Spanish authorities plan to raise the issue of seasonal clock changes within the European Union. This topic is becoming relevant again, as the energy situation in Europe has changed significantly in recent years. Although the electricity savings from changing the clocks are barely noticeable, the debate remains intense.
Many believe that switching between summer and winter time has a negative impact on well-being. However, the scientific community has not reached a consensus on this issue. The human body, like all living things, follows daily rhythms set by the alternation of night and day. Sunlight is the main cue for our internal biological clock. Modern life demands precise scheduling, and adjusting the clocks helps align our routines with natural changes in daylight throughout the year.
Surveys in Spain have shown that most residents are against the clock change. But looking deeper, it’s clear that the brief discomfort some people feel after adjusting to a new time quickly fades. Usually, the body fully adapts within a few days. Far more harmful to health is a constant mismatch between social timetables and the solar cycle. If Spain were to abandon clock changes, then at certain times of year, people would either wake up too early or too late compared to sunrise, which could disrupt their biological rhythms.
From a medical standpoint, disruption of circadian rhythms is linked to an increased risk of various diseases—from cardiovascular to metabolic disorders. Even meal timing can affect overall health. That is why maintaining a balance between daily routines and natural light is considered more important than the temporary inconveniences caused by changing the clocks.
As for energy savings, recent studies suggest that changing the clocks does not produce significant effects. Most calculations were made before the widespread adoption of solar panels and other renewable sources. Today, the main challenge is to cover the evening peak in demand, when the sun has already set. Adjusting the clock does not solve this issue, and savings from lighting have become minimal with the rise of LED lamps. The impact may vary across regions, but overall, experts agree: there is no substantial benefit for the energy sector.
In the end, despite ongoing debates, experts recommend not fearing seasonal time changes. The key is to try waking up with the first rays of sunlight and not rely solely on an alarm clock. This approach can help maintain good health and align your body with natural rhythms.
