How to get a good night's sleep as the clocks change this weekend
24.03.2023 - 16:15
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
British Summer Time is almost here, and with it will come lighter evenings and, eventually, warmer weather.
Also known as Daylight Savings Time, the transition marks an end to Greenwich Mean Time - until we revert back to it in October. On Sunday morning (March 26) the clocks will spring forward at 1am, meaning we lose an hour of beauty sleep at night.
A change in routine, no matter how subtle, can negatively impact anyone's routine. Knowing a change is happening can make it even harder to nod off, with many people already anxious about getting enough shut eye as it is.
READ MORE: Shoppers question if new Heinz sauce is early April Fools joke
Professor Richard Wiseman, Professor of the Public Understanding of Psychology at the University of Hertfordshire, has shared his top tips on how you can improve your sleep. He is also the author of the book Night School: The Life-Changing Science of Sleep, where he uncovers the truth about the sleeping brain.
Prof Wiseman said: "Research suggests that the sleep loss associated with the clocks going forward has all sorts of negative effects, including a drop in concentration, a lowering of mood and an heightened risk of some health issues. The resulting darker mornings can also continue to disrupt the sleep cycle and cause further problems.
"People can prepare for the change by going to bed a bit earlier, and avoiding caffeine and bright light in the evening."
Here are his tips on getting a good night's sleep ahead of the clock change this weekend.
Avoid blue lights and nightcaps
Try to avoid smart devices two hours before you go to sleep. When your eyes are exposed to light, your brain produces less of the sleep-inducing hormone melatonin. Meanwhile alcohol increases your