Today, clocks across most of Canada turned back one hour, marking the end of daylight time and the beginning of Standard Time. This shift, while granting many Canadians an extra hour of sleep, will also mean that darkness will settle in earlier in the evenings.
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Early Sunrise, Early Sunset
- As the clocks fall back, sunrise will now occur an hour earlier each morning, brightening the mornings for Canadians except in Yukon, most of Saskatchewan, and parts of eastern Quebec, where clocks remain unchanged year-round.
The Debate Over Daylight Time
Despite frequent discussions on whether to abolish daylight time altogether, Canada has yet to make a final decision on permanent Standard Time. A few provinces have expressed readiness to end the biannual clock changes if the United States follows suit, yet a nationwide change remains uncertain.
Rebecca Robillard, a professor at the University of Ottawa and co-chair of the Canadian Sleep Research Consortium, advocates for the shift, citing health benefits. Studies indicate that the twice-yearly time change has links to several health complications, including:
- Headaches
- Cardiovascular issues
- Increased rates of depression
Robillard suggests that sticking to Standard Time year-round may be beneficial for Canadians’ well-being, aligning better with natural circadian rhythms.
Health Implications and Future Adjustments
Many researchers argue that our bodies adapt better to Standard Time, aligning with natural sunlight patterns, which can reduce health risks associated with disrupted sleep cycles. Until changes are made, Canadians will continue adjusting to the twice-yearly switch, with daylight time resuming on March 9, 2025.
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Key Takeaways: The Shift to Standard Time
- Earlier Mornings, Darker Evenings: Canadians will experience brighter mornings but earlier sunsets.
- Health Considerations: Studies suggest that remaining on Standard Time could benefit public health.
- Future Changes: With potential adjustments on the horizon, Canadians may eventually see a shift to a permanent time standard if cross-border support is reached.