The exact date when UK clocks will go back at the end of October has been confirmed, and an expert is advising people to take precautionary measures after 2pm on that day. According to Wales Online, the clocks will revert to GMT on Sunday, October 27, which marks the end of British Summertime. While many may look forward to gaining an hour of sleep, the time change can have significant impacts on daily routines, mood, behaviour, and mental health. Experts have warned about the potential effects of the clock change on the body and mind.
Our body clocks, also known as circadian rhythms, are closely linked to the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) in the brain, which responds to light signals and influences various bodily functions. Theresa Schnorbach, a sleep scientist at Emma, explains that changes in light exposure can disrupt our sleep patterns and affect core functions like body temperature and blood pressure. The decrease in daylight can also impact mood, especially for individuals with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), leading to worsened depressive symptoms.
Furthermore, the sudden time adjustment can lead to increased anxiety and depressive symptoms, affecting cognitive abilities such as attention, memory, and problem-solving skills. To prepare for the clock change, experts recommend gradual adjustments to bedtime schedules, avoiding napping, and modifying meal times. Changing light bulbs to warmer colours, reducing caffeine intake, maximising exposure to natural light, and engaging in relaxation techniques like mindfulness practices can help ease the transition.
Dr. Lindsay Browning, a psychologist and sleep expert, suggests shifting meal times and using warm-coloured light bulbs before sleep to support the body’s internal clock. Maintaining social interactions, practicing relaxation techniques, and avoiding bright lights before bedtime are also recommended strategies to cope with the time change. Experts emphasize the importance of preparing the mind and body for the clock adjustment to minimise disruptions to sleep and overall well-being.
As the clock change approaches, following these suggestions can help individuals better adapt to the shift and mitigate potential negative impacts on their health. Remember, the clocks will go back at 2am on Sunday, October 27 in the UK, so taking proactive steps to adjust daily routines can support a smoother transition to the new time schedule.