Feeling tired from the work week already?
Here’s some good news—Daylight Saving Time officially ends this weekend in Chicago, meaning we’ll roll the clocks back and get an extra hour of sleep!
But the conclusion of Daylight Saving Time doesn’t just bring added sleep—it can also mean changes to your circadian rhythm and health.
Here’s everything to know about the time change and how to stay healthy as we return to Standard Time.
When does Daylight Saving Time end?
Daylight Saving Time in Chicago ends on Sunday, November 1 at 2 a.m., according to Time and Date.
This means that at 2 a.m., the clocks will roll back one hour to 1 a.m. as we switch back to standard time.
This also means sunset and sunrise will occur one hour earlier on November 1 than the previous day, with more light in the morning and less in the evening.
What setting the clocks back means for your health
Setting the clocks back an hour brings both good and bad news.
Let’s start with the good—we’ll all enjoy an extra hour of rest on Sunday. And you just might need it with Halloween festivities in Chicago on Saturday night.
The sun will also set at 4:45 p.m. on Sunday, meaning you can hit the hay a bit earlier if you want to.
Now for the not-so-good news—the time change can sometimes cause disruptions to your circadian rhythm or sleep cycle.
Luckily, there are ways to prepare and adjust your body to the change before it happens.
Here are a few tips to protect your sleep and your health around the time change, according to the Sleep Foundation:
- Gradually shift your bedtime – Gradually altering your bedtime in the days leading up to the end of Daylight Saving Time can help you avoid sleep disruption. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends hitting the sack 15-20 minutes later than normal to adjust your body.
- Practice relaxation techniques – Engaging in meditation, deep breathing, and other relaxing activities before bed can help you maintain deep sleep.
- Get plenty of daylight – During Standard Time when daylight becomes more limited, it’s important to make sure you get as much sun as you can. Specifically, getting sunlight first thing in the morning can stabilize your circadian rhythm.
