Winter Time Change: Everything You Need to Know About Turning the Clocks Back

Every year in autumn, the hands of our clocks are turned back one hour to mark the winter time change. This well-known ritual often raises questions: Why do we change the time? How does it affect our daily lives and health? And above all, how long will this practice continue?

In this article, we take a closer look at the origin, purpose, and impact of the winter time change.

📅 When Does the Winter Time Change Take Place?

In Europe, the switch to winter time happens on the last weekend of October, from Saturday night to Sunday morning. At 3:00 a.m., the time is set back to 2:00 a.m. — meaning we gain an extra hour of sleep. This small adjustment marks the end of daylight saving time and a return to what is called “standard time.”

For example, if you go to bed at midnight, your alarm clock will show one hour less the next day. Digital devices usually update automatically, but traditional clocks need to be reset manually.

🕰️ Why Do We Change the Time?

The idea of changing the time dates back to the 18th century, when Benjamin Franklin suggested making better use of natural daylight to save energy. However, the measure was not actually implemented until the 20th century.

In France, this practice was introduced in 1976 after the first oil crisis. The goal was to reduce electricity consumption by making better use of daylight.

By shifting human activity to match natural light, the need for artificial lighting was reduced. While the energy savings today are less significant than they were back then, this remains one of the main arguments in favor of changing the time.

🌞 What’s the Difference Between Summer Time and Winter Time?

Summer Time: Clocks are set forward one hour (UTC+2 in France). Evenings are longer and sunnier.

Winter Time: Clocks are set back to standard time (UTC+1). The sun rises earlier in the morning but sets earlier in the evening as well.

This shift affects our biological rhythm: our daily activities no longer align with daylight in the same way, which can disrupt our internal clock for a few days.

🧠 The Effects of the Time Change on the Body

Even though we “gain” an hour of sleep in autumn, the winter time change can influence our circadian rhythm — our internal biological clock.

Some common effects include:

Increased fatigue or drowsiness

Difficulty falling asleep or waking up earlier than usual

Irritability or temporary lack of focus

Fortunately, most people adapt quickly. On average, it takes between 2 and 5 days for the body to adjust. Experts recommend preparing for the transition by going to bed a little earlier in the days leading up to the change and getting plenty of morning sunlight.

🏙️ An Impact Beyond Health

The time change also has economic and social impacts.

Transport and logistics: Airlines and rail companies must adjust their schedules, requiring precise coordination.

Energy: Although the savings are smaller nowadays, the aim remains to reduce electricity use during peak hours.

Social life: Since it gets dark earlier, outdoor activities tend to decrease while indoor activities increase.

🇪🇺 Is the Time Change Coming to an End?

For several years now, this issue has been debated within the European Union. In 2018, a large public consultation revealed that a majority of citizens wanted to abolish the time change.

Parlement européen even voted in favor of ending the seasonal time shift. Each member state would then have to decide whether to remain permanently on summer time or winter time. However, discussions among EU countries have slowed the process, and the time change remains in effect today.

🌿 How to Cope with the Winter Time Change

Here are some practical tips to make the transition smoother:

Anticipate the shift: Gradually adjust your bedtime a few days in advance.

Get natural light exposure in the morning to regulate your internal clock.

Stick to a consistent routine for meals, sleep, and daily activities.

Exercise regularly to improve sleep quality.

Avoid screens late at night, as blue light disrupts melatonin production.

⏳ A Tradition That May Evolve

The winter time change has been a long-standing tradition, but its future is uncertain. Between the argument of energy savings and growing concerns about health impacts, Europe may soon be at a turning point.

Until any official decision is made, this seasonal ritual remains part of our autumn routine. So, on the last weekend of October, don’t forget: at 3:00 a.m., it will be 2:00 a.m.!