All in - 03/02/2026
This weekend the clocks jump forward—and while it’s only one hour, that small shift can have a surprisingly big impact on our health.
Our bodies run on an internal clock called the circadian rhythm, which regulates everything from sleep and mood to hormone release, metabolism, and even immune function. When daylight savings disrupts this rhythm, research shows it can lead to reduced sleep quality, increased fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and even higher rates of workplace and driving accidents in the days after the change. Mood can also be affected, with some people noticing greater stress, anxiety, or symptoms of seasonal depression.
Studies consistently find that daylight savings time has measurable effects on population health. In the week following the clock change, researchers have reported higher rates of car accidents, workplace injuries, and even hospital admissions. Cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes have been shown to increase slightly after the shift, thought to be linked to disrupted sleep and changes in blood pressure regulation. Mental health can also be affected, with some studies noting a short-term rise in depressive symptoms.
Although these risks are relatively small on an individual level, they are significant enough across large populations that many health experts now question whether the benefits of daylight savings outweigh the drawbacks. What is clear is that even small disruptions to sleep and circadian rhythms can ripple through multiple systems of the body, highlighting just how important sleep health really is.
The good news is there are practical, evidence-based steps to help your body adjust. Gradually shifting your bedtime and wake-up time in the days leading up to daylight savings can soften the impact of the change. Prioritising natural light exposure in the morning helps reset your internal clock, while limiting screens in the evening reduces the disruption caused by artificial blue light. Staying active during the day, particularly earlier in the day, helps regulate circadian rhythms and supports better quality sleep. Protecting your bedtime routine—avoiding caffeine late in the day, keeping your bedroom cool and dark, and winding down before sleep—also makes a noticeable difference.
Daylight savings is a reminder of just how sensitive our bodies are to rhythm and routine. Sleep and circadian health play a huge role in our energy, mood, and long-term wellbeing. By paying attention to movement, light, and rest, you can ease the transition and support your health, even when the clock changes.
All in - 03/02/2026
