Earlier winter time switch in 2026

The switch to winter time in 2026 will occur on October 25, earlier than usual, according to the European calendar, which sets the time change on the last Sunday of October. This means clocks will be set back by one hour during the night of Saturday 24 to Sunday 25 October, giving people an extra hour of sleep.

Potential health effects of the time change

The time change may disrupt the body for several days, potentially causing fatigue, mood swings, difficulty adapting, and digestive issues. This is because the body's internal clock, or circadian rhythm, can take time to adjust to the new schedule.

Adjustment tips from the government

According to the government, it takes a few days for the biological clock to adjust to the change. To help with this, recommendations include maintaining regular sleep schedules, being exposed to morning light, and limiting stimulants such as coffee and screens in the evening.

Manual clock adjustment advised

It is also important to manually adjust clocks, as electronic devices may not always update automatically. This ensures that all devices are synchronized with the new time, reducing confusion and potential disruptions.

Prevalence of sleep disorders in France

Sleep disorders affect more than one in five people in France, according to the Inserm. These disorders can increase the risk of depression, cardiovascular diseases, and stress, highlighting the importance of good sleep hygiene.

French sleep habits and recommendations

The Santé publique France barometer reported that in 2017, adults averaged 6 hours and 42 minutes of sleep per day during the week, below the recommended minimum of seven hours. On weekends, the average increased to 7 hours and 26 minutes, resulting in an overall average of 6 hours and 55 minutes of sleep per day.

Sleep recommendations from experts

To improve sleep, the National Institute of Sleep and Vigilance recommends respecting sleep rhythms and needs, maintaining consistent wake-up and bedtime schedules, eating balanced meals, engaging in regular physical activity, adjusting room temperature between 18 and 20 degrees Celsius, and going to bed as soon as the first signs of fatigue appear, such as yawns or drooping eyelids.