Every year, the Monday after daylight savings time (DST) feels like a battle. You wake up groggy, struggle to focus, and feel drained all day. It’s not just in your head—this shift can have real effects on your health. As a chiropractor, I see many patients struggling with fatigue, headaches, congestion, and muscle tension after the time change. Here’s why DST messes with your body and what you can do about it.
How Daylight Savings Time Disrupts Your Body
1. Your Internal Clock Gets Thrown Off
Your body runs on a circadian rhythm, an internal clock that controls when you sleep and wake up. When we “spring forward,” we lose an hour of sleep, and our bodies struggle to adjust. This disruption makes it harder to wake up in the morning and affects your focus throughout the day.
2. Poor Sleep Quality
Losing just one hour of sleep can throw off your entire night. Many people struggle to fall asleep on Sunday night, leading to restless sleep and grogginess on Monday. Poor sleep quality can also increase muscle tension and inflammation, which can contribute to back and neck pain.
3. Increased Stress and Fatigue
Sleep deprivation triggers a stress response in your body. Your cortisol (stress hormone) levels rise, making you feel anxious and irritable. Lack of sleep also reduces your body’s ability to repair itself, leading to muscle soreness and headaches.
4. Higher Risk of Injuries and Accidents
Studies show that the Monday after DST brings an increase in workplace injuries and car accidents. Reaction times slow, coordination suffers, and fatigue makes it harder to focus. If you already have muscle tension or joint pain, this exhaustion can make it worse.
How to Help Your Body Adjust
If you’re struggling with the effects of DST, here are some ways to support your body:
• Go to bed earlier: Try to shift your bedtime 15–30 minutes earlier in the days leading up to the time change.
• Get morning sunlight: Natural light helps reset your circadian rhythm and makes waking a up easier.
• Stay hydrated: Dehydration can worsen fatigue and headaches. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Move your body: Light exercise, stretching, or chiropractic adjustments can help reduce muscle tension and improve circulation.
• Avoid caffeine late in the day: Caffeine can make it harder to fall asleep, making the adjustment even tougher.
Need Help Recovering from DST?
If you’re feeling stiff, sore, or unusually fatigued after the time change, chiropractic care can help. Adjustments can relieve tension, improve circulation, and help your nervous system reset. If you’re struggling, schedule a visit—we’ll get you back on track.
Dr. Bary Chiropractic – Helping You Feel Your Best, No Matter the Time Change.
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