We live in a world dominated by screens. At any given moment, you’re probably not far from your mobile device. While the mobile revolution has made life more convenient, it’s also added a significant amount of stress. The kind of light emitted by our screens – called blue light – inhibits the production of hormones we need to sleep and regulate our wake cycle.
If you want to break the screen cycle and feel healthier, there a couple of things you can do. First, make sure your phone charges downstairs at night, instead of next to your bed. Second, you can invest in some new windows to let in some natural light. Mr. Roof offers custom windows to brighten your home. Sunlight has a bevy of health benefits – learn what they are and how natural light can improve your life.
The Sun Puts You in a Better Mood
Have you ever noticed that a sunny day automatically makes your mood a little brighter? As it turns out, there’s a scientific explanation. Studies have shown that our brain naturally produces more serotonin – a natural antidepressant – on sunny days than cloudy ones. This helps explain why people who live in cloudier climates are more prone to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), also known as the winter blues.
The same applies to your indoor environment. Letting more sunshine into your home will naturally increase your serotonin levels, leading to a happier household.
It Regulates Your Sleep and Wake Cycles
Most Americans don’t get enough sleep – which, according to the National Sleep Foundation, is between seven and nine hours each night. Many of us struggle to fall and stay asleep at night. Our mobile devices are partially responsible, as are our stress levels. People with a regular sleep and wake cycles are more likely to get enough rest and have lower reported levels of stress. But what is their secret?
The answer is, once again, hormones that sunlight regulates. We’re programmed to wake up when the sun rises, and fall asleep once it gets dark. In darkness, our brains begin to produce melatonin, the hormone responsible for sleep. This hormone begins to level off as the sun rises, contributing to our wakefulness.
If you want a regular sleep and wake schedule, one of the best things you can do is let in the sunshine. Large windows will let in a steady stream of light; it will keep you alert during the day. As the sun sets, you’ll naturally begin to feel sleepy. Let sunshine be your guide to healthier sleep!
It Gives You a Health Boost
Sunlight provides us with some other natural benefits, namely, it’s a rich source of vitamin D. Just a few moments of sunshine exposure each day can boost your immune system, build stronger bones, and strengthen teeth. That’s a lot of benefits for a few moments of sunshine!
It’s especially important to get vitamin D from the sun, because it doesn’t occur naturally in many foods. In order to get vitamin D, you must eat fortified foods, take supplements, or make a point to get some sunlight each day. The vitamin D council says that getting exposure to five to 15 minutes of sunlight each day is adequate for optimal health. In other words, all you have to do is curl up with a good book in front of a window to get the Vitamin D you need to be healthy.
Here’s a caveat: Too much sun, especially when your skin is prone to burning, can increase your risk of certain cancers. Always wear sunscreen when in the sun to minimize your risk of burning. Don’t worry, getting a few moments sun won’t cause any long-term health issues.
Getting Light and Energy Efficiency
Installing new windows is a great way to give your home more natural light, so you can enjoy the sun’s benefits. For many homeowners, installing new windows does more than let in more light: If your old windows are sparse or not properly insulated, you may be experiencing higher energy bills, along with drafts and temperature fluctuations in your home.
If you’re tired of drafts or dark rooms, it’s time to consider new windows. New Energy Star-approved windows will help you regulate your home’s temperature, while allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the outside world. As an added bonus, new windows will add to your curb appeal and appreciate the value of your home. You’ll not only have the best-looking house on the block, you’ll also be able to enjoy the numerous health benefits of sunlight.
Mr. Roof offers the highest quality, custom windows in the market. The windows we provide allow 27% more viewing space than typical windows, so you are getting more light and more of a view. We provide an exclusive weather barrier system and an UltraCore insulated frame. Our glass system is the most efficient glass system in the industry and we are so confident in our products we offer a lifetime, non-prorated warranty. Don’t just replace your old windows; upgrade them with windows from Mr. Roof.
