additionally, they argue that having more daylight in the evening can reduce health-related incidents by encouraging people to be more active.

However, sleep experts highlight the negative impacts of DST on human health, particularly the loss of sleep. An expert from Kaiser Fontana noted that humans spend about a third of their lives sleeping, making the disruption of our natural sleep cycle a serious concern. The shift can affect both mental and physical health, leading to increased fatigue, anxiety, and even more severe issues like impaired cognition, heart attacks, and strokes in the days following the time change. Studies have also shown an uptick in fatal car accidents and workplace injuries after DST begins.

To combat these effects, experts suggest that individuals start adjusting their sleep schedules a few days before the time change by going to bed 10-15 minutes earlier each night. This gradual adjustment minimizes the impact of losing an hour of sleep. Additional tips for mitigating the negative effects include exposure to sunlight in the morning, limiting screen time before bed, and avoiding excessive caffeine intake in the evening.

Despite the concerns, the debate about whether to eliminate DST entirely is ongoing. Even former President Trump weighed in, acknowledging the controversial nature of the practice, with opinions split on whether it should be abolished. For more information tune into NBC Palm Springs.