EN 
NL What is winter time?
When the clock is changed in winter, we basically return to the geographical time zone we are in. The term winter time originated after the introduction of daylight saving time. The summer time was originally conceived to save energy and costs. In summer, the sun rises so early that people are often still asleep. By turning back the clock, the sun rises later and sets later. So you have longer light during the day, which would reduce energy costs. The assumption that summer time actually saves energy is now outdated. Because winter time is our standard time, winter time is closest to our circadian rhythm (natural rhythm).
Circadian rhythm
Our Circadian rhythm is a biological day and night rhythm. We all have a biological clock that controls the various systems in our body. Think of our heart rate, sleep rhythm, temperature, metabolism, blood pressure and hormone release. When your biorhythms are out of sync with your daily schedule, our bodies do not function optimally. Nowadays, we actually have too much choice in when we do things. When you are hungry you dive into the fridge and satisfy the need to eat something. Phone use and watching television make us go to bed later than our natural rhythm indicates. Electricity and our 24-hour society means we can go to the gym at night these days. This can cause your lifestyle to be out of sync with your natural rhythm.
What do you notice during winter time?
Many people notice that they become a bit more dejected with the introduction of winter time. This has not so much something to do with the winter time but with the number of hours of daylight. Chances are you go to work in the dark and return home in the dark as well. Because winter time is more in tune with your natural clock, it actually has a positive effect on your sleep and stress levels. But then you have to get a good handle on other factors that you can influence yourself
Our tips for getting used to winter time quickly!
- Our main tip is to go outside during the day and get enough daylight. Once daylight enters through the eyes, your melatonin levels drop in your body. This hormone is important for your sleep-wake rhythm. Under the influence of light, our body's natural cortisol rises. This is the signal for our body to wake up. Cortisol is not necessarily negative. On the contrary, it is necessary to take action. The more energy you have during the day the more the body also feels the need to go back to sleep on time. The best time is to go outside around noon for half an hour to an hour!
- Because light interferes with the production of the sleep hormone melatonin, it is wise not to overexpose yourself to light at least an hour before your desired bedtime. We know that blue light from our phones and television can mimic daylight very well. So make sure you don't watch television or spend a long time on your phone before going to sleep!
- Go to bed an hour later the Saturday night before winter time starts so that you wake up at your normal time on Sunday. This way, you'll be in your natural rhythm the fastest!
Good luck!
