Light, could it be the missing link in your wellness routine?

Light plays a critical role in regulating many aspects of our health and wellness, including our sleep-wake cycle, mood, alertness, and overall well-being. It is sometimes referred to as the "missing link" because it is often overlooked in discussions about health and wellness.

Our bodies have an internal clock known as the circadian rhythm, which is responsible for regulating many physiological processes, including our sleep-wake cycle. This internal clock is influenced by external cues, such as light and darkness. Exposure to natural light during the day helps to synchronize our internal clock with the external environment, which in turn helps us to feel more alert and awake during the day, and sleep better at night.

On the other hand, exposure to artificial light at night, in particular the blue light emitted by electronic devices, can disrupt our internal clock and interfere with our sleep. This can lead to a range of negative health effects, including fatigue, mood disturbances, and an increased risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

In addition to its effects on our sleep-wake cycle, light also has a direct impact on our mood and overall well-being. Exposure to natural light has been shown to improve mood, reduce stress, and enhance cognitive function. Conversely, lack of exposure to natural light can contribute to depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders.

An interesting and exciting area of study that has garned much attention recently is the effects of red light, also known as low-level light therapy or photobiomodulation on our overall health. There has been an intriguing amount of research suggesting the benefits of red light therapy to help regulate the body's natural sleep-wake cycle(1), leading to better sleep quality and improved overall health. Additionally, it has been shown to help improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety(2).

Overall, light is a crucial factor in promoting and maintaining good health and wellness. By understanding the importance of light and taking steps to optimize our exposure to natural light as well as red light, we can improve our overall health and well-being. To learn more about the power of red light, book a complimentary consultation with one of our Health Coaches today!

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Sources:

1. Red Light and the Sleep Quality and Endurance Performance of Chinese Female Basketball Players: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3499892/

2. Improvement in Depression Scores After 1 Hour of Light Therapy Treatment in Patients With Seasonal Affective Disorder: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5336550/