Hey friends,

Just a reminder that it's almost time to spring ahead, which means we’re about to lose one precious hour of slumber. While springtime mostly means flowers blooming, warm weather and sunny skies, it also means we’re getting ready to turn the clocks ahead. Initially, it’s always hard to get used to that time change but these tips are certainly going to help you to adjust in a more organic and feasible way. We all know how important a good night's rest is to your mental and physical health so here are some ways to help you get used to the new shortened day.

 

A New Routine

Even if you are the type that lives in the moment or struggles to plan, getting into a realistic routine is really going to aid you in adjusting to daylight savings. Even if it is strictly a bedtime routine, it is still routine! Whether you’re giving yourself a wind down period, a slot of time for an activity or just a bedtime hour, following a routine means consistency which is exactly what you need during this transition. 

 

Do Something Positive Before Bed

Add something positive to your routine each evening before bedtime to help wind down. This could mean meditation, a comforting bath or writing your innermost thoughts in a journal. Doing something positive before bed is going to help you to feel like you can take on your day with positivity when you wake the next morning. It’s also something enjoyable to add to your schedule.

Declutter Your Surroundings

When Spring arrives, it’s always a sign to start cleaning and organizing the home. Open up those windows and start the task but focus on decluttering your sleep space in particular. This will help you to feel at peace and happy in your sleep haven. Optimize your space, keep objects minimalistic and surround yourself with soft, cozy blankets and pillows. Feeling safe and secure  in your bedroom will bring you a light, positive feeling each morning you awake. 

Take An Evening Social Media Hiatus

Now that you’re venturing into a new routine, this one is really going to help you get into that resting zone. At least 30 minutes before bed, turn off social media. It sounds unjust and cruel to lovers of the gram and the likes, but truthfully if you’re up diving deep into the abyss of instagram, sleep is nowhere in your future. If you’re worried about feeling bored and staring into the darkness, just remember that light will keep you awake and alert. Winding down in the darkness and focusing on your thoughts is a much more organic way to fall asleep.

Embrace Natural Daylight

When you awake in the morning, start embracing that natural daylight. Open your curtains and blinds so that you can take in the beautiful warmth of natural sunlight. This will help you to feel awake and alert. Your inner clock will feel in tune with the signal that it is daylight and you will love to see the beauty of bright morning light first thing when you wake up.

Cut the Caffeine Off at 4PM

Some of you caffeine lovers out there drink coffee all day long but truthfully, it’s better to cut off your caffeine habit at 4PM. By doing this, your body will be able to become tired in a much more organic way, thus making it easier to fall asleep at a reasonable hour. With caffeine in your system all evening, it will be so hard to feel tired when bedtime rolls around. 

While daylight savings can be an inconvenience, it’s important to create your own routine so the adjustment doesn’t feel like such a shock. Keep in mind that the most important thing is ensuring you get enough sleep. We all know that a good night's sleep is the first step to feeling refreshed, happy and positive in the morning.