I’m going to lose weight.
I’m going to get organized.
I’m going to live life to the fullest.
Year after year, as the ball drops and a new year begins, we make renewed resolutions to be better, feel better, and even look better, yet some statistics say that only about 8% of us are actually successful in achieving our goals.
What if the right kind of lighting could make the difference between success and failure of your personal goals?
Before you toss in the towel on your New Year’s resolutions, consider the following:
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Light Could Make you Healthier
Poor exposure to the right kind of light comes with a slew of detrimental side effects that range anywhere from sleepiness and lack of energy to memory loss. Short-wavelength blue light (prevalent in daylight) has a stimulating effect, leading to increased energy levels and better athletic performance. If you’re struggling to get through your workout, try cranking up the light.
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Light Could Make You More Organized & Productive
Blue light has an awakening effect. At specific levels of intensity, exposure to this particular light wavelength suppresses the hormone melatonin, leaving you sharper, more attentive and better able to conquer tasks. On the other hand, a good night’s rest goes a long way to leave you mentally refreshed and focused, so put away the smartphones and tablets when you’re in bed lest you mess up your body’s sleep/wake cycle.
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Light Could Make You Happier
Daylight is a natural pick-me-up. In fact, it’s such a powerful mood enhancer that some people use color and light therapy to treat depression and fatigue. For days when you just can’t seem to shake that gloomy feeling, step outside for a quick dose of sunshine – even a few minutes may help. If that’s not an option, consider full spectrum fixtures and light bulbs that simulate daylight.
Conclusion – A Bright Idea
Happiness, healthiness, and a fuller, more productive life are all respectable ambitions. Tapping into light’s impressive properties isn’t a cure-all for what keeps us from reaching our fullest potential, but it may just tip the scales in our favor.