In this fascinating episode and webinar, we dive into a timely topic that affects millions but is rarely dissected: daylight saving time. More than an inconvenience, this biannual time shift can have serious repercussions on your health. We’ll explore how it disrupts your circadian rhythm, why the old energy-saving myths don’t hold up, and what steps you can take to mitigate its effects. Whether you’re an advocate for change or just tired of losing sleep, this episode has insights that could redefine how you approach your day—and your health. Tune in for expert advice and practical tips to reclaim your sleep and well-being.
Introduction to Circadian Rhythms Unpack why DST affects your body’s natural timekeeping.
Sleep Deprivation and Mental Health Discover how losing just one hour can impact stress and anxiety.
The Energy Savings Myth Debunked Learn why DST may not be saving energy, as many believe.
Blue Light Management Strategies Practical steps to reduce screen impact on sleep quality.
Healthy Lifestyle Practices Tips on exercise and meditation to boost sleep quality.
Natural Light and Grounding Techniques Explore how morning sunlight and grounding can benefit your health.
Dietary Habits Affecting Sleep Foods to eat—and avoid—to improve your sleep.
Listener Questions and Answers Real-world solutions to DST-related sleep issues.
NuCalm (use code WELCOME10)
Daylight Computer (code is improvementwarrior)
Stay ahead of the clock and make this the year you take control of your circadian health.
Daylight saving time isn’t just annoying—it’s messing with your body clock in ways you might not expect. When the clock jumps forward or backward, your circadian rhythm takes a hit, leading to sleep deprivation and even mental health effects. If you’re serious about a healthy lifestyle and alternative health, it’s time to question this outdated government policy and learn how to protect yourself with smart circadian health mitigation tips. For more insights on its impact, you can check this resource.
As you start to understand why daylight saving time impacts your life, it’s crucial to see how deeply it affects your body’s natural rhythms. Let’s explore this further by diving into the specifics of sleep problems and beyond.
When the clock springs back this year, your days get shorter, it gets dark way too early and your sleep suffers. That hour jump isn’t just a minor inconvenience—it can lead to serious issues. Studies show that losing sleep can increase stress, anxiety, and even depression. A missed hour might not sound like much, but it adds up. Your circadian rhythm, which helps regulate sleep, gets thrown off balance. This makes it tough to fall asleep and wake up at your ideal times.
Now, think about this: most people believe they can catch up on sleep later. But the truth is, your body doesn’t work that way. Sleep debt accumulates, leading to persistent fatigue. How do you combat this? Prioritize consistent sleep patterns and nature patterns. Stick to a regular bedtime, even on weekends, to help your body adjust. The sleep podcast is HERE where I give you 36 sleep tips.
It’s time to question whether this outdated practice actually saves energy. Originally, daylight saving time aimed to reduce energy consumption by making better use of daylight. But research indicates that the energy savings are minimal at best. In fact, some studies suggest it might even increase energy usage due to additional heating and cooling demands.
Many people still believe that daylight saving time is essential for energy conservation. However, the evidence doesn’t fully support this claim. It’s an example of how an old belief can persist despite new data. So, what can you do? Stay informed and advocate for policies based on current research rather than tradition. You can learn more about the energy savings myth here.
With the rise of screens in our daily lives, managing blue light exposure is more important than ever. Blue light from phones, computers, and TVs can further disrupt your already fragile circadian rhythm. The solution? Simple changes can make a big difference. Consider using blue light filters on your devices, especially in the evening. This can help reduce the impact on your sleep quality.
One tap zap app is HERE. And how to turn your phone red is HERE
Another tip is to create a bedtime routine that limits screen time at least an hour before bed. Instead, opt for activities like reading a book under soft lighting (HERE). Not only will this help your sleep, but it’s also a great way to unwind after a long day.
Now that you understand the drawbacks of daylight saving time, let’s talk about alternatives and how you can adjust your lifestyle to counteract its effects. This section will guide you toward a healthier balance.
Adopting practices that support your body’s natural rhythms is key. Start by embracing natural sunlight exposure, especially during sunrise and early UVA sunlight. This exposure not only boosts your mood but also helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle. Aim to spend at least 30 minutes outside in the morning sunlight most days. This could be as simple as taking a brisk walk outdoors or enjoying a leisurely breakfast in the sun.
