Table of Contents
Did you know that most people spend about 90% of their lives indoors? Now that we’re right in the middle of the winter season, you might even spend more time inside of your home, avoiding the frigid temperatures. While hiding from the cold air makes sense, you’re also shielding yourself from something crucial to your overall health: natural sunlight. Natural light from the sun is incredibly beneficial for your physical and emotional health — not to mention how it can turn any home into a bright, warm living space.
If you’re like so many others who prefer the comfort of the couch and a good book during the winter months to participating in outdoor activities, then you should consider ways to invite the sun inside your home. Let’s explore why natural light is so essential to maintaining good health at home.
It’s Loaded with Vitamin D
The sun’s rays are full of vitamin D, which plays a vital role in maintaining excellent health. You may already know that it promotes strong bones and teeth — helping to prevent osteoporosis and osteomalacia. But did you know that recent studies link vitamin D with lowering the risk of diabetes, muscle pain, blood pressure, and serious cancers such as breast, prostate, and colon? While taking supplements is helpful, you’ll also want to absorb the real thing with natural sunlight. Experts recommend sitting by a window or glass door for about ten minutes each morning to soak in that necessary vitamin D.
Helps Combat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Many people dread the winter months because the days are darker, shorter, and colder. While there are enjoyable things to celebrate this time of year, such as the beautiful scenery and the chance to engage in activities such as ice-skating, those dark, short days can harm your mood. Do you experience SAD? When you feel down and tired almost daily, for no particular reason? You may have felt stigmatized by such a disorder in the past, but you shouldn’t. About 15% of the general population suffers from its symptoms, and it can last up to 40% of the entire year.
Natural light helps prevent SAD because it triggers the brain to release the serotonin hormone, which helps people feel happy and calm. Do you have enough windows in your home? Opening up your house to the outdoors can make a significant difference in your emotional wellbeing. Check out Casa Bella Windows & Doors — a company offering the latest in modern window styles, including energy-efficient models. You might feel low because there aren’t enough windows in your home, preventing crucial, beautiful natural light from shining in.
Enhances Sleep
The more natural light you experience in a day, the better you’ll sleep. Sunlight helps create optimal natural sleeping cycles. Further to adding more windows and sitting by them in the morning, consider buying mirrors to hang on the walls. They’ll catch and reflect the sunlight, creating a brighter illusion during the day.
Create a healthier home by bringing in natural light. Your physical health could improve, you’ll feel happier and more energetic, and you’ll enhance your sleep cycle.
