Clocks changing

Time to Spring Forward: Clocks Changing in Portugal

Don't forget to adjust your watches! Portugal gears up for the annual clock change this weekend.

Get ready to spring forward as Portugal prepares for the annual clock change on Sunday, March 31. Mainland Portugal and the autonomous regions of Madeira and the Azores will adjust their clocks forward by one hour in the early hours of that day. This tradition marks the start of Daylight Saving Time, bringing longer daylight hours and signaling the arrival of spring. It's a timely reminder for residents to set their alarms an hour ahead to avoid being late for any appointments.

As the clocks move forward, the shift in time can affect people's sleep patterns and daily routines. While gaining an extra hour of daylight in the evening can be energizing, the initial adjustment may disrupt sleep schedules temporarily. Experts recommend gradually adjusting bedtime routines in the days leading up to the time change to minimize the impact on sleep quality and overall well-being.

Interestingly, Daylight Saving Time was first proposed by Benjamin Franklin in 1784 as a way to minimize the use of candles and save energy. Since then, many countries around the world have adopted this practice to make better use of natural daylight and promote energy conservation. In Portugal, the clock change is not just a time adjustment; it's a nod to a historical concept that continues to influence modern lifestyle habits.