Springing Forward and Maintaining Healthy Sleep During Daylight Saving Time

“Sleep is foundational to our physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.”

UPPER MICHIGAN, Mich. – As we prepare to "spring forward" on Sunday, March 9, it’s a great time to highlight the importance of healthy sleep habits—not just for adjusting to Daylight Saving Time (DST) but for overall well-being.

Losing even one hour of sleep can disrupt our internal clocks, leaving us feeling sluggish, irritable, and unfocused. Research shows that people tend to lose about 40 minutes of sleep in the transition from standard time to DST, especially on the Monday following the change.

Sleep Awareness Week (March 9–15) serves as a reminder that consistent, high-quality sleep is essential for physical and mental health. While the time change can be disruptive, there are ways to minimize its effects.

“Practice good sleep hygiene,” says Rebecca Wagner, Aspirus Polysomnographic Technologist. “Don’t try to take naps to make up for the sleep loss, avoid rigorous activity before bed and limit your screen time before bed.”

For those who struggle with persistent sleep difficulties, a professional sleep study might provide answers. Sleep studies at Aspirus monitor vital signs, oxygen levels, and sleep patterns to diagnose conditions like sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, REM sleep behavior disorders, insomnia, and narcolepsy.

“Sleep is foundational to our physical, mental, and emotional well-being,” says Wagner. “Insufficient sleep can lead to memory problems, increased anxiety, depression, and additional strain on bodily functions.”

Aspirus Health encourages individuals to take proactive steps in maintaining healthy sleep habits to ensure a smooth transition into DST and to support long-term sleep health.

For more information about sleep health and services available at Aspirus, visit aspirus.org/sleep-medicine.