Daylight Savoring Time
Here's how to soften the blow.
Genuinely thought that Daylight Savings Time would’ve been canceled by now.
Like so many other things, analyzing my genetic patterns validated for me that yes, I can personally get taken OUT by time changes. Whether traveling, a late night out or early morning, and especially these semi-annual shenanigans, I get hit a little harder and have to up the ante on self-care and strategy.
We’ve all probably heard to get as much sun as possible, and this one’s legit. Especially at sunrise and sunset, if possible— this is the fastest and most potent way to signal to your brain via your eyes (so skip the sunglasses this week, seriously) the new schedule. I spent the majority of the day yesterday outside, soaking up the gorgeous weather here in New Orleans.
It’s equally as important not to $%#* it up though, by watching tv or doomscrolling this week. If you must, it’s a great time to break out the amber-tinted glasses post-sunset, which makes the scroll sessions so much less stimulating.
The other thing that might need a shift: eating schedules. Yesterday I did a bit of an intermittent fasting day, with one main meal around 3pm. Today, I woke up hungry with the sun. Perfect! I had a heavier-than-usual breakfast and a dinner so early it might as well have been the Blue Plate Special— setting my digestive system up for a gentle break and also sparing metabolic impact of the time change by stopping eating at sunset. And, of course, stopping caffeine intake at a reasonable time. I am aiming to consume more matcha than coffee this week, for what it’s worth.
Sensorial experiences are dialed in, including lighting candles and slipping into a relaxing bath. Yup, I’m pulling out all the Sleep Stops this week.
Next on my list: reading a book. Like, an actual paper page-turner. Haven’t decided which one yet, so stay tuned— but honestly doesn’t really matter. Nothing makes me face plant faster than reading; is it just me?
These things certainly won’t always be perfect, but especially this week, it’s an A for Effort as my body adjusts.
Are you sensitive to shifts in circadian rhythm? Not sure? Look for SNPs in genes like CLOCK, PER2, ARNTL, TRCA 🧬 as well as several for melatonin production, response, and metabolism. I’m a great match and big fan of supplementing, especially this week when you need a bit more systemic support.
What else is on your list? What are you doing this week to move into Winter Mode?