Coastal Transformation

Here at Coastal Transformations, we don’t believe there’s such a thing as ‘too much natural light’. Even in the darker seasons, i.e fall and winter, the use of skylights, glass doors and windows can help you take in as much natural light as possible. When you consider the health benefits that go with consuming sufficient natural light (especially in these seasons) there’s really no question about why we encourage all our customers to “bring in the light”. Here are just a few of the major health benefits of natural light:

SAD/Improves Mood

SAD or Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that occurs with the change of the seasons. Symptoms usually begin in the fall and continue into the winter. SAD affects up to 5% of our population

every year, and shouldn't simply be waved off as the “winter blues”. Scientists believe that the “happy” hormone called serotonin increases when nights are short and days are long (summer) and when the opposite occurs serotonin levels drop. Many psychiatrists will recommend that people with SAD get out in the sunlight for at least 30 minutes a day or try to increase daily exposure to natural light to help prevent or treat this type of depression.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is an essential mineral for all people. It’s important for absorbing calcium and promoting bone growth, as well as helping prevent certain types of cancers, heart disease, depression and weight gain. The best way to get vitamin D is through exposure to sunlight. Whether it means going outside or spending some time close to your skylight, windows or out on your porch, ensure you get your daily dose of sunlight to prevent disorders and diseases, such as autism, cancer, diabetes, chronic pain and depression.

Better Vision

Almost everyone spends a portion of their day in front of a screen, whether computer, tablet, cell phone or TV. Technological screens and fluorescent light can cause eye strain that can lead to permanent eye damage, especially in children and young adults. Natural light has been shown to help the eye produce dopamine, which aids in preventing nearsightedness and assures healthy eye development.

Better Sleep

Research shows that the amount of sunlight you receive during the day has a direct impact on how much sleep you get at night. Direct sunlight, especially early in the morning for at least half an hour, produces the most benefit for a good night’s sleep while artificial lighting has little to no effect. In fact, artificial light before bed and at night can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and cancer if you’re unable to consistently obtain quality sleep.

Considering all the benefits we just outlined, we wouldn’t be surprised if you rushed over to open a window or door to let the natural light in. Call us and let us make a few recommendations on how you can enjoy more natural light this fall and winter.