Every year, as the days get shorter and the nights get longer, we transition to winter time. Although this adjustment was once introduced with certain goals in mind, today the system evokes mixed reactions. Let's take a look at the origins of winter time, why it is not to everyone's liking and recent considerations and studies.
The origins of summer time:
The introduction of winter time has its origins in the need to save energy and optimise natural daylight. During World War I, several countries, including Germany and the UK, introduced the system of summer time and winter time as a measure to save fuel. By moving the clocks forward one hour in summer and back again in autumn, the aim was to make better use of daylight and reduce energy consumption.
Why people are not happy with summer time:
- Biological and Sleep Disruption: The transition to winter time can disrupt people's internal biological clocks. Adjusting the clock can lead to sleep problems and disruption of natural circadian rhythms, affecting overall health and well-being.
- Impact on Mental Health: Some studies suggest that winter time changes may be linked to an increase in stress, anxiety and depression in some individuals. The shorter days and reduced exposure to natural light may contribute to these effects.
- Safety Considerations: Although the original purpose of winter time was to save energy, modern benefits in this area are debatable. Moreover, concerns have been raised about safety, especially in relation to the increased risk of accidents.
- Our professional opinion is that people simply need a dose of morning light in the morning, for example, to wake up sufficiently. All discussion of this should ensure that we are more likely to get our dose of light in the morning. Specifically, this means that we should do away with daylight saving time and only want to live in winter time (also in summer ), because then we get more natural daylight in the morning.
Recent considerations and studies:
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of debate worldwide about winter time and whether the system should be maintained, adjusted or even abolished. Some countries have reconsidered whether to change the clock, while others are considering permanent daylight saving time or permanent standard time.
Studies have shown that the health effects of winter time should be taken seriously. Some countries have already taken steps to review the use of winter time based on these findings and improve the well-being of their populations.
In short, while winter time was once introduced with specific goals, modern considerations and studies bring into question its feasibility and health effects. Whether we will eventually say goodbye to winter time, adjust the system or keep it as it is, remains a subject of debate and change.
