A Cozy Shift in Time

Daylight Saving Time (DST) was originally implemented to make the most of daylight during the longer days of spring and summer. 

The concept is pretty straightforward: moving clocks forward an hour in spring provides an extra hour of evening sunlight, which can save energy and allow more time for outdoor activities. In the fall, clocks are turned back to mark the end of DST and signal the shift to shorter days as winter approaches. This change aligns waking hours more closely with sunrise and sunset, and grants more daylight during the season's earlier evenings.

The origins of Daylight Saving Time can be traced back to the early 20th century, initially adopted in the U.S. during World War I and again in World War II to conserve fuel. However, this practice led to significant instability across states as each region adopted different timekeeping rules. To address this confusion, the Uniform Time Act of 1966 established a nationwide DST standard, which specified unwavering start and end dates. Despite continued present day discussions of its effectiveness or relevance, the annual "fall back" continues to be an ingrained part of our calendars, as it marks the transition into a new season.

This year, we will "fall back" and set our clocks back an hour on Sunday, November 3, at 2:00 a.m. For many, this extra hour is a delightful breath of fresh air - a welcome relief from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It is an opportunity to appreciate a slower morning, savor a cup of coffee, or catch a few extra Zs as we prepare for the colder months ahead. As the days grow shorter and winter approaches, this little gift of time invites us to reset, recharge, and embrace the season's comforting rhythm. "Fall back" serves as a gentle reminder to immerse ourselves in winter's cozy and reflective atmosphere, and encourages us to prepare for the months ahead with renewed energy and anticipation.