Although many have mixed reviews about Daylight Saving Time, I absolutely love it because, in my mind, it’s the symbolic kick-off of Spring. Happiness! And yes, while we’ll be sacrificing an hour of sleep the tradeoff is so worth it: an extra hour of daylight to enjoy each evening. That added hour signals the return of energy, excitement, and all those perfect-for-twilight activities we gave up back in November. It’s been a desperately long winter, so we’ve come up with a little list of things to do on Daylight Savings to brighten up your springtime evenings, literally and figuratively!
So when does Daylight Savings start in 2021? Sooner than you might think—get ready to change those clocks on March 14th .
I like to use this newfound time to appreciate the little things that go unnoticed during the darkness of winter. The daffodils pushing their way through the dirt, the smell of grass after rain, and the pleasure of enjoying some frozen yogurt on a stoop as the sun goes down. Enjoy soft, sunny mornings and stretch out your evenings to include a delicious post-dinner walk. Is there anything better?
Here are 10 things to do on Daylight Savings:
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Treat family dinner like it’s a party.
Drag a table and chairs out to the front porch, dust off your prettiest linens, and light some candles the next time your pod gathers around the dinner table. Don’t be afraid to surround yourself with beauty! There are few things as special as having dinner al fresco—it’s a soul-nourishing, delicious way to connect with loved ones and take advantage of that sweet sunset hour. It’s a huge mood booster after a long day of work and school, and the perfect way to relax into the evening.
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Start the search for your new favorite sunscreen.
It’s never too early in the season to start slathering on some sunscreen. Since everyone’s skin is different, it’s always a good idea to take the time and find the one that is just right for you. You don’t want to spend the next six months dreading the experience and trying to find excuses to avoid it. Sorry to be a bummer, but hats and masks just aren’t enough! You still need to slather on some sun protection every day (and yes, even inside, especially if you work near a window). So do you prefer a serum? A physical sunscreen? An oil-free sunscreen? A mineral sunscreen? A zinc sunscreen? Take the time to parse through a few samples, find your go-to, and keep your skin healthy and safe.
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Bring the outdoors in and pick up some cheerful new plants at your local plant shop. Not only do indoor plants improve air quality, but they make every room look happier and more peaceful. Given that most of us are spending a lot of time indoors these days, it is also an affordable way to redecorate, making it the perfect way to change up your space. Even if you’ve never considered yourself much of a plant person, there’s no time like the present to get started. Make an event of it!
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Post love notes all over your neighborhood.
Spread a little springtime cheer and pepper your neighborhood with post-it style sweet love notes. Communities are hurting right now, and you never know how even a simple, anonymous note could brighten someone’s day. If you have kids, making and posting love notes is a great way to keep your family busy for a few hours. Alternatively, it can be a gentle, quiet way to have a little meditative alone time. Take a golden hour walk and share the love with your neighbors this Daylight Savings.
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Start or reignite a book club with friends.
Has anyone else had a really difficult time reading this past year? It’s no wonder, given the fact that our brain space has been overtaken by the myriad difficult circumstances of the last twelve months. Dust off those cobwebs, pick one of this season’s exciting new releases, a memoir, or one of our editor’s favorites, and set a time to discuss them with pals. Hop on a Zoom or use the extra hour of sunlight and warmer weather for safe, socially-distanced park gatherings for your book club gathering—and make this cheeseboard.
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Spring cleaning doesn’t just have to refer to decluttering your home—though I often find that doing a deep clean and purging of my space can lead to a clearer headspace. Take a long walk, assess your needs, and find ways to nurture yourself so you have the space to set goals within the parameters of our current realities. It’s never too late to get a fresh start and create deep shifts that can lead to a more meaningful and rich life—discovering your Ikagi can also help you unlock your life’s purpose!. This can be as small as taking a daily morning walk or setting aside an hour a day to work on a fulfilling project, journal, or even taking a bath.
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Take on a rehab project by giving new life to an old piece of furniture.
I can’t be the only one looking around my apartment on a daily basis wondering what I could possibly do to freshen up the place. Hit up a flea market, online marketplace, or find an old piece of furniture in your home and give it a facelift. It’s more affordable than investing in a new piece and will be a fun way to spend a weekend (or longer, depending on how ambitious you are!) Throw on a new podcast, dust off your tools, and before you know it you’ll have a beautiful piece of furniture to breathe new life into your space.
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Cinnamon rolls are always a good idea. And since almost all recipes call for overnight dough proofing, it’s the perfect way to use that extra hour of light. Can you imagine a more delightful morning treat? It’s the best gift you could give yourself. Once considered a seasonal food, people seem to be coming around to the idea that cinnamon rolls should absolutely be enjoyed year-round, and I for one am glad we have finally accepted this fact.
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Whether you’re feeling suck in a rut or just want a little extra motivation, chatting with someone who champions your work can be incredibly inspiring. You will likely get a fresh perspective on how to tackle aspects of your life or career that could use a little extra guidance. It’s always helpful to get advice from someone on the outside looking in, it will feel incredibly refreshing and renewing. There’s nothing like a little pep talk from someone you think highly of for a new lease on anything that’s been on your mind.
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Catch the sunset with a late afternoon walk.
Enjoy the extra hour of daylight with a meandering walk through your favorite park, beach, or part of town. A post-dinner walk is an ideal wind down and an easy way to get centered and grounded in your thoughts—even daydream a little. It’s also a delightful opportunity to take in the cherished little details that appear when the seasons change.
This post was originally published on March 9, 2020, and has since been updated.
