2020 was quite the year. You probably spent a majority of it inside, isolating yourself from others to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. And now, as we’re almost mid-way through 2021, we’re still taking the necessary precautions to stay safe and healthy. While there are finally vaccines rolling out and the science and health communities understand the virus much better than they did this time last year, we’re not in the clear just yet.
We still have a ways to go before the world resumes a sense of normalcy. You’re likely still spending a lot of time indoors and staying away from big crowds. Since you’re not out as much, you’ll start to crave the feeling of soaking up the spring sunshine. Even if you’re making time to get some outside air, having natural sunlight in your home is pertinent to your health and wellbeing. You’re going to want to enjoy as much natural sunlight as you can, and here’s why.
It Improves Your Mood
Have you ever noticed how, when you’re feeling a little down, going outside can often lift your bad mood? One of the benefits of natural light is that it enhances your serotonin — the hormone associated with making people happy and relaxed — and can prevent the effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) from occurring. It can also help reduce depression and anxiety symptoms and is often called nature’s antidepressant.
You’ll Save on Utility Costs
The more sunlight enters your house, the warmer it will be. This seems like a no-brainer but it’s on of the benefits of natural light that is worth mentioning here. You won’t have to turn the thermostat up as high when you can enjoy natural warmth from the sun.
It Boosts Your Vitamin D Intake
One of the top benefits of natural light is that it enhances your well-being because it’s loaded with vitamin D. A lack of vitamin D in the body can contribute to depression, anxiety, and general feelings of malaise. Vitamin D can increase serotonin and dopamine levels, which help you feel happy, calm, and energized.
It Maintains a Healthy Sleep Pattern
Did you know that being around significant amounts of artificial light can confuse your brain when it comes to sleep and wake times? However, getting enough natural light encourages your body’s circadian rhythm and allows you to feel tired and alert at the correct times. This is one of the biggest benefits of natural light vs artificial light and one of the big reasons why people get seasonal affective disorder during the winter months.
How To Get Natural Light Into Your Home
Are you wondering how you can take advantage of the beautiful natural light from the sun? Aside from taking walks each day, and ensuring that you spend some time in your yard or the hiking trail, consider the following tips:
- If you find that your home is dull and dark, even when it’s sunny outside, open it up with more windows.
- Add mirrors to the main rooms. Mirrors will catch sun rays and reflect them off of the surface and throughout your house.
- One of the most effective ways to increase sunlight inside is to install a bright and sunny solarium — a room made entirely of glass walls. You’ll experience the beauty of the outdoors right in the comfort of home and indulge in the sunlight at any time of year.
- Your roofing material of choice can affect how much heat and light your house will absorb. To be on the safer side, get a roof replacement as soon as you notice any damages that are preventing your house from getting natural light.
The benefits of natural light can help you feel your best, both physically and emotionally. By adding more windows, mirrors, or a beautiful new solarium and maximizing the light across your home, you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of natural light all year long.
