As October comes to an end, daylight hours are decreasing, signaling the imminent arrival of winter. This weekend, the clocks will be set back by one hour, marking the end of British Summer Time.
According to Royal Museums Greenwich, this adjustment always takes place on the final Sunday of October. This year, the UK clocks will be turned back on October 26 at 2 am. While many may appreciate the extra hour of sleep, this time change can disrupt the body’s internal clock.
Dr. Bhavini Shah, a general practitioner at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, emphasizes the importance of quality sleep for overall health, affecting heart health, mental well-being, immunity, reproductive health, and hormonal balance. Changes in daylight hours can disturb sleep patterns and potentially impact health.
To counteract the effects of the time change, Dr. Shah suggests taking a morning walk on the 27th. Sunlight plays a crucial role in regulating circadian rhythms, and exposure to morning sunlight post-clock change can help the body adjust internally.
Increasing exposure to daylight, especially in the morning, and incorporating rest periods in the evening can aid in maintaining a healthy circadian rhythm, also known as the internal body clock.
For those experiencing ongoing sleep difficulties, the NHS website offers guidance on managing insomnia, outlining effective strategies for achieving better sleep quality.
Consulting with a healthcare provider about any health concerns is recommended to address sleep issues effectively.
