Falling back? Four Tips for Fall Time Change
Don’t let this year’s “fall back” knock you off your feet. We’ve created a list to help Florida homeowners with everything from managing a new schedule, to reducing stress, to getting enough sleep for your overall wellbeing. As you turn your clocks back one hour this month, consider these four simple strategies.
- Optimize Sleep: Many believe that that you’ll gain an extra hour of sleep with this time change, but that only works if you also keep a consistent bedtime. Relaxing activities like meditation, reading, or a warm bath in the evening can all help you achieve better sleep. Dark and quiet is typically ideal for your bedroom, but everyone differs. In addition to room lighting, dim your clock lights and other electronic light sources to prevent visual annoyances. The goal is 7-9 hours of sleep per night for optimal function and health.
- Create a Schedule: Creating an activity schedule or daily ritual may help you maintain consistency in your sleep cycle. If you have kids or pets, consider shifting eating and bedtime schedules more slowly this month, such as 15-minute increment adjustments to ease into the change. Notably, with the shorter and shorter days ahead, there will be less time to get everything done, which is why an organized calendar is crucial for managing the time change. As the sun is setting earlier, you may find yourself wanting to be indoors more this time of year. Use this time to rest, calendar upcoming events, and enjoy the comforts of your home before the busy holiday season.
- Manage Stress: When creating your new schedule, be sure to include those wind-down activities like mediation or reading for relaxation. Tiring yourself out with physical activity during the day may also help you sleep better that night. Autumn activities abound for folks living in and around Tampa. There is no shortage of events and outdoor adventures to expel energy and alleviate stress on any given day in Florida. One of the best parts about living on the Gulf coast is that we have some of the most beautiful fall weather in the world. Get out and enjoy the mild temperatures and beautiful beaches.
- Improve Design: If your calendar allows for a home design project, consider transitioning to a new paint color. Cool paint-colors (gray, blue, and beige) can create a more tranquil environment. You may also consider investing in light-blocking blinds and curtains. For a cost-free room design project, refer to the rules of Feng Shui, which recommend placing your bed in a corner that is diagonally opposite from and farthest away from the exit door. In addition to design and décor, consider conducting bi-annual maintenance around your home, such as changing the battery in your smoke or carbon dioxide detectors when you reset your clocks.
We hope these tips help you and other homeowners create enjoyable living spaces that bring both tranquility and happiness this season.
As full-service real estate professionals, we can align you with top-notch experts ready to help guide you through an array of home-related projects. If you’re a Florida resident needing assistance in finding the perfect home or selling your current property, call Dick and Karla Nielsen at 813-294-5786.
