Coastal Transformation

Daylighting is the term used to describe the practice of letting natural light in through windows, glass doors and skylights. People assume that sunlight is only available during the hot and sunny weather that accompanies the summer months, but that’s not so. Daylighting can happen even when it's overcast or snowy. Here are some of the benefits natural light can provide, especially during the winter.

Mood Enhancer

Some people feel sluggish and unmotivated during the winter season. This mood change is known by many names, such as winter blues or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Sunlight is a natural medicine that can boost energy levels, which makes you more jovial and productive. The science behind this is simply that sunlight helps our bodies produce serotonin, a hormone that improves mood, sleep patterns and sense of well-being.

Better Holistic Health

Multiple research studies have tapped into the positive effects of sunlight on not just our disposition but health too. During the winter, sleep patterns can be affected and you could experience insomnia. Access to daylight has been shown to improve our “circadian” rhythm, which is basically our body’s natural 24 hour clock that signals when we should sleep and wake up. Additionally, sunlight triggers the production of Vitamin D in your body. Vitamin D is important for strong bones, and the prevention of diseases like rickets, multiple sclerosis and some cancers.

Energy Efficiency

When it’s colder, there’s more need for energy to keep internal temperatures warm. Through the use of skylights and strategically placed windows, daylighting is an energy conservation option that can cut your dependence on electric heat.

Natural HVAC

Good daylighting can reduce the cost of heating. Well-designed skylights can maximize heat retention during winter and minimize heat gain when it gets warmer.

Senior Citizen Friendly

Falling is a major concern for senior citizens. Older folks require more light to see properly, so it makes sense that insufficient lighting is one the leading causes of domestic falls. Artificial lighting can also be targeted and glaring, which hurts the eyes. The dispersed nature of natural light means little to no glare. So, not only could daylighting mean less falls for our aged relatives, but it could help improve their mood and sleep patterns.

Optimizing daylight can benefit you in so many ways. From changes in mood and behaviour to saving money on electric costs. Bring the natural light in and take a step this winter you may not have previously thought of doing. At Coastal Transformations we can help implement solutions to get your “daylighting” today. Contact us at (843)357-3667 or visit our website.