When the clocks fall back this weekend, a single extra hour can throw your internal clock off‑balance—but a TODAY interview offers simple ways to stay rested.
Key points
- Daylight‑saving time ends this weekend, and the hour‑shift can affect sleep quality.
- Dr. Mike Varshavski advises gradual bedtime adjustments and morning light exposure to ease the transition.
- Consistent daily habits around meals, caffeine, and screens support a smoother adjustment.
The annual shift out of daylight‑saving time arrives this weekend, giving most Americans an extra hour of sleep but also a chance for circadian disruption.
Even a one‑hour change can confuse the body’s natural rhythm, leading to grogginess, difficulty waking, or reduced alertness during the first few days after the switch.
Why the clock change matters for sleep
TODAY’s health segment featured Dr. Mike Varshavski, a board‑certified family‑medicine physician, who joined the show to discuss how viewers can keep their sleep cycles steady during the transition.
Dr. Varshavski emphasized that small, proactive adjustments—such as tweaking bedtime and wake‑time by a few minutes each night and seeking natural light in the morning—can help the body adapt without a sudden shock.
What TODAY’s doctor recommends
He also reminded viewers that maintaining a consistent routine around meals, caffeine, and screen use supports the body’s internal clock, making the “fall back” feel less jarring.
Experts agree that planning ahead and listening to your body’s signals are key; if fatigue persists, a brief nap or a short walk in daylight can restore alertness without compromising nighttime sleep.
Reader questions
When does daylight‑saving time end this year?
According to TODAY’s coverage, the change occurs this weekend, marking the end of daylight‑saving time.
What simple steps can help me adjust my sleep schedule?
Dr. Varshavski suggests making modest changes to bedtime and wake‑time, getting natural morning light, and keeping daily routines steady.
Why does a one‑hour shift affect my sleep?
Even a small shift can misalign the body’s circadian rhythm, leading to temporary sleep disturbances and reduced alertness.
Source: today.com
