What does light give us?
Natural light has a huge impact on our health, well-being and productivity. It synchronizes our internal biological clock because our activity during the day depends on its quantity and intensity. The human body needs a daily dose of natural light at different times of the day to be active, absorb knowledge more easily, sleep better and, most importantly, be happier. Light is also of great importance in the healing process, as well as when doing work.
Nowadays, in times of pandemonium, we are increasingly cut off from spending time outside. Many of us working remotely from our own homes notice even more how important a well-lit interior is. Our brains need natural light for a number of reasons. First, brightness provides a sense of security; second, it brightens not only the room, but also our thoughts. Third, it helps maintain focus and concentration - making us more efficient. Besides, sunlight gives us energy to act and even boosts our metabolism.
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What effect does it have on our health?
It's easy to see that we "slow down" when less sunlight reaches us. We then feel more sleepy, lethargic and tired. A marked drop in mood and lack of desire to do anything can be observed. Susceptibility to colds or even illnesses also increases, and we start talking about autumn melancholy or winter depression. Therefore, it is worth taking advantage of every ray of sunshine entering our home not only in the morning because sunlight can fight bacteria, has a stimulating effect, and is also a great therapist.
A very interesting example is a research project conducted in a hospital by a team from the University of Gothenburg. The researchers observed sick and post-accident patients who were housed in a ward with lighting that simulated natural light (adjusted in color, intensity and amount to the time of day). They found that it had a calming effect and regulated the biological clock. Patients slept better and were in better mental condition than those in the control group. In addition, this effect persisted very long after discharge from the hospital.
How does light help at work?
Certainly by stimulating our well-being and ability to concentrate. According to the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, office workers who have access to more natural daylight sleep better, are more physically active and enjoy a better quality of life than those who work primarily with artificial light. Experience has shown that companies that have moved employees to offices with better access to natural light have seen a significant increase in productivity.
If we need to illuminate rooms with artificial light then the color of the light in a room is very important. Warm light is best for rooms where we relax - the living room or bedroom, while cool light should be in the work or study area, where concentration is needed.
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How to ensure adequate lighting in homes and apartments?
A key role in the proper illumination of interiors is played by windows, both on the floors and in the attic. It is through them that natural light flows in. The proper location of windows in rooms under a sloping roof is crucial, and therefore their correct selection and placement is important. We are more and more willing to use large windows or combinations, which provide plenty of natural light and a beautiful view outside the window. A good example of large windows would be the FDY-V duet pro-Sky double-hung windows or the FGH-V Gallery balcony window. The maximum size of these windows is 94×255 cm. They can be joined together to create spectacular glazing in the roof slope. FAKRO also offers a ready-made flashing solution that allows roof windows of any design to be combined in groups of any combination (horizontal, vertical, block). It is also possible to make a modular combination system in a non-standard size and solution.
As researchers point out, light is the most important factor synchronizing the work of the brain and body. The proper functioning of the internal biological rhythm affects our overall health. It is to the sun that we owe the light from which our body draws energy and well-being, and we can enjoy better health. All we need to do is let the sun into our interior, preferably through skylights.
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