Let there be light – the power of Circadian Rhythms

Figueiro and Pedler make useful suggestions related to circadian lighting: “Open the window shades in your home or office but be careful to avoid creating glare. . . . When sitting by a window, try to face it. . . . If you cannot work facing a window, add extra table or floor lamps next to your work area.  A do-it-yourself (DIY) circadian lighting device is another option. If you have access to windows, make sure the shades are open and that you are facing the window. . . . field work by our research team, for example, studied the effects of circadian-effective light exposures facilitated by electrochromic glass windows. . . . compared to participants living in apartments fitted with conventional glass windows and blinds, those in apartments fitted with electrochromic glass windows demonstrated greater circadian alignment, earlier and more regular sleep, and improved vitality and mental health.”

Mariana Figueiro and David Pedler. “Cardiovascular Disease and Lifestyle Choices:  Spotlight on Circadian Rhythms and Sleep.”  Progress in Cardiovascular Diseases, in press, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pcad.2023.02.004