While the time change affects clocks, it can also affect sleep patterns. Even a one-hour shift can interrupt circadian rhythms, the body’s internal clock that regulates sleep and wake cycles. Photo by Piro4d via Pixabay

YUBA CITY, CA (MPG) - Clocks will move forward one hour at 2 a.m. Sunday, March 8, as daylight saving time begins.

The shift marks the start of longer evenings and signals the approach of spring. It also means most residents will lose one hour of sleep, a change that can disrupt routines for families, students and workers.

Daylight saving time has a long history in the United States. Congress first adopted a version of the practice during World War I as a way to conserve fuel by extending evening daylight hours. Lawmakers later repealed it, then reinstated a standardized system with the Uniform Time Act of 1966. Today, most states observe daylight saving time from March through November, though Hawaii and most of Arizona do not participate.

While the time change affects clocks, it can also affect sleep patterns. Even a one-hour shift can interrupt circadian rhythms, the body’s internal clock that regulates sleep and wake cycles.

Health professionals often recommend easing into the change by adjusting bedtimes in the days leading up to the switch. Moving bedtime earlier in 10- to 15-minute increments can help reduce fatigue on Monday morning.

Consistency remains important. Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, including weekends, helps stabilize sleep cycles. Limiting screen use before bed can also support better rest. Televisions, phones and tablets emit blue light that may delay the release of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep.

Spending time outdoors during daylight hours may also help the body adjust. Exposure to natural light and regular physical activity can support healthier sleep patterns.

Bedrooms should remain dark, quiet and cool to promote uninterrupted sleep. Blackout curtains, fans or white noise machines may help reduce disturbances.

As residents prepare to set clocks ahead one hour, officials often remind households to check smoke detector batteries and review emergency preparedness plans.

Daylight saving time will end Nov. 1, when clocks fall back one hour.