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Daylight Saving Time Ends Soon: Clocks to 'Fall Back'

History and Benefits of Daylight Saving Time

Daylight saving time (DST) in the United States typically begins in March and ends in November. Many people refer to the time change as “springing forward” in the spring and “falling back” in the fall.

DST was first implemented in the US during World War I as a way to conserve energy. By moving clocks forward one hour in the spring and back one hour in the fall, we get an extra hour of daylight in the evenings, which can lead to reduced energy consumption for lighting and heating.

Today, DST is used in most parts of the United States, as well as in many other countries around the world. In the US, the exact dates for DST are set by federal law and vary slightly from year to year. In 2023, DST will begin on March 12 and end on November 5.

Pros and Cons to “Falling Back”

Pros

• More daylight in the evenings, which can lead to increased outdoor activity and social interaction.
• Reduced energy consumption by utilizing natural light.
• Improved mood and well-being due to increased exposure to sunlight.

Cons

• Can disrupt sleep patterns, especially for young children and the elderly.
• Increased risk of car accidents due to reduced visibility in the morning.
• Can interfere with certain medical treatments and medications.

Tips for Adjusting to the Time Change

Here are some tips to help you adjust to the time change:

• Gradually adjust your sleep schedule in the days leading up to the time change. Go to bed and wake up 15 minutes earlier or later each day.
• On the day of the time change, try to get up at your regular time, even if you're feeling tired.
• Get plenty of sunlight during the day to help regulate your body's natural sleep-wake cycle.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed.
• Create a relaxing bedtime routine that includes activities such as reading, taking a warm bath, or listening to calming music.

Conclusion

Clocks will “fall back” by one hour for daylight saving time on November 5. While the time change can be disruptive for some, there are also some potential benefits of DST, such as increased evening daylight and reduced energy consumption. By following these tips, you can help minimize the negative effects of the time change and adjust more quickly to the new schedule.