You are probably going to lose sleep March 11. That's the date this year when we all "spring forward" by setting our clocks ahead one hour. But with everyday responsibilities like work, school and family, losing an hour of sleep can really set you back.
According to the National Sleep Foundation, the recognized authority on sleep, getting too little sleep doesn't just leave you feeling a bit tired the next morning, but it also decreases your ability to perform at your mental and physical best. Losing sleep also can increase your risk of diabetes, heart problems and depression.
That means that getting the right amount of sleep is not only important this Sunday, but throughout the entire year. Instead of looking at Daylight Savings Time as the day when you "lose" an hour, look at it as the springboard to a better sleep routine every night. SleepSoundly.com, a Web site that offers practical advice for getting a great night's sleep, offers these tips so that Daylight Savings Time does not set you back.
1) Gradually go to bed earlier in the three or four nights leading up to Daylight Savings Time. While it may be hard to suddenly go to bed an hour earlier one night, ramping back your bedtime in 15 minute increments in the few nights before Saturday can make the transition easier.
2) Lower the lights in your room earlier so your brain gets the signal that it's time to start winding down.
3) Establish a relaxing bedtime routine that prepares your brain and body for sleep.
4) Avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol close to bedtime. Since you'll be going to bed earlier, drink water with dinner instead of coffee or soda.
5) If it's still light outside when you put the kids to bed, make sure to close any blinds and draperies so the room is as dark as possible.
6) Take a nap if you feel a bit groggy come Sunday afternoon, but make sure it's not within a few hours of your regular bedtime, which can disrupt your sleep in the middle of the night.
7) Use Daylight Savings Time as a reminder to evaluate your sleep environment for a better year-round sleep experience, including your mattress and bedding. If you wake up often with an aching back, that could be a sign that it's time to consider investing in a new mattress. If that's the case, look for a mattress that is comfortable and provides correct back support.
For more tips on getting a great night's sleep, visit
http://www.sleepsoundly.com/
.