Why Sleep Experts Recommend Permanent Standard Time

Discover why leading sleep experts advocate for permanent standard time. Learn how brighter mornings, safer streets, and better sleep start with aligning our clocks to natural light.

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🌙 The Ongoing Time Change Debate

Twice a year, Americans shift their clocks forward or back — an old practice known as Daylight Saving Time (DST).
While the intent was once to conserve energy and make better use of daylight, modern research has revealed a different story: these time changes may actually be harmful to our health and safety.

As November approaches, millions will once again “fall back” to standard time. But according to the Coalition for Permanent Standard Time, which includes the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) and several scientific organizations, it’s time to stop the clock-switching for good.

Recent Gallup data shows that over half of Americans (54%) oppose daylight saving time, preferring a consistent schedule year-round. Experts say permanent standard time—not permanent DST—is the healthiest option.

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🧠 What the Experts Are Saying

“When our schedules align with the timing of natural light, people benefit from brighter mornings, safer commutes, and improved sleep,”
— Dr. Karin Johnson, sleep medicine physician and co-chair of the Coalition for Permanent Standard Time.

Dr. Johnson and fellow sleep experts explain that permanent standard time keeps our internal body clocks—known as circadian rhythms—better synchronized with the sun’s natural rise and set. This alignment helps regulate sleep quality, alertness, and overall well-being.

Please refer to the News for details at
aasm.org (American Academy of Sleep Medicine)

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🌞 The Benefits of Permanent Standard Time

☀️ 1. Brighter Mornings

Standard time mirrors the natural solar cycle, giving us more sunlight in the early hours. Morning light exposure is crucial — it tells your body it’s time to wake up, boosting energy and mood.
In contrast, permanent daylight saving time would delay sunrise in some regions until after 9 a.m. in winter, leaving many to start their day in darkness.

Morning sunlight = stronger circadian rhythm = better focus and sleep.

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🚸 2. Safer Streets

The AASM’s latest survey found that public safety was the top concern for one-third (32%) of Americans regarding time-change laws.
Darker winter mornings under DST would increase the risk of traffic accidents and pedestrian injuries, especially among schoolchildren walking or waiting for buses before sunrise.

Switching to permanent standard time could mean brighter commutes, safer roads, and more alert drivers.

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💤 3. Better Sleep & Overall Health

When our internal clock aligns with the sun’s natural rhythm, our body naturally starts producing melatonin as darkness falls. This makes it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.

The AASM survey found that 54% of adults say their sleep suffers most from the seasonal time change.
Poor sleep has been linked to serious health problems, including:

• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Weight gain and obesity
• Daytime fatigue and poor concentration

In other words, sticking with standard time could support both public health and personal well-being year-round.

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🕯️ Tips to Adjust Smoothly This Fall

Even though “falling back” is generally easier than springing forward, sleep experts suggest taking a few steps to help your body transition smoothly:

✅ Prioritize seven hours of sleep per night before and after the switch.
✅ Shift daily routines (like meals and workouts) slightly later for a few days leading up to the change.
✅ Set clocks back early on Saturday evening, then go to bed when you feel naturally sleepy.
✅ Get morning sunlight exposure — step outside shortly after waking to help reset your circadian rhythm.

These small actions can reduce grogginess and help your body adapt faster.

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🌅 Final Thoughts: A Call for Brighter Mornings and Healthier Lives

The science is clear: permanent standard time aligns best with human biology.
It supports better sleep, sharper mornings, and safer communities.

As Dr. Johnson explains, “Decades of evidence back this recommendation — and most Americans agree it’s time for change.”
The Coalition for Permanent Standard Time is urging federal and state lawmakers to make standard time permanent and end disruptive seasonal clock changes once and for all.

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💤 SlumberZon’s Take

At SlumberZon, we believe real rest begins with rhythm — not just habits, but light, timing, and balance. Whether you’re winding down for the night or greeting the sunrise, aligning your lifestyle with natural light cycles can make a meaningful difference in your energy and health.

🌤️ Brighter mornings. Safer days. Deeper sleep.
That’s what permanent standard time promises — and what SlumberZon stands for.

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