Light, the secret to good health?: LiveSimplicity discussion forum

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We all know about the therapeutic and often energizing effect we get from sunlight. Is it possible that light could provide a great health benefit with out us even realizing it?

View A

Light is both physically and psychologically beneficial to our everyday well-being. This is made even more obvious during winter months when depression rates are significantly higher.

View B

Light, specifically sunlight, can be refreshing, but I see no true health benefit from exposure to light.

4 comment(s) so far

Andrewww thinks: I must admit I'm a sucker for sunlight. Europe is starting to warm up and the positive effect clear.

- I'm waking up earlier and clearer in the morning.

There are a lot more people out and about and the atmosphere seems much more friendly

- Lunchtimes I make an effort to go for a short walk to enjoy the weather

- I also love the fact that it's still light out when I get home. It seems that there's much more time to enjoy my evening and this gives me a much better feeling about my work/private time balance

I'm not clear on the fact if this positive effect is physical and/or mental.

My positive frame of mind urges me to undertake more physical activities, which makes me feel better about well being in return.

So yes, (sun) light certainly effects my overall well being. Has there been any testing by Philips if these effect can be triggered by man-made light?

JBonnin thinks: If we don't consider the pleasure sunlight offers, we should remember straight away that sunlight produces vitamin D.

The deficiency in vitamin D causes bones and teeth diseases.

But even more important, recent studies suggest that exposure to sunlight may reduce the risks of certain cancers such as breast, colon and prostate.

drjain thinks: Light is known to boost production of activating hormones in the body. Physically, sunlight exposure helps to strengthen bones and improve circulation to skin. Besides, sun gazing is a useful technique to improve one's eyesight. Psychologically, it reflects feelings of 'positivity' and 'pure energy'.

Whereas lack of sun exposure has been linked to conditions like depression (known as Season Affected Disorder, or SAD), exposure to bright light is good way of driving away blues. This also explains why sometimes people feel immensely better after those late evening visits to shopping malls and similar places.

dudufigueiredo thinks: Sun light is essential, as much as sunscreen.

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Light, the secret to good health?

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	View A
	Light is both physically and psychologically beneficial to our everyday well-being. This is made even more obvious during winter months when depression rates are significantly higher.
	View B
	Light, specifically sunlight, can be refreshing, but I see no true health benefit from exposure to light.
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