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4 Ways to Get More from the Time Change

Many Americans will be turning their clocks back one hour this month. As daylight savings time ends, the opportunities begin for getting more out of each day.

If you are ready to enjoy every minute worth of your additional hour, here are four easy ways to adjust to the time change:

• Get More Sleep:Don’t force your body to stay up late to adhere to the turned-back clock. Sleep is your body’s chance to HEAL. Reduced activity during sleep allows blood pressure and respiration to decrease, while digestion and cell repair increase. Why not use this extra hour to get the recommended seven to nine hours per night. For better sleep, we suggest limiting caffeine and alcohol in the evenings because they could stimulate the body. Also, be sure to avoid any large meals right before bed, which may hinder sleep. If necessary, seek the help of a qualified physician for any serious sleeping conditions affecting your sleep quality.
• Enjoy More Relaxation:Rather than going straight to bed or watching television, consider using the extra hour for deep relaxation. Meditate, read, listen to gentle music, or enjoy a warm bath to achieve peacefulness (it’s almost as good as sleep). Close the blinds, dim your clock lights, and turn off other light sources to optimize restful conditions throughout the night and into the morning hours when the early sun rises. You might also consider a new paint color for your bedroom, such as cool shades in blue, gray, or beige to create a more serene environment.
• Create More Organization: If you’ve been feeling as if there weren’t enough hours in the day to get things done, your prayers have been answered. November is your chance to reset daily rituals, shift to healthier eating schedules, and finally stick to bedtime schedules. A gradual adjustment in 15-minute increments to new schedules can help you ease into the time change if needed. Remember, the days ahead will be shorter and shorter, so plan accordingly to stay organized throughout fall and into the New Year.
• Participate in More Activities: Increasing physical activity during the day can both expel energy and alleviate stress. Fall is a wonderful time for outdoor adventures and exercise. Using the extra hour in the morning or evening to walk, run, or workout can add extra years to your life. Healthy activities throughout the day may also help you achieve better sleep at night.

The team at Eat, Heal, Travel hopes these tips help you “fall back” and enjoy a wonderful transition into the new season. We strive to inspire wellness in your life. Be sure to let us know via Twitter or Facebook how you cope with time changes.