Incorporate grounding activities like walking barefoot on grass or sand during these morning hours. This practice can reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Remember, it’s about consistency, not intensity. Small daily habits can lead to big changes over time. For more strategies on a healthy lifestyle, explore this resource.
Hey, what’s up Improvement Warrior? Jason Yun back with you again. Welcome back to the Improvement Warrior podcast. This is going to be episode number 82, featuring a webinar I shared in the Improvement Warrior University group on Facebook. We’re discussing Daylight Saving Time, or Daylight Savings Time—whatever it’s called. It’s coming up on November 2nd, which always feels like it’s earlier than usual. We’ll discuss all the disadvantages and why it sucks. If you’re in a place that doesn’t observe it, good for you, but unfortunately, things are going to get worse. That’s why November is my least favorite month, followed by December. However, this year, I’ll be heading to Florida and going on a cruise in November, and to Mexico in December, so maybe these months won’t be as bad. We’ll see.
If you’re new to the Improvement Warrior podcast, this is an alternative health podcast where we discuss topics even the alternative community doesn’t, like circadian rhythm, mitochondrial health, cold thermogenesis, grounding, DHA—basically everything you need to be a strong person. We still talk about fitness and nutrition but in a circadian context, because timing is what matters most. When your timing is off, you will eventually break. Make sure you’re on the newsletter at improvementwarriorfitness.com, where I send out everything happening in the world.
In today’s episode, we’re talking about circadian rhythm disruption, sleep deprivation, the mental health effects of Daylight Saving Time, government policy, the reasons behind its implementation, and why it hasn’t stopped. We’ll also explore its economic impact, public health risks, blue light management, dietary influences, grounding practices, historical context, productivity decline, and the energy savings myth. It’s not saving energy—just like LED light bulbs save your electric bill energy but do nothing for you personally. We’ll discuss health mitigation tips, natural light exposure, and a comprehensive approach.
What’s going on in my world? I got my blood tests back and wasn’t happy with the results. Some highlights: apparently, A1C isn’t included in the regular blood workup anymore, which is absurd since it provides a three-month snapshot of your blood sugar. I can’t find my 2023 results; I think my kids misplaced a page. My new doctor’s blood panel isn’t as comprehensive as my old one. My testosterone was 813, and my iron was labeled low at 52, though they didn’t provide a reference range. They wanted to schedule a three-month follow-up and start iron supplements, but I declined. They also said my cholesterol was high but not enough for statin drugs, recommending a low-cholesterol, low-fat diet, which made me laugh. My cholesterol was 217, HDL 82, LDL 124.
217 is low for me, possibly due to starting NuCalm—something I’ve been using since August and plan to continue with. It’s not really a meditation app, but it enhances meditation, altering brainwaves through different music tracks. There’s one for sleep, which I use most nights, and others for deep focus and brain igniting—perfect for writing with focus. There’s also a rescue track for parasympathetic activation. Check it out at improvementwarriorfitness.com/nucalm with code WELCOME10. Stress impacts cholesterol, and with NuCalm, I may have lowered my stress responsibility. Back in 2022 and 2021, cholesterol was higher: 267 and 285, respectively. Statin drugs inhibit LDL cholesterol, crucial for addressing stress.
Other findings: my vitamin D was a bit low at 63, while optimal is 60—unacceptable considering my outdoor time from April to October in Connecticut. Usually, I’m between 76-79; last year, I was at 79. Three weeks before my blood test, I did a Power Red donation, which could explain the drop in vitamin D and low iron. I’ll research vitamin D and iron connections more. Triglycerides were 57, HDL 82, previously 84 in 2022 and 93 in 2021.
So, for reference, last year my testosterone was only 422. This year, because I heard that UVB lowers testosterone, I decided to try something new. I bought a cup—not a sports or jockey cup, but something made of silicone or similar material—that I use to cover my balls to avoid being irradiated by UVB. When UVA is out or during sunrise, I expose them as much as possible. Additionally, every morning, I’d use a mini red light on my balls.
Now, compare that: in 2023, my testosterone was 813—nearly double. In 2022, it was 728, and in 2021 it was 595. I think this was because I was on a misguided diet consuming only 1,700–1,800 calories to get as ripped as possible. But I overlooked the fact that reducing caloric intake can crash your testosterone levels.
