The clock change is a subject that raises questions and discussion every year. When exactly should the clocks be moved? How does the change affect our health and daily habits? And what can we do to cope better with moving the hands? In this article you will find detailed information about the change to summer and winter time in 2025, along with practical advice on preparing for it.
Guide:
Why do we move the clocks?
Change to summer time 2025. When do we move the clocks?
How to prepare for the change from winter to summer time?
Change to winter time 2025. When do we move the clocks?
How to make the most of the change from summer to winter time?
How to sleep well after the clock change?
Common questions and answers about the clock change
Why do we move the clocks?
The clock change was introduced over 100 years ago, mainly with energy saving in mind. During the First World War, Germany was the first to move the clocks in order to make better use of daylight and so reduce electricity consumption. Other countries, Poland among them, soon introduced similar rules.
Moving the clocks mattered particularly at a time when electric light was one of the main costs for households and industry. Longer days meant less need for artificial lighting, which brought real savings.
Today, however, that argument is losing force. Thanks to modern technology and energy-efficient lighting, the clock change no longer significantly affects energy use. What is more, research shows that moving the clocks can cause health problems such as sleep disturbance, fatigue or reduced concentration.
Despite growing criticism, the clock change still applies in many countries, Poland included. It is worth remembering, though, that this is an issue that returns regularly to public debate, and the European Union has been considering abolishing the practice for years.
Change to summer time 2025. When do we move the clocks?
In 2025 we move the clocks to summer time on Sunday 30 March. At 2:00 in the night the hands go forward one hour, which means we sleep an hour less.
Summer time aims to make better use of daylight in the afternoon and evening. We can enjoy longer, brighter evenings, which encourages activity outdoors, walks or meetings with family and friends.
How to prepare for the change from winter to summer time?
Shift your sleeping hours gradually: Start going to bed 15–20 minutes earlier a few days before the change. Your body will then adapt to the new rhythm more easily.
Daylight in the morning: After the change, try to spend as much time as possible outdoors in the morning. Natural light will help your body clock "reset".
Set reminders: It is worth planning to move traditional clocks in advance so you do not forget the change, especially if you have important plans for Sunday.
Change to winter time 2025. When do we move the clocks?
The switch to winter time happens on Sunday 26 October. At 3:00 in the night the clocks go back one hour, which means we gain an extra hour of sleep.
Winter time, also called standard time, is closer to the natural rhythm of the day. Mornings become brighter, which makes getting up and starting the day easier. Shorter days and earlier dusk can, however, affect mood and energy levels, especially in the autumn and winter months.
How to make the most of the change from summer to winter time?
Use the extra hour: Spend it on relaxation, physical activity or sleep. It is the ideal moment to catch up on recovery.
Keep to a routine: Tempting though the extra hour is, try to keep your waking and bedtimes steady so you do not disrupt your body clock.
Adjust the lighting: Use bright artificial light at home to offset the effect of earlier dusk on your mood and energy.
How to sleep well after the clock change
The clock change, in either direction, affects our bodies because it disrupts the natural daily rhythm. To minimise the negative effects, a few simple habits are worth adopting:
Prepare in advance. A few days before the change, start adjusting your sleeping hours. Even 15-minute differences can help the body adapt to the new rhythm more easily.
Exposure to light. Natural light is key to regulating the body clock. After the change, spend more time outdoors, especially in the morning.
Avoid coffee in the evening. Limit caffeine in the afternoon and evening. You will fall asleep more easily and avoid waking during the night.
Create an evening ritual. Before sleep, give up screens that emit blue light (phone, computer, television). Read a book, take a warm bath or meditate instead, to prepare the body for sleep.
Be consistent. Try to go to bed and get up at the same time every day. Regularity is key to adapting quickly to the clock change.
Common questions and answers about the clock change
1. When in 2025 do we move the clocks to summer time?
The change to summer time happens on the night of 29–30 March 2025. At 2:00 we move the clocks forward one hour.
2. When do we move the clocks to winter time in 2025?
The change to winter time takes place on the night of 25–26 October 2025. At 3:00 we put the clocks back one hour.
3. Do smartphones and computers change the time automatically?
Most modern devices such as smartphones, tablets or computers change the time automatically, provided the right time zone is set. It is worth making sure the automatic time change function is switched on.
4. Why have some countries given up the clock change?
Countries such as Japan, Russia and Iceland have given up moving the clocks, having concluded that it brings no significant economic benefit and affects citizens' health negatively.
5. Is Poland planning to abolish the clock change?
Although there have been debates in the European Union about abolishing the clock change, no decision to end the practice has been taken in Poland so far. In 2025 the changes will take place according to the existing rules.
6. How does the clock change affect health?
The clock change can cause problems with concentration, drowsiness and fatigue. Some people have also shown an increased risk of road accidents and heart problems, especially after moving the clocks to summer time.
