Are you tired of relying on caffeine to power you through your day? If you’re looking for a healthier, more natural way to boost your energy levels, researchers have discovered a simple trick that could help. All you need is some blue light.
Blue Light to the Rescue
In a study conducted by Shadab Rahman at Brigham and Women’s Hospital’s Division of Sleep, it was found that exposing yourself to blue light not only improves alertness during the night but also during the day. So, instead of reaching for your third cup of coffee, try turning on a blue light source, and you may find yourself feeling less sleepy and more attentive.
According to neuroscientist Steven Lockley, these findings open up new possibilities for using light to improve human alertness, productivity, and safety. Improving the quality of lighting in your environment could have numerous benefits, not only for night shift workers but for day shift workers as well.
How Does Blue Light Work?
Blue light has a short wavelength, which means it emits higher amounts of energy. During the day, this light helps boost attention, reaction times, and mood by stimulating cells in the retina that connect to the part of the brain that controls our internal body clock, commonly known as the circadian rhythm.
However, it is essential to strike a balance with your blue light exposure. Too much exposure to blue light in the evening and at night can disrupt your sleep cycle, making it harder for you to fall asleep and stay asleep. And if you’re chronically sleep-deprived, that’s going to have an impact on your energy levels and overall health.
Practical Ways to Use Blue Light
Now that you know the energy-boosting power of blue light, you might be wondering how you can incorporate it into your daily routine. Here are some practical ways:
- Make use of natural light: Get as much natural sunlight as possible during the day. Open up your curtains, go for a walk outside, or even consider adding a skylight to your workspace. The more exposure to natural sunlight you get, the more awake and alert you’ll feel.
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Switch out your light bulbs: Replace some of your traditional light bulbs with blue-enriched LED bulbs designed to help boost alertness and productivity. These bulbs can be particularly useful in areas where you need the most concentration, such as your office or workout space.
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Invest in a blue light lamp: There are various blue light therapy lamps available on the market designed to help users combat seasonal affective disorder (SAD), sleep disorders, and fatigue. Having one of these lamps in your home or workspace can help increase your exposure to blue light and give you the boost of energy you need.
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Limit your blue light exposure at night: To avoid disrupting your sleep cycle, make sure you’re not inundated with blue light in the evenings. Apps like f.lux allow you to reduce the amount of blue light emitted by your devices in the evening, or you may want to invest in a pair of blue-light-blocking glasses.
The Takeaway
While it’s tempting to turn to caffeine for that quick energy boost, it’s essential to consider alternative, healthier methods. Blue light exposure can provide a natural pick-me-up while also improving your alertness and productivity. By harnessing the power of blue light, you can give yourself that much-needed energy boost without resorting to stimulants and artificial energy drinks. But remember, moderation is key. Make sure you balance your blue light exposure throughout the day, especially as the evening approaches, to enjoy the maximum benefits it can provide.
