Spring will kick off this weekend as the clocks move forward by one hour.
The change from Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) to British Summer Time (BST) will come as the days become longer than night for the first time in 2022.
And while we’re excited to be treated to more sunshine in the afternoon and evening, the first few days following the clock change can be a bit of a struggle.
Luckily, a behavioural expert has given Hull Live some tips in avoiding feeling sluggish during the early days of British Summer Time.
Darren Stanton - a former police officer turned media consultant - has listed a number of things that will help us with the transition.
Speaking on behalf of online casino Slingo, he said: “The hour we technically lose in this transition can have a dramatic effect on our bodies and wellbeing the following day. Some people may be left feeling sluggish, lethargic and experiencing low moods.
“As humans we have a 24-hour internal clock in our brain which we call the circadian rhythm. The circadian rhythm is very susceptible to change, which is why we tend to get things such as jet lag when we change different time zones or lack sleep. This has a profound effect upon the body‘s ability to function properly.
“The body needs a little bit of time to readjust and it can sometimes make us feel very strange. However, there are changes that can be made to avoid these unpleasant feelings when the clocks change.”
Top tips to avoid feeling tired when the clocks go forward
- Try to go to bed about 25 minutes earlier for four nights in the lead up to the clocks changing. That way, you avoid feeling sluggish tired and feeling like you need a power nap halfway through the afternoon
- Snack well. Fighting fatigue is all about your sleep and nutrition also plays a part in your physical alertness
- Avoid drinking alcohol a couple of days before the clocks go forward as drink can result in a poor night’s sleep
- Exercise earlier rather later to release necessary endorphins. This will give you a more positive outlook before you start your busy routine and help combat your sluggishness
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