Chronobiologie

How Light Affects the Human Body and Mental Well-Being

Wir haben gesehen, dass die Chronobiologie den zirkadianen Rhythmus untersucht und dass der Wechsel zwischen Tag und Nacht einer der wichtigsten Synchronisatoren unserer biologischen Uhr ist. Wenn die Nacht hereinbricht, markiert der Lichtabfall den Beginn der Schlafphase und der Körper beginnt (über den superchiasmatischen Kern) Melatonin abzusondern, was uns zum Schlafen einlädt. Wenn andererseits der Tag anbricht, markiert die Zunahme des Lichts den Beginn der Wachphase. Der Körper stoppt die Ausschüttung von Melatonin und aktiviert die Ausschüttung der Wachhormone (Cortisol, Serotonin).

Neben seiner regulierenden Wirkung auf unseren biologischen Rhythmus ist mittlerweile bewiesen, dass Licht auch eine physiologische Wirkung hat Wirkung auf den Körper. Eine aktuelle Studie hat tatsächlich bewiesen, dass Licht, wenn es in ausreichender Intensität und Qualität zugeführt wird, die Stimmung verbessert und kognitive Leistungen wie Gedächtnis, Wachsamkeit, Reaktionsfähigkeit, intellektuelle Fähigkeiten usw. steigert.

The Science of Light

Understanding the science behind light is essential for grasping its influence on our physiology. Light is a form of electromagnetic radiation that travels in waves, each with a different wavelength and energy level.

What is Light?

At its core, light consists of photons, which are particles of energy. These photons travel in waves and can vary in length. The human eye detects only a small portion of the entire electromagnetic spectrum—what we know as visible light, which ranges from approximately 380 to 700 nanometers in wavelength. This visible light is responsible for the colors we see and is crucial in regulating various biological processes.

Different Types of Light

Light can be categorized into several types based on wavelength, each affecting the body differently. Natural sunlight is the most balanced source of light, containing a mixture of ultraviolet (UV), visible, and infrared light. Each type of light plays a unique role; for instance, UV light is vital for vitamin D synthesis, while blue light, a component of visible light, is essential for regulating circadian rhythms. Nonetheless, each type can pose risks if there's overexposure, making it critical to balance our light exposure.

The Electromagnetic Spectrum

The electromagnetic spectrum encompasses all types of electromagnetic radiation, from gamma rays with the shortest wavelengths to radio waves with the longest. In terms of health, we are primarily concerned with visible light, UV light, and infrared radiation. Each segment of the spectrum interacts with the body differently, influencing a range of physiological and psychological processes. For instance, while UV light aids in vitamin D production, overexposure can lead to skin damage.

Ultraviolet Light (100–400 nm): Short-wavelength light, invisible to the human eye, that can damage skin and eyes with overexposure.
Visible Light (400–700 nm): The light we see, comprising all colors from violet to red.
Infrared Light (700–1,000 nm): A type of longer-wavelength light, felt as heat, used in therapies to promote relaxation and healing.

Discover what role light plays on the body

with Roland Pec - sleep specialist and chrono-therapist

The Luminette reproduces the beneficial effects of the sun and stimulates specific receptors, located in the eyes, which activate the energizing response that light has on the body. It will help you to fight against slumps in energy, allowing you to feel more in shape and it will have a regulatory effect on your sleep patterns.

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