The clocks going back can leave some people feeling a little dazed and confused, for more reasons than just that extra hour's sleep. It may take a while for your body to adjust to the new times, especially as it's a lot lighter in the mornings at first, but darker a lot quicker in the afternoons.

Here are some ways to get yourself back in sync and not fall victim to the onset of shorter days.

Get more sun

There isn't much time to bask in the daylight from November onwards, so make the most of it when you can, even if it is a gloomy day. Make that walk in the morning a little bit longer or get yourself outside during your lunch break to shake off any sluggish feelings. It's easy to feel tired at around 6pm when it's practically pitch black outside, but any energy you can grasp from your day could help keep you alert for longer.

If your daily workout is a run around the park in the evening, perhaps consider switching your routine to the morning. Taking a jog while it's light will make it a much more enjoyable experience and is the perfect way to start your day.

Light up your home

While you may be tempted to crawl into bed the moment you step in your front door, don't succumb to the darkness. Lamps and fairy lights are cosy but aren't the way forward if you need that extra boost in the evenings. Investing in a light therapy box, which aims to counteract your brain's inclination to provide melatonin (sleep hormone) when the sky is dark, could be the answer. Clinical psychologist Michael Breus, PhD, recommends purchasing one with an alertness-promoting blue light.

“Blue light mimics sunlight and tells the brain to stop producing melatonin, the chemical that starts your brain’s sleep engine,” he explained to Time magazine.

If you want a decent night's sleep, it's advised not to use the light after 7pm, as it may keep you up for hours.

Manage the kids' routine

Lastly, if you have kids, here's a tip on how to cope with the next time the clocks go back. Try getting them into a routine the week before, putting them to bed earlier and earlier in the days leading up to the date. By the time the day comes around, hopefully your young children won't be awake an hour earlier and pestering you - instead they'll be sound asleep in their beds, like normal.

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