As anticipation builds across Canada, the countdown to daylight saving time (DST) 2025 is on. Get ready to spring forward and make the most of those longer daylight hours beginning on Sunday, March 9th at 2 a.m. local time. While sacrificing an hour of sleep might seem daunting, the rewards of extended daylight are just around the corner.
Here’s what you need to know about daylight saving time:
- Setting the Clocks: Canadians in most time zones should adjust their clocks forward by one hour on Saturday, March 8th, before going to bed. Automatic devices like smartphones and smartwatches will likely update themselves overnight. Don’t forget to double-check in the morning just to be safe!
- What is DST: DST spans from March to November, allowing for more daylight in the evenings during the warmer months. Springing forward in March ensures brighter evenings, while falling back in November shifts the focus to brighter mornings.
- Who Doesn’t Observe DST: Not all provinces and territories in Canada observe DST. Yukon, most of Saskatchewan, and parts of Quebec, Ontario, and BC remain on standard time year-round.
While DST once served a purpose of conserving energy, its necessity is now being reexamined. The negative effects on health and sleep are becoming more apparent as studies show how disrupting our body clocks can impact our overall well-being. From interfering with sleep patterns to increasing the risk of health issues like heart attacks and strokes, the implications of the biannual clock change are significant.
Sleep experts advocate for a reassessment of DST, with many calling for its abolishment to protect our health. By prioritizing the morning light, our mental and physical equilibrium could be better maintained. Making the clock adjustment in the fall permanent, keeping mornings brighter, may be a step towards better overall health and sleep quality.
As we gear up for DST 2025, let’s consider the impact it has on our lives and explore alternatives that prioritize our well-being. This season, let’s not just spring forward our clocks; let’s spring forward towards healthier, more restful lives.
