Light up your day, naturally

With winter here and shorter days in the Northern Hemisphere, it’s important we’re still getting as much natural light as we can, including time outside for fresh air and exposure to sunlight for vitamin D (this is more difficult in the winter of course, but all the more reason for spending some time outdoors 🙂)

If you’re working indoors, see if you can work near a window so you’re getting as much natural light as possible and not just using electric / LED lights. These artificial lights have a higher level of blue light which keeps our cortisol levels up and greater exposure towards the end of the day (including the blue light from electronic devices) will suppress our melatonin levels - our sleep hormone - which can effect our sleep and leave us feeling ‘tired and wired’.

So if you can, take 20 minutes outside each day (whether it be a walk in the morning or lunchtime stroll) and minimise screen time in the evening (ideally 1.5 hours before bed). This can help reduce stress levels and aid a better night’s sleep. Win win.