Most people spend 90% of their time indoors. This is especially true during the winter season when people are trying to get comfortable in the warmth of their offices and homes. Many studies have pushed people not to spend too much time under the sun to prevent the risk of skin cancer. What they failed to highlight is with the right amount of exposure to sunlight has many health benefits, both physically, mentally, and emotionally. Sunlight is a great way to give your general well-being a boost.
Lower Energy Cost
Not only does sunlight benefit your health, but it’s an effective way to reduce your energy bill, too. Just ask your dependable electrician. They’ll tell you that by having more open windows in the morning and letting natural light in, your energy bill will decrease significantly. During winter, allowing the sunlight in your house by pulling the drapes up will help keep the heat in. If it’s not too cold, you can turn the heater off and let the warmth from the sun heat a room.
More Productive
Studies showed that when people spend time in a room that’s basked in natural light, they are more productive than their counterparts who work in a dark and dingy room. That’s why many offices right now are incorporating as much natural light as they can. Do an experiment. If you’re feeling a bit lethargic in your home office, prop open a window. Let the sun in. You’ll get an instant boost of energy. That will also increase your focus and concentration.
Reduces Blood Pressure
Time and again, it has been proven that sunlight can reduce blood pressure. Small amounts of nitric oxide (NO), which acts as a small messenger molecule in the skin and blood, are transferred from the skin to the circulation when exposed to sunlight. This lowers blood vessel tone and thereby, causes blood pressure to drop. It lessens the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Manages Stress and Anxiety
Natural light also helps people who suffer from stress and anxiety. The light improves the communication between the part of the brain that manages the emotions of stress and anxiety. Try to spend at least 30 minutes under the sun each day. You’ll notice a positive shift in your mood. You’ll be a lot calmer. This is also the principle behind why some yoga studios have high windows to let the sun in during meditation.
Increases Value of a Home
Planning to sell your house in the future? One study found out that natural light makes a room seem bigger and cheerier. Homes with large windows that allow the sunlight in make the areas look roomier and more open. Buyers are willing to pay more for these homes.
Try to find ways to let more light into your home. You don’t have to renovate your home. Make sure that the windows have no obstructions. Avoid heavy drapes or window treatments, and keep the windows as clean as possible. If you’re about to build a home, talk to your architects about incorporating natural lighting whenever possible.