In this blog series, we took a deep dive into the importance of light exposure and how it affects our sleep, energy, and overall wellbeing. From understanding the impact of artificial light at night to finding ways to maximise natural light during the day, we covered practical strategies to help you make the most of this often-overlooked element of health.
Blog Posts
November 1st, 2024 – Why light matters for your health & productivity
In the previous blog series on embracing the autumn-winter season, we touched on the importance of light exposure. Many of you had questions, so I thought it would be worthwhile to explore this topic in greater detail this month, as there’s a lot more to it than most people realise! While we hear a lot about the downsides of blue light, the overall impact of light (both artificial and natural) on our health, mood, and performance is often overlooked … Read the full post here
November 8th, 2024 – Artificial light at night: How our modern lives disrupt sleep & more
As we continue our series on light exposure, let’s take a closer look at how light influences our health, performance, and overall wellbeing. In this post, we’re focusing on artificial light at night – specifically, how the bright light from our homes, workplaces, and devices can impact our sleep quality, stress levels, energy, and even our metabolic health … Read the full post here
November 15th, 2024 – The importance of daylight exposure: Are you getting enough?
Continuing the theme of our series on light exposure and its impact on health and performance, in this post we’re looking at the benefits of getting enough natural light during the day. I’m increasingly concerned that many of us aren’t getting enough daylight – especially with so many people now working from home where there’s a tendency to stay indoors all day … Read the full post here
November 22nd, 2024 – Q&A: Is working from home affecting your sleep & energy levels?
This month’s subscriber question comes from Vish: “I used to work in an office five days a week, but now I work from home almost all the time. I’ve noticed more sleep and energy issues in the past year or two. Could this be due to not getting outside as much since I’m no longer commuting?” … Read my answer here
Worth Sharing This Month
Light Alarm Clocks
With this month’s focus on light exposure, it feels only fitting to feature a light alarm clock as my ‘worth sharing’ pick. If you’ve never tried one, they’re a fantastic investment for your health and wellbeing – especially during the darker months.
One of the best options on the market is Lumie, offering various models to suit different needs and budgets. If you’re after the full experience, their premium models come with features like a radio alarm, Bluetooth speakers, customised sleep and wake sounds, USB charging ports, and tap-control snooze.
For those on a budget, Lumie also offers simpler versions that still deliver the benefits of waking up to light – without all the bells and whistles. Many people don’t realise these clocks can also mimic a sunset in the evening, which can help you relax and fall asleep more easily.
Waking up gradually to increasing light (and falling asleep to decreasing light) has many benefits, from regulating your circadian rhythm and improving sleep quality to boosting your mood and reducing morning grogginess. It’s also a much gentler alternative to loud alarms, which can spike stress hormones and leave you feeling on edge before the day’s even begun!
A light alarm clock is particularly beneficial if you’re waking up before sunrise, struggle with morning anxiety, or experience low mood or SAD in winter. And, if you’re looking for energy lamps to counteract Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Lumie also has excellent options.
Blue Light Blocking Glasses & Lights
On a related note, I also recommend blue light-blocking glasses to support your evening wind-down. These glasses are a simple and effective way to reduce exposure to artificial blue light, which can disrupt sleep and make it harder to relax.
If you’ve noticed you’re struggling to fall asleep or wind down after a busy day, these glasses could be a game-changer. I love Block Blue Light, a UK-based company, for its great selection of blue light-blocking glasses, as well as amber-toned lamps, bulbs, and night lights that are perfect for creating a cosy, calming evening atmosphere.
Both Lumie and Block Blue Light have some fantastic offers running this Black Friday, so it’s a great opportunity to invest in your wellbeing! And, just to clarify, I’m not paid to endorse any of these products or brands – I’m simply sharing things that I rate and genuinely believe can improve your wellbeing.
Kate x
