Fall Back Without Falling Apart: Surviving the End of Daylight Saving Time in Utah

Hey there, Utah! As we prepare to "fall back" and say goodbye to Daylight Saving Time, you might be feeling a mix of emotions. Sure, there's that extra hour of sleep (yay!), but it also means darker evenings and a shift in our daily rhythms that can throw us for a loop.

For many Utahns, this time change can impact mood, energy levels, and overall mental health. But don't worry – we've got some strategies to help you navigate this transition with more grace and less grumbling.

10 Ways to Adjust to the Time Change Without Losing Your Mind

1. Ease Into It Don't wait until Sunday to adjust your schedule.

Try this: Start shifting your sleep and wake times by 15 minutes each day in the days leading up to the change. By the time Sunday rolls around, you'll be halfway there.

1. Leverage the Morning Light Use the earlier sunrise to your advantage.

Try this: Plan a sunrise hike up Ensign Peak or a morning walk around Liberty Park. Early light exposure can help regulate your body clock.

1. Create a Cozy Evening Routine Make the most of those darker evenings.

Try this: Establish a comforting nighttime ritual. Maybe it's a warm bath, reading a book from The King's English Bookshop, or doing some gentle yoga.

1. Stay Active Don't let the early darkness derail your exercise routine.

Try this: Join an evening fitness class at The Front Climbing Club or try night skiing at Brighton once the season starts. Staying active can boost mood and energy.

1. Practice Light Therapy Invest in a light box to mimic natural sunlight.

Try this: Use a light therapy lamp for about 30 minutes each morning. It can help regulate your circadian rhythm and boost mood.

1. Mindful Eating Be aware of how the time change might affect your eating habits.

Try this: Plan healthy, energy-boosting snacks for the late afternoon when you might start feeling sluggish. The Downtown Winter Market is a great place to stock up on local, seasonal produce.

1. Connect with Others Combat the isolation that can come with earlier nights.

Try this: Plan regular evening meet-ups with friends. Maybe a weekly dinner at Settebello or a book club at the Salt Lake City Public Library.

1. Embrace Hygge Take a cue from the Danes and lean into cozy contentment.

Try this: Create a hygge corner in your home with soft blankets, warm lighting, and comforting scents. Make it a place you look forward to spending time in as the evenings get longer.

1. Get Outside During Daylight Hours Make the most of the daylight you do have.

Try this: Take your lunch break outside. A quick walk around the block or eating your lunch on a park bench can provide a needed dose of natural light.

1. Be Patient with Yourself Remember, it's normal to feel a bit off as you adjust to the time change.

Try this: Practice self-compassion. If you're feeling more tired or irritable, remind yourself that this is a normal reaction and it will pass.

Remember, while the end of Daylight Saving Time can be challenging, it also brings opportunities – for cozy evenings, early morning adventures, and a chance to slow down as we move into the winter season. By implementing some of these strategies, you can navigate this transition with more ease and maybe even find some joy in the changing rhythms of the season.

[Call to Action: Struggling with the time change or seasonal shifts? Let's talk about it. Schedule a session and we'll work on personalized strategies to help you maintain your mental well-being throughout the changing seasons.]