How Light Affects Both You and Earth’s Health [Infographic]

How Light Affects Humans

Did you know that both natural and artificial light, which is light emitted from light bulbs, can affect your physical and mental health? In fact, according to one Harvard study, people need 10 to 15 minutes of sun exposure each day. This sun exposure helps your body get Vitamin D and can help improve your mood.

With the winter months on the horizon, it’s difficult for many people to receive the natural light their body requires. They should then rely on artificial light to help boost their mental health. One study that involved elderly people, found that ambient cozy candlelight and warm white lighting reduced anxiety.

To better understand the different types of lights, review the image below which breaks down the Kelvin Color Temperature scale.

In general, you want candlelight to warm white for places of relaxation such as your bedroom or living room. These types of light bulbs work well inside of floor, table, or bedside lamps. They’re also great for ascent lights or sconces.

Cool white or bright blue lights are great for increasing your energy levels. These are best for workspaces such as your garage or home office. They’re also useful for floodlights.

How Light Affects the Planet

Obviously, natural light from the sun allows for organisms and life forms to survive on planet Earth. However, artificial light produced by humans also affects the Earth’s environment, particularly at night.

Light pollution is the excess of artificial light that floods out starlight at night. It can also disrupt nocturnal ecosystems and interfere with astronomical research. In fact, 80% of the world’s population lives in light-polluted areas. Meaning, 8/10 people are susceptible to having their circadian rhythms thrown off due to light exposure at night.

In regards to ecosystems, light-polluted cities and areas can confuse animals’ migratory patterns. It also disrupts the reproductive activity of amphibians such as toads and frogs, who depend on nighttime to croak, which is part of their breeding ritual. Moreover, light pollution affects nocturnal predator and prey relationships since many prey species rely on darkness for cover.

To better understand how artificial light affects your health, the health of the planet, and how you can improve both, check out this visual below from HomeAdvisor: