The days are slowly getting longer, and daily temperatures are gradually rising above the freezing mark—meaning Daylight Saving Time is right around the corner!
Here’s when we’ll spring forward in 2026 and what it means for you.
When is Daylight Saving Time 2026?
Daylight Saving Time takes place each year on the second Sunday of March.
This year, we’ll spring forward on Sunday, March 8 at 2 a.m.
Daylight Saving Time 2026 is special compared to previous years, as the phenomenon will occur on the earliest possible date.
How does Daylight Saving Time affect your health?
Springing forward can impact your health, by disrupting your natural circadian rhythm, according to Northwestern Medicine.
The change in time throws off your body’s typical sleep wake cycle, meaning you may end up feeling tired in the day and more restless at night.
This disruption in sleep can potentially spur other negative health impacts including metabolic functions and mental/emotional regulation.
Staying healthy during the time change
With these concerns in mind, it’s important to take extra care of yourself around the start of Daylight Saving.
Here a few tips for staying healthy and well rested during the time change according to Northwestern:
- Keeping a sleep routine – Strive to get seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Doctors recommend going to bed one hour earlier than normal.
- Chasing the morning light – Get outside and enjoy some sunshine. Northwestern notes that natural morning light can help preserve your circadian rhythm.
- Eliminating sleep disturbances – Avoid excess amounts of caffeine, alcohol, and screen exposure one to two hours before bedtime.
- Exercising in the morning – Activity raises your body temperature, increase wakefulness, and help stabilize your internal clock, according to Northwestern.