Households warned to avoid going to sleep at 'normal' time this weekend for key reason

The this weekend as brings with it darker mornings and evenings. The good news is Brits can enjoy an extra hour's sleep on Saturday night into Sunday morning.

Clocks will go back one hour at 2am on Sunday, October 27. While many will be excited about the extra sleep, many will be worried about how this may disrupt their body clock.

Sleep expert from Mattress Online, James Wilson, has offered advice to those who want to make sure they still get good sleep as the clocks change.

Known as The Sleep Geek, James advises people to avoid sleeping at their usual time on Saturday night.

He said: "For many of us the biggest issue with the clocks changing is the stress it causes us. We need to put it in perspective when it comes to how it impacts our sleep timing. Most of us will lie in on a weekend, so the adjustment in wake-up time is not too noticeable.

"One thing to consider though, is that on Sunday night don't delay going to bed to fall asleep at your 'normal' time. Your normal time that night will be an hour later than the day before, so it's important to go to bed when you feel sleepy.

"Additionally, getting natural light slightly later in your day on Sunday will help set your body clock and could help your body adjust to the change faster. Most of us will have adjusted after one or two nights."

James also advises people of how to deal with the stress and anxiety they may be feeling ahead of the clocks going back.

He continued: "If you're worrying about getting to sleep, then try some self-care to relax before bed.

"This could be listening to calming music, reading a book or taking a warm bath. Self-care habits include limiting your caffeinated drinks intake, exercising regularly and no alcohol before bed."

James added that you can help your sleeping pattern by waking up at around the same time each day if possible, including weekends.

He says you should only go to sleep when you actually feel sleepy, though.