Lighting can affect your level of relaxation and sleep. From the type of light source to the color, there are different ways lighting can impact you.
People who have a fear of the dark use night lights to bring them comfort in a dark room. People who have difficulty sleeping opt for colored lights to promote the production of melatonin—the sleep hormone.
Here are a few ways that lighting can affect your sleep.
What color LED lights help you sleep?
Many people see blues and greens as more calming and relaxing colors. While this may be true, when it comes to sleep, warm colors work just as well, if not better, than cool colors.
Blue and white lights keep you awake because your brain is more sensitive to blue wavelengths. Blue lights cause you to feel more energized.
Warm lights help you sleep by impacting your circadian rhythm. Reds, oranges, ambers, and yellows are great for relaxation and sleep. Red lights can improve mental health.
Insomnia Light Therapy
Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that makes it hard for you to fall asleep and/or stay asleep. People who suffer from insomnia are not well-rested and their sleeping problems can stem from different things, including:
- Poor sleep habits
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Chronic illness
Light therapy isn’t only used for insomnia and can be used for other sleep disorders people suffer from. Also referred to as phototherapy or bright light therapy, this practice uses sunlight or a special light source to improve your sleep.
During light therapy, you use a specific light source at a certain distance and at a specific time of day. The specifics of your light therapy are dependent on the severity of your sleep disorder. Your healthcare provider is the one that will help set the specifics that will alleviate your sleep problems.
Before trying light therapy, be sure to consult with your doctor first. There are some health conditions that light therapy may aggravate, including but not limited to:
- Certain eye conditions
- Lupus
- Bipolar disorder
Salt Lamps
Salt lamps can be a great addition to your sleep environment. Many people use them for decoration and the pink glow they give your room. Others use salt lamps for the health benefits they are said to carry.
While theories of salt lamps have not been scientifically proven, users of Himalayan salt lamps say they have been beneficial. One study showed that the negative ions that are produced when using salt lamps can decrease mental health problems like depression. Other benefits of salt lamps include:
- Improves the air quality.
- Serves as a mood booster.
- Increases the production of melatonin to help you sleep better.
