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The science behind natural daylight and mental health
Natural daylight , a narrow yet powerful portion of wavelengths contained within the spectrum of electromagnetic radiation from the sun , positively influences various physiological processes in the human body . One of the key components of daylight is blue light , which plays a vital role in regulating the production of melatonin , a hormone responsible for sleep-wake cycles . Exposure to daylight , especially early in the day , is crucial for maintaining our circadian rhythm , which governs sleep , hormone release and other vital functions .
A review article in Sleep Medicine Reviews highlights that consistent exposure to natural daylight advances nocturnal melatonin production , improving sleep quality . Bright morning light ’ s phase advancement of the melatonin rhythm has proven effective in treating insomnia , premenstrual syndrome ( PMS ) and seasonal affective disorder ( SAD ). The review also links better sleep patterns to enhanced mental health , noting that sleep deprivation contributes to anxiety , depression and cognitive decline .
Additionally , the discovery of intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells ( ipRGCs ) and their role in the human circadian cycle and health has spurred a collaborative effort among physicians , researchers , scientists , engineers and designers to develop and apply evidence-based design . Integrating natural daylight into building design is not only an aesthetic choice but also a strategic one to promote biological health , improve sleep and enhance mental health .
This collaboration is grounded in our understanding of how ipRGCs function and affect human physiology , cognitive performance and overall well-being , combined with advances in lighting science . Modern daylighting solutions provide the tools to precisely manipulate light quality ,
quantity and timing . By integrating these solutions with effective human-centric architectural design , we can develop highperformance buildings that significantly enhance human health .
Mood enhancement and reduced depression
If you ’ ve ever spent any amount of time in a badly lit room with no natural light , you will know how draining it can feel . As living beings , we feel the benefits of being exposed to daylight , and when we don ’ t have it , we crave daylight and views .
This is largely due to the role of daylight in the synthesis of serotonin , a neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of happiness and well-being . Numerous studies have shown
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