Artificial light is normally relied on in most homes. Some people, however, advocate the use of the natural light in their home. This is because natural sunlight actually has some very good health benefits. So good in fact that schools, businesses, and new home builders are including natural light into all of their designs. We talked to home window specialists from All-West Glass Ltd. in Edmonton and they helped us understand why natural light is so important. Discover the seven health benefits of incorporating natural light in the home.
- Natural light reduces risks of becoming nearsighted. Research suggests that three hours of exposure to natural light outdoors can reduce chances of nearsightedness in young children and adults. Natural light stimulates dopamine production in the eye.
- Natural daylight helps maintain a proper circadian rhythm. This is important in improving a person’s sleep patterns. If a person is not exposed to the natural 24-hour light cycle, their sleep cycle can deviate and change by as much as two hours daily.
- Daylight improves productivity. The Heschong Mahone Group completed a study on natural light and found that it decreased absenteeism. Research also revealed that this increased productivity. In retail, natural light was shown to increase sales in a retail environment. Entrepreneurs who work from home may see improved productivity when introducing natural light into the equation.
- Natural lighting reduces eye strain in individuals. The eyes don’t work nearly as hard when relying on natural lighting as they do other methods. The eyes actually have a “preference” for natural lighting. Conventional lighting actually makes the eyes work harder.
- Sunlight in the home removes the amount of mildew and mold in the home. This preserves and promotes proper indoor air quality of the home. Mold and mildew can affect a person’s allergies and even trigger asthma symptoms.
- Natural lighting is good for those suffering from depression. Research shows that the use of natural light for even short amounts of time can reduce, and even prevent, depression in adults and children. When it comes to elevating one’s spirits, only a few minutes of light introduced daily is required to make a difference.
- Sunlight improves the body’s ability to produce vitamin D. Vitamin D stimulates production of calcium and improves the functioning of the immune system. This can even reduce chances of a person getting cancer. Disorders like arthritis and diabetes are reduced when vitamin D levels are at their best.
Researchers have long advocated daily exposure to sunlight for a number of health reasons. Architects and medical professionals alike are now advocating the introduction of natural light into the home for similar reasons. From improved air quality and productivity to elevated moods, sunlight has its share of health benefits.
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