More on Light

natural light
“strip lighting”

More on Light

Last week I listened to a discussion with those people who felt unwell when exposed to fluorescent lights or LED lights. 

Some people are more affected by this phenomenon than others. The exact reasons are not fully understood. However, it is now known that we need to absorb the vibrations from the full spectrum of “observable” light i.e. all the colours of the rainbow or ‘natural light’. These vibrations are absorbed by the eyes and go via the optic nerve directly to the brain. 

Over exposure to artificial light decreases levels of melatonin in the brain, a hormone that is created in the brain by the pineal gland. When interrupted it can impact our mental and psychological functioning, including our ability to sleep and think clearly. The timing and release of hormones and also the regulation of blood pressure is affected. 

In Sweden exposure to natural or full spectrum light for even a portion of the day has been found to be as effective as anti-depressants for the relief of depression during their long, dark winters. The added benefit is that there are no side effects unless you count more energy and a more positive outlook on life.

Fluorescent lights flicker at a very rapid rate, sometimes undiscernible to the conscious mind; sometimes at a rate that is easily observed, which is more unpleasant. Both situations cause headaches, tension, irritability and/or lack of concentration. This becomes significant in large office blocks where people are often a long way from the windows or, even worse, in rooms that have no windows at all. This has to affect motivation, mood and productivity over time. It is something to consider in large workshops, factory assembly spaces and classrooms as well as in our own homes. Is the lighting affecting productivity or contributing to absenteeism and mental health?

LED lights are strange, especially the bright white kinds. They do not so much light a room as remove the darkness. They can be disturbing. The “warm” lights are easier to tolerate. I don’t know what wavelength of light they produce. I wonder what effect the new street lights and car lights have on us? Also, how does the lighting in supermarkets and shopping malls affect those who work there?

Suffice to say that if you feel not quite yourself at work, in your office at home or feel enervated by the dark days of winter, invest is a full-spectrum light. They are available as bulbs to fit into desk lamps or as larger, therapeutic light boxes.

Exposure to full spectrum light can lift mood, increase energy and aid restful sleep and puts less of a strain on the eyes.  A good result from simply replacing a light bulb. Better yet, take a walk outside sometime during the day.

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