Why the Clocks Going Forward Will Give Us All a ‘Lag’ This Weekend

This weekend, the clocks will move forward by one hour, marking the beginning of British Summer Time. While the longer evenings bring promises of sunny strolls and more daylight for activities, the sudden loss of an hour can take a toll on our internal clocks. The one-hour adjustment might seem minor, but it can disrupt sleep patterns, leaving many of us feeling groggy and out of sync—a phenomenon often referred to as “social jet lag.”

Our bodies thrive on routine, and even small changes can have a ripple effect. Losing an hour of sleep can affect our energy levels, mood, and focus, especially for those already juggling busy schedules. It may take a few days for your body to fully adjust to the new rhythm. That’s why it’s important to prepare for the transition and take steps to ease into the time change.

Here are some quick tips to help you manage the ‘lag’ this weekend:

Gradual Adjustment: Try going to bed 15 minutes earlier each night leading up to Sunday to ease the transition.
Morning Light: Exposure to natural sunlight in the morning can help reset your body clock and boost your mood.
Stay Active: A short walk or some light exercise during the day can help you feel more energised and promote better sleep at night.
Limit Stimulants: Avoid caffeine and electronic screens close to bedtime to improve your sleep quality.
Prioritise Rest: Make sleep a priority in the days following the clock change to help your body recover.

The good news is that the ‘lag’ is temporary, and soon enough, the longer, brighter days will bring an opportunity to boost our mental health, spend more time outdoors, and enjoy the season of renewal. So, while we may feel a bit off this weekend, let’s embrace the benefits of the shift and look forward to the joys of spring.