What's a Light Therapy Lamp? Here's Why You Might Need One in Your Bedroom
Can't seem to focus lately?
Did you know that not getting any sunlight can have a negative impact on the body? While its effects vary per person, some may experience feeling less focused or having less energy. "Exposure to sunlight is thought to increase the brain’s release of a hormone called serotonin. Serotonin is associated with boosting mood and helping a person feel calm and focused," explains Healthline. In some cases, people develop seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of depression that's most commonly caused by a lack of exposure to sunlight. Its symptoms include "feeling of sadness or depressed mood, marked loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed, changes in appetite, change in sleep or sleeping too much," according to the American Psychiatric Association (APA). This is prominent in countries that have a winter season, as days get shorter and darker during this period.Â
Aside from exercising and spending time outside, a common treatment for SAD is light therapy. Essentially, this involves using light devices that mimic natural outdoor light to normalize the body. "Light therapy involves sitting in front of a light therapy box that emits very bright light (and filters out harmful ultraviolet (UV rays). It usually requires 20 minutes or more a day, typically first thing in the morning," explains the APA. Â
As most people these days are stuck indoors due to the pandemic, the Good Housekeeping reports that light therapy is starting to gain popularity. These light therapy lamps and boxes are available online. If you have a diagnosed disorder, though, be sure to discuss this with your doctor before trying it out. In the meantime, let this serve as a reminder for you to get a daily dose of sun as much as you can!Â
*Main image used for illustration purposes only.
