7 tips to stay productive during Daylight Savings Time (DST), according to a sleep expert

Time is a very important factor when it comes to business productivity. While your primary focus should be on completing tasks according to your schedule, when the time clock changes, you either gain or lose an hour of business productivity thanks to the introduction of the Daylight Savings Time (DST) concept. In March, an hour of extra work time seems like a God-sent gift and in November that same gift is taken away from you and this has adverse effects on your productivity. In an article on Inc., Robert Oexman, Director of the Sleep to Live Institute in North Carolina, gives some advice on how to get through the start of the Daylight Savings Time.

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Avoid using your phone as an alarm clock

You should set limits on your use of technology before bedtime so you can sleep immediately instead of scrolling through your Facebook newsfeed endlessly. It is for this reason that using your cell phone to set an alarm isn't a good option as its proximity can tempt you to use it when sleep is evading you.

Take deep breaths

If you've had a tough day at work and you're tightly wound up, you'll have a difficult time sleeping. When you take deep breaths, you send your body signals that you are ready to relax and you can finally have a good night's sleep.

Stay away from blue light

The blue light emitted from tablets and computers prevents the production of Melatonin which is needed to fall asleep and stay asleep. If you need a night-light, buy a low blue light one. You can also wear blue light filtering glasses for a peaceful sleep.

Stick to a bedtime routine

Following a daily bedtime routine allows your body to adjust to the time change that happens because of DST more easily. Indulge in relaxing activities like taking a hot bath and reading a book before bed to serve the purpose.

Choose the correct sleep equipment

Select the right pillows and mattress for your body type. Also, avoid sharing sheets and blankets with your partner as it can lead to a fight in the middle of the night and disrupt your peaceful sleep.

Sleep in darkness and silence

Try and eliminate all noise and light from your bedroom before sleeping. If your bedroom window lets in a lot of natural light, invest in an eye mask or blackout curtains. Even a night light can inhibit Melatonin production, so keep its use to a minimum.

Stay active

The entire point of Daylight Savings Time (DST) is so that you can have an increased number of evening daylight hours. Instead of staying holed up in your house, step out with friends and family and have a good time. If you're active, you'll tire easily and sleep will come faster than you think.

Good and consistent sleep makes your brain productive for when you need it most. DST or not, making sure you get a good eight hours of sleep is the key to staying alert and effective.