How important is natural light in your home?

In the following blog, we will share how natural light can help your sleep, overall health, and immune system amongst many other benefits. We also have some useful tips on how you can maximise the light from sunrise to sunset in your home.  

Experiencing sunrise and sunset helps your body   

Circadian Rhythm, very simply, is how our body behaves in a 24-hour cycle; especially how we respond to light and dark. Our eyes can detect light at the back of the retina which sends a signal to our brain telling it the time, switching chemicals on and off helping our bodies prepare for sleep, feel hungry at the right times, heal and switch off things like digestion and insulin production.  

If we tinker with these rhythms by living in dark rooms in the day and with artificial light in the evening, our body can become confused about what it’s doing. In Layman’s terms, light dictates what our body does, and when.  

Having natural light through our windows and naturally experiencing sunrise and sunset helps our body to switch our hormones and chemicals on and off correctly.   

Boosts vitamin D

Often referred to as the ‘sunshine vitamin’, vitamin D has numerous health benefits that will make you feel better in your day-to-day life... But how do you increase your vitamin D levels? When exposed to sunlight, the skin absorbs vitamin D naturally so you should aim to get 10–30 minutes of midday sunlight, several times per week. Vitamin D prevents bone loss and reduces the risk of heart disease, weight gain, and various cancers so make sure to spare at least 10 minutes a day to go outdoors. 

Help ease depression symptoms  

We all feel more energised and upbeat during the summer months but why? It is known that sunlight produces serotonin, a neurotransmitter that is linked to modulating mood, cognition, reward, learning and memory. So, if you are feeling a bit down in the dumps because of the pandemic or you're fed up with working from home, try getting out for a walk every day as it will make you feel happier and healthier!   

It Will Make Your Home More Desirable 

Did you know there are also benefits to letting more light into your home? Not only can it improve your health, but it is also a key feature that buyers look for when choosing their next property. Whether it be by folding doors or well-placed roof windows, you can achieve a bright and beautiful home with ease. If you are looking to convert your loft or add a one-storey extension this summer, speak to a member of our team who will advise you on the best roof window for your project. Call the team on 01283 554 755.