Last Week of Daylight Saving Time

From the early hours of Saturday to Sunday, days will become shorter and sunrise will occur earlier.

This year, winter time will take effect during the early hours of Saturday, October 25, to Sunday, October 26. At that moment, clocks must be set back one hour: 02:00 a.m. will become 01:00 a.m.

The annual adjustment, now routine, marks the end of daylight‑saving time and ushers in a schedule with more morning light and evenings that get dark sooner.

That day will have 25 hours instead of the usual 24, meaning we “gain” an hour of sleep, although the adaptation may take time for some people.

The Eternal Debate

Although changing the clock twice a year has become a settled habit, the measure still sparks debate. Its official purpose is to make better use of sunlight, achieve a modest energy saving, and comply with current European regulations.

“Gaining brightness in the morning means losing it in the afternoon, and the body does not always adapt without consequences.”

Increasingly, critics question its usefulness: the trade‑off between morning and evening light can affect sleep, mood, and performance during the first days after the shift.

How It Affects Our Health

The clock change that signals the start of winter time does more than alter our routine; it also impacts physical and mental health. While we gain an hour of sleep, the sudden shift disrupts the circadian rhythm—the internal clock that regulates vital functions such as rest, hormone release, and appetite. In the days that follow, many people experience fatigue, daytime drowsiness, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms typically last three to seven days until the body adjusts. For those already suffering from sleep disorders, the imbalance can be more intense and prolonged.

• Cardiovascular effects: Studies have detected a slight rise in heart attacks and strokes after time‑change events, indicating that the body perceives the alteration as added stress.
• Emotional effects: Reduced evening daylight can trigger seasonal affective disorder, leading to discouragement or apathy, especially in individuals predisposed to depression.

Health specialists recommend:

• Exposing yourself to natural morning light.
• Maintaining regular sleep routines.
• Limiting excessive caffeine intake.
• Adjusting meals to support the transition.

In short, although the time adjustment is part of our legal framework, its consequences highlight the close link between our biological clock and overall well‑being, underscoring the importance of caring for our habits during this adaptation period.