With daylight saving time here, it’s time to start thinking about how to stay motivated even when it’s pitch black outside at 4 p.m. Most people hate turning the clocks back because it means the cold, dark months are ahead. Here are some helpful tips to stay productive and happier this winter.Â
Set The Mood
Whether you live in a dorm or apartment, your space contributes to your mood more than you even realize. You can make some small changes to your living space that completely transform your mood and attitude. Since you will no longer be getting natural light shining through your windows late into the afternoon, you need to add some lighting yourself.
Ditch the bright yellow overhead light and instead put a few lamps throughout your space. This gives light without being bright and overwhelming. You can also go for a sunset lamp or fairy lights to make it more fun and cozy.
Another way your space can contribute to beating daylight saving time is by making your bed in the morning. I know it sounds so simple, but this small task can save you from wasting an afternoon. When it’s made, you are less likely to crawl back under the covers when you come home from class.
Instead of feeling down when it gets dark, make it cozy and fun. Set up your space with comfy blankets and rugs to make your environment warm and inviting.Â
Reset When it Starts to Get DarkÂ
Walking out of your lecture class at 4 p.m. into a dark sky might be one of the worst feelings. It makes your body think that it is time to go to sleep, but it is not!
If you still have things to get done after the sun goes down, you have to give yourself a quick reset when you feel that tiredness creeping up on you. Once the sun starts to set, begin to move your body. Go for a walk, do a yoga or Pilates class or even just stretch in your dorm.
This small but deliberate movement will keep you awake. Sip on some ice water or use an ice roller on your face to feel fresh and be ready to conquer the next wave of the day. Make sure to eat dinner around this time, or, if it’s too early, have a small snack to keep your energy up.
It is important to make some time for yourself to relax and reset throughout the day.
Make the most of the morningÂ
Since it gets dark so early, you must make the most of the daylight that you have. Waking up just a little earlier to get some extra sunshine is so beneficial for your body. While it is difficult, try not to go to sleep later or sleep longer than you usually would just because we set the clocks back.
Light increases serotonin, the “feel-good” chemical in the brain. If you like to exercise, make an effort to do it in the morning. It improves your energy and helps you sleep better than exercising before bed.Â
Bedtime routineÂ
Just improving your bedtime routine improves your entire day! Make sure to put all screens away at least an hour before you go to bed. Swap out scrolling for a book, puzzle or journaling session.
Also, avoid eating 2-3 hours before bed because it can disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm and cause poor sleep. When going to bed, make sure your room is completely dark and at a comfortable, cool temperature.
All of these small changes make big improvements to your mental health, energy and overall well-being. Make sure to leave time for yourself and the things you like to do.
Overall, doing things that make you happy and making time to take care of yourself and set your routine are what are going to help you get through daylight saving time and winter in general.