The Importance Of Daylight

THE IMPORTANCE OF DAYLIGHT There are many benefits of exposure to daylight, thanks to the Ultra Violet B (UVB) rays that are emitted. These benefits are particularly pertinent in a working environment where you might spend the majority of your time. D UVB RAY FACTS Ultra Violet means "BEYOND LIGHT" – meaning that the majority of people are unable to see it. However, those with Aphatika (no lens in their eyes) have been reported to be able to see UV light (*1) The rays are at their strongest in the summer months, and weakest in the winter. This is because the sun is in the sky for longer during the summer months. (*2) Between 11am-4pm is when UV rays are at their strongest outdoors in the summer (*2) 2 SO WHY DO WE NEED DAYLIGHT? Sitting in low light all day can have detrimental effects on your health and wellbeing, but by introducing more natural light, you can lead a healthier, happier life. FEELING SAD? 3 Seasonal affective disorder is caused by lack of exposure to daylight over an extended period, resulting in bouts of depression and low energy levels. A study conducted in 2002 found that sunlight increased levels of natural anti-depressant (serotonin) in the brain (*3). 4 HOW ABOUT RESTLESS? Sitting in low light all day can have detrimental effects on your health and wellbeing, but by introducing more natural light, you can lead a healthier, happier life. POOR IMMUNE SYSTEM? S Standing in the sun for a few minutes a day can help your body produce Vitamin D. This vitamin helps your body fight infection, as well as encouraging bone strength. (*5) OTHER HEALTH BENEFITS OF UVB LIGHT: Enhances mood and energy through the release of endorphins in your body Can help to treat skin diseases, such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis Protects against and suppresses symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) ADVICE Too much exposure can cause sunburn, skin aging and cancer. Protect yourself with sun tan lotion, or to maintain the intake of Vitamin D, only spend around 10-15 minutes in the sun without lotion on. Also, be sure to take regular breaks in shaded areas. 10-15 minutes HOW TO TAKE IN MORE DAYLIGHT WALK MORE Instead of driving short distances, take to the pavements instead. This is a great way of getting more exercise as well. TAKE BREAKS IN THE SUN If the weather is bright, warm and cheerful, take short breaks in the sun. BRING MORE LIGHT INSIDE Although you will not receive the full benefit of UVB rays through windows, letting more natural light into a room will save you money and improve your mood. Have additional windows or roof lights installed at your home or office. ADVICE Health research conducted by Oxford University has indicated that staff members sat near windows on sunny days are much more productive and alert (*7). Instead of rearranging the office, roof lights can add natural light to the centre of a room and reach more employees. AUTHOR BIO: This Infographic was created by EOS Rooflights, suppliers of high-quality certified roof glazing for flat roofs. ROOFLIGHTS wwW.EOSROOFLIGHTS.CO.UK RESOURCES 1 http://www.theguardian.com/science/2002/may/30/medicalscience.research https://sites.google.com/site/uvraysallyouneedtoknow/interesting-facts-2 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12480364 http://www.care2.com/greenliving/7-little-known-benefits-of-sunlight.html 5 http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/sun-give-people-vitamin-d-4942.html 6 http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2012/09/29/sun-exposure-vit amin-d-production-benefits.aspx 7 http://www.spirehealthcare.com/patient-information/health-news/healthcare/ 801596106-sunlight-boosts-productivity-at-the-office/