The Benefits of Natural Light
Natural light leads to healthier, happier, and more productive workers. Because we all work better with a good night’s sleep. Increased light during the day can help you sleep better at night. Light is the brain’s biological timekeeper. It helps regulate our sleeping patterns. And a reduction of light signals the body to increase melatonin production, a hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle.
Sunlight also gives us vitamin D, an energy-giving essential mineral responsible for a variety of functions. According to the National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements, adults under 70 years old are recommended the daily intake of 600 IU (15 mcg) of vitamin D.
This essential mineral regulates the immune system, insulin levels, and promotes healthy teeth and bones. And it also supports lung function as well as cardiovascular and nervous system health. So, without enough vitamin D, workers are at risk for regular sickness, back pain, low mood, and fatigue. They may also encounter more serious problems like cardiovascular conditions, neurological diseases, pregnancy complications, and certain cancers.
Natural light can help regulate season affective disorder, also known as SAD or seasonal depression. Seasonal affective disorder is very common and is caused by the reduced level of sunlight in fall and winter. Symptoms include social withdrawal, fatigue, and depression. Because Natural light produces the “feel-good hormone” of endorphins and helps our brains to produce serotonin, a hormone that can alleviate pain. Enough light also prevents us from straining our eyes to see. Therefore, natural light can protect our vision and prevent headaches.
Natural light is eco-friendly and free. So, not only you will have fewer energy costs from lighting and heating, but you will also promote environment awareness. Reaping countless benefits that support workers and their productivity, every office needs natural light.
Ways to Let Light In
Drapes and shades only minimize a room’s opportunity for brightness. Make sure everything is clear from the windows. If possible, move workstations at least 20 feet away from the windows. And consider implementing desk rotation, so everyone gets a chance at a window seat. Open office plans also work great in allowing everyone a glimmer of sunlight.
If an open office lacks the space for solitude you need to be productive. Glass blocks are a great way to let the light in without compromising privacy or efficiency. Opposed to concrete walls that block the light, glass partitions allow light to shine through the office. Mirrors can also allow light to travel, by reflecting light and allowing it to bounce around the room. The same is true for light-colored paints. Painting your office walls in shades like lavender, powder blue, or simply white will bring some added brightness to your space. Dark colors like black, brown, or navy will make a room feel smaller because they absorb light.
Are you in a windowless workspace?
Consider opting for a sun lamp. Also known as a light therapy box or SAD lamp, a sun lamp mimics natural light and can be an effective treatment for seasonal affective disorder. Though it doesn’t impact vitamin D production, sun lamps are believed to positively affect melatonin and serotonin to help regulate the body’s circadian rhythm.