As for the labs, another anomalous result was my creatinine ratio, which was at 16.8—high. The previous years it was 15.8, 11, and 10, respectively. This might reflect dehydration in my mitochondria, so upping water intake might help. That’s the lab overview.
These days, with Konniki, I don’t wear it 24/7. In the past, I wore it continuously, switching it whenever I did my cold bath. Now, I only put it on when I’m working outside or getting UVA exposure in the early morning. With sunrise, I don’t wear it anymore. Instead, I’ll take my clothes off, minimize my shorts, and expose myself to the sun. I’ve been finding new spots for this ritual, as the bus drop-off time coincides. I don’t care what people think; I’m confident that indecent exposure requires intent. If someone wants to photograph me, so be it.
When there’s no school, I go to my spot and drop my pants, exposing my full butt. Reaching this level of freedom means not being fazed. I’d even take a shit in the street if it meant more sunshine. Reaching this level makes you a dangerous person. To be dangerous, rejecting the Real ID is crucial. Look into it. Dr. Andrew Kaufman discusses it a lot. I’ve been posting on this subject recently. Accept it, and we’re doomed. In the UK, they’re pushing Real ID hard; by the end of Parliament, it might be mandatory to work there. But I foresee an uprising—a new freedom movement. Reject Real ID and airport visual scanners. Before you hand over your license, state you don’t want your photo taken. That’s how they catch you.
Anyway, that’s it for this intro. I stretched it a bit. Enjoy the Daylight Saving session. There’s a Q&A not entirely related to Daylight Saving Time, so listen in. Share this with those who need it; action is key with Daylight Saving approaching. Don’t forget to rate, review, or further support us through Patreon at improvementwarriorfitness.com/patreon. Enjoy the podcast, stay strong, stay positive, and be the Improvement Warrior.
Hey, what’s up, Improvement Warrior? Jason Yun back with you again. Thank you for stopping by and welcome to the webinar of the week for the Improvement Warrior University group. Today, we are going to be talking about daylight savings time and why it sucks.
I will be hosting the webinar and the Q&A and take you through a health journey. I was basically lied to, as most people were, about what it takes to get healthy and be healthy. It’s why I never stop searching for the real truth. I always take action on what I learn—either implementing it, discarding it, or saving it for later.
If you’re watching the replay, don’t forget to invite your friends and family into the group so they can catch all of the past and future webinars. We do this every Thursday at 7:34 PM Eastern time. If you need additional help or coaching, reach out to me via DM or email. You should also be on the email list in case Facebook decides to censor the truth, which they have been known to do. I will find the best fit for you based on your goals and starting point.
So, what’s up Ian? How are you doing? Alright, let’s get started here. I just finished the introduction there. Yeah, so Daylight Savings Time—it sucks. After doing some research, I found out it sucks even more because it’s a government thing. We’ll get into it and discuss all of that.
Daylight Savings Time was created in 1918 to save the United States energy, but obviously, we are not using energy the same way today. The U.S. government adopted it back then as an effort to save energy. It was unpopular and repealed two years later, but states still had the option to continue observing it, and most did.
1942 to 1945: President Roosevelt enacted a year-round Daylight Savings Time in order to conserve energy for World War II.
1945 to 1966: Lack of federal regulation led to inconsistencies across the United States.
1966: The Uniform Time Act was established to regulate Daylight Savings Time with strict rules for states.
2007: The Energy Policy Act of 2005 extended Daylight Savings Time by five weeks, starting in 2007.
Between 1986 and 1995, fatal accidents rose by 17% on the Monday following the switch to Daylight Savings Time. People died—the number doesn’t even include non-fatal accidents. Over $9 million in electricity costs were incurred due to Daylight Savings Time, revealing the government’s true financial motives. In Indiana, a 1% rise in residential electricity use cost an extra $9 million, potentially higher in costly energy states like California and New York.
Workplace Injury: 68% increase in days lost due to workplace injury from 1983 to 2006, according to the National Bureau of Economic Research.
Health: The American Psychological Association reported a 25% increase in heart attacks—the hour lost when switching to DST increases heart attack risk by 25%.
There was an 11% spike in depression diagnoses following the autumn time change. The University of Copenhagen found 185,419 depression diagnoses from 1995 to 2012, presumably in Denmark.
