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How the time change can upset your personal rhythm

The first few days after a time change can be rough. People report grogginess, fatigue, increased hunger, seasonal depression (SAD) and increased inactivity and laziness.

Gaining an hour of sleep and the early evening darkness that comes with the end of daylight-saving time shouldn't be allowed to disrupt or influence a person's well being, said Ashley Green, a sleep technician at the Butler Memorial Hospital sleep center. There are simple ways to combat the disruption in circadian cycles brought on by time changes.

“In the fall you gain an hour. You can do light therapy because light is one of the principal cues for your circadian rhythms,” said Green.

“Keep your home well-lit. Being in bright light at home helps,” she said. “People tend to get more tired earlier because it gets dark earlier.”

“And practice sleep hygiene, that is sleep-friendly habits,” Green advised.

That means to fall asleep easier and get a more restful sleep, Green recommends:

- No caffeine or alcohol close to bed time;

- No television or vigorous exercise right before bed;

- A hot bath can help one relax;

- Wear ear plugs to drown out noise.

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