Saving health and time

By Dana Benson

Daylight Savings Time started March 9, so it's a given that in the days after that, at least some of us will be getting by on a little extra coffee while complaining about how tired we are.

That's because the switch to Daylight Savings Time means we move, or "spring," forward, essentially losing an hour of one our most precious commodities – sleep.

Effects of lost sleep

Not getting enough sleep can have ill effects on your health, and it could be downright dangerous. Studies have shown that immediately after the change to Daylight Savings Time, traffic accidents increase because people are groggier.

But Daylight Savings Time can also have a positive impact on your health, both mentally and physically. Think of all the things you can do in those extra hours of daylight... and all the good it can bring you.

If you've been slacking off on your exercise routine or if working out indoors is growing dull, now's the time to head to the local park for a run or to take a brisk walk through your neighborhood. The exercise will make you feel good and it's equally invigorating to awaken your senses to the sights and smells of spring – like the azaleas and jasmine that are soon to bloom.

Enjoy the daylight

More hours of daylight also means it's time to fire up the grill. Throw some chicken breasts and vegetables on and enjoy a nutritious and simple dinner. And while you're out there grilling, have the kids turn off the Playstation and instead engage in some outdoor play. Encouraging healthy eating and promoting activity are crucial elements in fighting the epidemic of childhood obesity.

So forget about that lost hour of sleep. Establishing new healthy habits with the onset of Daylight Savings Time will more than make up for it.