Using Light For Health

Light directs a number of key aspects of our physiology and can strongly impact our overall health and well-being. Light directly impacts the following;

• mood

• sleep

• wakefulness

• focus

• hormone levels

• immune system

• our ability to cope with stress

Given that light has tremendous positive effects, I will outline a few of the ways in which we can harness the power of light to improve our mental and physical health.

Anyone who is an avid listener of the Huberman Lab Podcast has one thing drilled into their minds…..

VIEW MORNING SUNLIGHT!

Viewing morning sunlight increases early day cortisol release, regulates your circadian clock, positively influences your immune system, metabolism, and ability to focus during the day. Getting outside for just 5-10 minutes on sunny days and 20 minutes on cloudy days is all you need.

Additionally, viewing late afternoon/evening sunlight communicates to our circadian clock that it is evening and time to begin the process of transitioning to sleep that night due to that particular wavelength of light.

If viewing morning light is not an option for you, either because you are at work before the sun rises or are a shift worker, consider an artificial light source in the AM. I use this one, since I fall into this category in the winter. I find it incredibly helpful!

RED LIGHT THERAPY

Red light therapy is a modality used in my office. It is becoming more and more common and has been shown to improve eyesight in individuals older than 40. It also can assist with acne, hair growth, wound healing, and more. This is done with a specific red light, not just any bulb found online on in the hardware store. I use this product from our friends over at Platinum LED.