Fall Back: Syncing Up with Your Inner Bear

 FALL BACK THE TAHOE HEALTHY WAY

By Cal Orey, M.A.

My alarm clock, a fluffy orange tabby, decided 6:00 AM was the perfect time for a bed-rattling serenade. “Earthquake?” I groggily wondered, only to find a pair of golden eyes staring down, demanding breakfast. Perhaps the time change, when we “fall back” an hour, will finally grant me that healthy seven hours or sleep. Here’s hoping the extra morning light provides well-rested bliss, rather than just an earlier cat-induced wake-up call.

Alright, so why is setting back those clocks in Tahoe in November actually a super healthy move, even if it feels a bit weird at first? I’m talking about that fall back for Daylight Saving Time, which usually happens the first Sunday of November. Here are 5 ways why setting back clocks in our mountain town can be healthy.

·       More Zzz;s. When the clocks fall back, you get a bonus hour in bed on that Sunday morning. This can be a great opportunity to catch up on some much-needed rest, which is vital for overall health. More sleep means a happier, more alert you. Think of it as a mini-reset for your internal clock, helping to reduces sleep deprivation that can add up over time.

·       Syncing Up with Your Inner Bear. Your body is naturally wired to respond to light and darkness. As the days get shorter in November, setting the clocks back helps to align our internal circadian rhythm with the natural light cycle. This can make it easier to fall asleep at night and wake up feeling more refreshed, as you body fights against an artificial time. It’s like giving your body a gentle nudge towards its natural, more relaxed winter rhythm. Hibernation mode, sort of!

·       A Boost for Your Mood. While the shorter days can often bring on the “winter blues,” getting that extra hour of morning light can be good for you. Exposure to natural light, especially in the morning, helps regulate serotonin levels, which is key for mood regulation. In other words, a well-rested body and more aligned circadian rhythm can contribute to a more positive outlook. Goodbye seasonal blues!.

·       Safer Commutes (Especially in the Morning!). When the clocks fall back, the sun rises an hour earlier by the clock. This means brighter mornings for those early birds heading to work or school. Increased visibility during morning commutes can lead to fewer accidents, making the roads safer for everyone.

·       Better Digestion and Calorie Burning.  Did you know sleep plays a role in your digestive health and metabolism? When your sleep schedule is constant and you’re getting enough rest, your body is better able to regulate hormones that control your appetite and calorie burning power. The extra hour of sleep can help regulate these processes, leading to a happy gut, happy life.

Another bonus: Good sleep is essential for brain power! That’s right, that extra hour of sleep can help you focus, and enhance creativity. So, yep, there are benefits of an extra hour of sleep.