Daylight Savings Time wreaks havoc on circadian rhythm, crucial for health. Especially in winter, many wake up and return home in darkness, which is undesirable. Circadian biology is the top health factor. People dislike it getting dark by five o’clock. Regarding my local times, Daylight Savings Time occurs when sunrise moves from 8:05 to 7:06, and sunsets from 6:24 to 5:22.
Wake up and go to bed at the same time daily. Start going to bed earlier before the time shift to sync your circadian rhythm akin to adjusting for time zone changes.
The sun gets weaker as fall approaches in the northern latitude. However, seeing the sunrise daily is the best circadian rhythm setter. It is about the melanopsin receptor, a blue light antenna. Sunrise exposure should be daily—it sets the rhythm. UVA light helps create melatonin from serotonin, essential for good sleep.
Blocking blue light is critical for health. It destroys melatonin and spiking cortisol creates sleep issues. Blue blockers can help keep dopamine levels up. Non-native EMF also influences biology negatively.
Improving your light environment is more crucial than diet or exercise for health. It’s imperative to manage blue light and understand the ramifications of government decisions, like Daylight Savings Time. Stay conscious, stay active, and continue improving your health journey.
When the sun sets, the color temperature is around 16,000K. This varies based on your latitude and the time of year. Lower color temperatures set your circadian rhythm for the day, while higher temperatures at night activate melatonin, aiding sleep. Exposure to artificial light can destroy melatonin and spike cortisol, leading to hormonal imbalances. This imbalance can affect insulin and blood sugar, causing blood sugar to rise without food—just from artificial light exposure on the eyes and skin.
It’s essential to catch the sunrise and UVA light, and take midday breaks to get sun exposure, crucial for vitamin D through UVB rays. In northern states, UVB peaks around November 20th. Meanwhile, places like Florida and Texas enjoy vitamin D all year. As UVB fades, aim to catch UVA later in the day to trigger melatonin production for deeper sleep.
Blocking blue light at night is critical, especially as it gets darker earlier. Car headlights, notorious for high blue light emissions, are damaging. Blue blockers, like Midwestern Light Therapy’s offerings, help mitigate exposure. Different blue blockers serve unique purposes, from daytime computer use to nighttime protection.
Employ tools like Iris, a software program reducing computer blue light, or Wakens’ Amber and Red screens. Keeping your computer’s blue light to a minimum can prevent melatonin destruction. Blue light is pervasive and impacts melatonin and dopamine levels, two crucial hormones for thinking and curiosity. Elevating dopamine can start with witnessing daily sunrises.
Seafood, rich in DHA, is vital for creating DC electric currents that fuel recovery programs in our bodies. DHA converts sunlight into this restorative energy, boosting both function and resilience. If you dislike seafood, consider incorporating it in smoothies.
Grounding—connecting with the earth’s surface—helps replenish electrons, combating electron steal syndrome. This imbalance often results in energy dips and reliance on stimulants. An absence of grounding can lead to significant health issues. Choose good drinking water, avoiding fluoride-laden tap water as it’s a dielectric blocker.
A low-carb, high-fat, high-protein diet aligns with shorter, colder days. Fat, particularly from seafood, is electron-dense. As you align dietary choices with seasonal shifts, energy levels stabilize.
Limit blue-light emitting devices, such as phones and TVs, especially when they operate at high color temperatures mimicking midday sunlight. Engage instead in sunlight exposure activities to naturally elevate dopamine levels.
Nasal breathing prevents electron loss, aiding in deep sleep and overall hydration. Tape your mouth during sleep to enhance breathwork benefits and ensure optimal recovery and performance.
Daylight Saving Time typically leads to increased darkness. Sunlit exposure creates beta endorphins, which foster happiness. A Native American once likened Daylight Saving to cutting a foot off a blanket and sewing it onto another end, humorously questioning its efficacy.
If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments, and remember, staying informed and active in managing your health environment is key to overcoming Daylight Saving’s downsides.
Disclaimer: *The Improvement Warrior newsletter, podcast and blog contains information that may or may not fit with your views and beliefs. My goal is to provide the truth and wake people up to the falsehoods that have been propagated in the health, fitness, nutrition, and wellness industries. Some information provided is Jason’s personal beliefs and habits. Before starting or implementing any information that Jason presents to you consult your physician and do your own research, especially if your doctor is in the modern paradigm of belief themselves. Some links provided are affiliate links and Jason collects a certain percentage from those links. I only promote things I personally use and/or come from people I trust have done their due dilligence on a product or service.
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