A sleep expert has revealed which people are more susceptible to facing an impact with the clocks going forward
It’s officially springtime, and on Sunday, March 29, the clocks moved forward. British Summer Time is here, with clocks jumping from midnight to 2am on the night between Saturday and Sunday.
Whilst the brighter days are truly a blessing, many have been feeling more drowsy and moody over losing that hour of sleep. A Sleepeezee expert said: “Consistency is key when it comes to maintaining a good sleep schedule.
“Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, even on weekends, will help reinforce your body’s natural circadian rhythm. Your body will then naturally know when it’s time to wind down, making it easier to fall asleep, even when the clocks shift.”
MyLondon spoke to David Garley, GP and Director of The Better Sleep Clinic. He explained: “Sleep disorders are really common, insomnia affects 10% of the adult population globally. A lot of people are affected when it comes to their sleep, but don’t necessarily have sleep disorders because they don’t meet the threshold.
“People who generally sleep okay, the clocks going forward are unlikely to make much impact when it comes to their sleep. People who fly to France, for example, the clocks change there and they don’t feel it too much.”
He emphasised that people who usually struggle with sleep will feel the effects of British Summer Time the most: “Let’s say for example, people who might usually have six hours of sleep, during the winter, when the clocks go forward, that hour is cut to five hours and your sleep now is shortened.”
David indicated: “Most people are fine, but those who are existing on that threshold, and struggling with sleep, that hour could be what tips the balance.”
David concluded with some tips on how people can cope. He said: “If people generally sleep well, then I would suggest getting into bed maybe 30 minutes earlier, to offset the earlier start.
“However, as humans, we are built with resilience to endure the occasional night of poor sleep. If you have more habitual poor sleep and this impacts you during the day, then I would suggest speaking to your GP or a sleep clinic.”
Looking for more from MyLondon? Subscribe to our daily newsletters here for the latest and greatest updates from across London.
