The exact date that the UK clocks will go back in October has been announced, and experts are advising people to take precautions after 2pm. According to Wales Online, the clocks will revert to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) on Sunday, October 27. While many may be looking forward to gaining an extra hour of sleep, this time change can disrupt our daily routines, mood, behaviour, and overall mental well-being.
Experts have shared insights on how this change can affect our minds and bodies. Theresa Schnorbach, a sleep scientist at Emma, explains that our body clocks, or circadian rhythms, are controlled by the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), which is sensitive to light signals. Disruptions to our light exposure can impact our sleep-wake cycle, affecting functions such as body temperature and blood pressure. The decrease in daylight can also worsen symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of seasonal depression that may intensify as daylight hours shorten.
In addition to mood changes, the time shift can lead to anxiety, depressive symptoms, and cognitive impairment. Sleep deprivation resulting from the clock change can affect attention, memory, and problem-solving abilities, potentially leading to accidents and decreased performance in various activities. To prepare for this transition, experts offer tips on how to adjust to the time change effectively.
Suggestions include gradually shifting bedtime earlier each night leading up to the change, avoiding napping during the day, adjusting meal times, changing light bulbs to warmer colours, reducing caffeine intake in the afternoon, maximising exposure to natural light, avoiding bright lights in the evening, staying socially active, and practicing relaxation techniques like mindfulness.
Engaging in proactive measures can help individuals adapt to the time change and mitigate its potential effects on sleep and overall well-being. By being mindful of their sleep routines, light exposure, and social interactions, people can navigate the clock change more smoothly and minimise disruptions to their daily lives. With the right preparation and self-care strategies, individuals can make the transition to the end of British Summertime as seamless as possible.