The practice of switching to summer and winter time exists in more than seventy countries around the world, including Ukraine. The European Parliament adopted a decision to abolish seasonal time changes in the EU starting from 2021, but this norm has not been implemented yet. The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine supported the bill to abandon the clock change and establish winter time as a permanent standard, but this law has not come into force as it was not signed by the head of state.
The idea of changing the clock originated in the 18th century, and mass application began in 1908. In Ukraine, the transition to summer time was introduced in 1916-1917. Today, transitions to summer and winter time have virtually no significant impact on energy savings, estimating their effectiveness at no more than 2%.
Experts recommend the following measures to minimize discomfort from the transition to winter time:
- Adjust the sleep schedule 2-3 days before the transition;
- Ensure bright lighting in the morning;
- Engage in light physical activity after waking up;
- Avoid intense workouts in the evening and limit caffeine and alcohol intake;
- Have breakfast with an emphasis on protein and limit screen use before bedtime;
- Gradually return to a normal sleep schedule after the transition.
Negative consequences of the transition to winter time may affect human biological rhythms, health, and well-being. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the body's adaptation to this change.
The clock change to winter time will take place in Ukraine on the night of October 25-26, 2025. The emergence of the idea of changing the clock in the 18th century and the ongoing discussions about signing the bill for permanent winter time indicate the relevance and importance of this topic for our country.