Clocks fall back one hour this weekend, granting us an extra hour of sleep. But what does this shift to winter time truly mean for our bodies?
Sleep Quality Boost
A 2013 UK survey showed sleep improves at winter time's start, making us feel happier and more energetic.
Short-Lived Benefits
Unfortunately, this uplift is temporary. Sleep soon deteriorates below pre-shift levels as shorter days prompt earlier bedtimes and longer mornings in bed, leading to tossing and turning.
Permanent Time Debate
If we adopted one time year-round, should it be winter or summer? Experts differ.
Keep Winter Time Year-Round
One researcher champions permanent winter time as our biological baseline. Scrapping it would extend dark winter mornings, when daylight is vital for starting the day.
Abolish Winter Time
Another argues for eliminating winter time, benefiting health by maximizing summer daylight for extended outdoor time.
