The relationship between sleep and light is much more closely linked than you could imagine.  Fundamentally, all light – natural and artificial – affects the way people sleep in some capacity, but not all light will have the same impact on the body’s natural timing.

In the absence of light, your brain will naturally produce critical hormones to promote sleep.  As we wind down from the day, our melatonin levels rise, initiating a response of drowsiness, muscle relaxation, and a drop in your body temperature.  If we were able to listen and interpret these signs our quality of sleep would be much higher.

Unfortunately, in the modern-day, we are universally connected to the internet 24/7.  Our laptops and phones have almost become a physical extension of our body, yet this digital alertness is having a serious impact on our body’s circadian rhythm.  The blue and green light given off from your computer, phone or tablet will neutralize the natural effects of melatonin.

Blue and green wavelengths from our favorite pieces of technology; mobile phones, computers, tablets, TVs, and more are incredibly beneficial during the daylight hours, boosting your attention, reaction time, and even mood.  At night, however, they are completely disruptive.