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Protect Your Internal Clock

For most of the United States, daylight saving time (DST) begins March 10. While setting the clock forward an hour may not seem significant, receiving less morning light and more evening light can disrupt our circadian rhythm and impact our well-being in many ways.

Respecting our circadian rhythm, otherwise known as our, "internal clock," is essential to optimizing our sleep quality. When we get enough sleep, our cognitive function, immune system and hormone regulation remain at functioning levels. Lack of rest could also lead to a decline in attention, memory, decision-making and mood. Research also shows an associated rise in the following conditions the week following DST:

As we prepare to spring forward, we must remember how vital sleep is to maintaining overall health and well-being. Here are three things you can do to prioritize and improve your sleep quality:

  1. Eliminate negative habits. Limit certain activities or practices close to bedtime, like drinking caffeinated beverages, eating large meals or using electronic devices. Refrain from irregular sleep patterns, such as going to bed at different times each night.

  2. Practice relaxation and mindfulness techniques. Mindfulness can reset the nervous system, improve focus and provide a feeling of relaxation and calmness, helping to improve sleep function. Explore these resources:
  1. Regulate stress and anxiety levels. Stress and anxiety can cause our bodies to release hormones that make it difficult to relax. Consider using Koa Foundations, Northrop Grumman’s free well-being platform that uses science-backed techniques to identify root causes and address mental health challenges. Download the app today and get started by taking the well-being check-in, a brief questionnaire to help you track and understand your mental well-being.

Quality sleep is the fuel that powers our bodies every day. Implementing the tips above will help set yourself up for better performance and satisfaction in both work and life by creating a well-rested mind, improving productivity, focus, creativity, decision-making and overall health and wellness.

Written by: Devon Lee and Maria Barajas

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