As the clocks turn back Nov. 1 and the days get darker, it is important to prioritize quality sleep. The Counting Sheep Challenge is underway, offering rewards to employees who track their sleep each week. Employees and their spouses also have access to free sleep hygiene coaching through the My Wellness program.
Even though we gain an additional hour when the clocks fall back this weekend, the change can disrupt our circadian rhythm, the body’s internal clock that regulates many of its functions. While the extra hour provides an opportunity for more sleep that night, the earlier sunrise and sunset can disrupt sleep patterns and temporarily decrease sleep quality as the body adjusts to the time change.
Both the quality and quantity of sleep that people get have a direct impact on numerous bodily functions, including cognitive processing, mental health, digestion, as well as heart and pulmonary health.
Some tips for helping with the adjustment back to standard time include:
- Start to transition ahead of time by going to sleep 15 minutes later each day in the three or four days immediately preceding the date that the clocks change
- Spend time outside in the morning, as sunlight is a key signal to our bodies when it comes to regulating circadian rhythm
- Keep mealtimes consistent and try to avoid late mealtimes, as late meals can impact the quality of one’s sleep
The Counting Sheep Challenge runs from Oct. 26 through Nov. 22 and provides an opportunity to earn My Wellness points in the program year’s first wellness challenge. Participants who reach the weekly tracking goal will earn 25 My Wellness points. Activity can be tracked in the My Wellness portal.
Employees and their spouses can also receive more personalized tips and guidance on overall sleep hygiene by participating in free and one-on-one sleep coaching. The sleep coaching offering is just one of many health coaching programs available through the My Wellness program. Participants earn 150 points for completing a health coaching program.
