8 Ways to Get More Natural Light in Your Life
As the seasons change and the sun begins to set earlier and earlier, our days shorten — and so does our source of natural light. It's not uncommon for this change in light to significantly affect our mood, productivity, energy levels, and more.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression that occurs during the fall and winter months primarily due to the change in light and weather, uses bright light therapy as a go-to treatment option. Why? Because light, especially natural light that mimics or lets in the sun, is powerful for boosting mood, improving sleep, and more.
Below, you'll find eight helpful ways to bring more sunshine into your life (even when there's none outside).
1) Get out when you can
I know that sometimes, going outside when it's chilly isn't really your cup of tea. In fact, you'd probably rather be curled up by the fireplace with a cup of tea. But finding those moments to get outside and soak in some sunshine and fresh air can do wonders.
Whether that means going for an early morning walk or having a work break on your patio, carving out time and space for a bit of natural light can lift your mood and make you feel lighter and brighter. Of course, be an accurate judge of the weather before going out. Wear layers if necessary to prevent yourself from getting cold.
2) Supplement with vitamin D
Vitamin D is known as the sunshine vitamin. Why? Because we get most of our vitamin D through sun exposure. But when wintertime rolls around and the skies darken, adding a vitamin D supplement to your daily regimen is essential to maintain strong bones and a healthy immune system.
Before supplementing, always consult a healthcare specialist about which dosage is correct for you and your needs.
3) Add plants to your living space
Sure, plants won't add light, but they do give off the feeling of being connected to nature — and that's almost as good as getting outside!
4) Plan ahead
If you live in a colder climate, sometimes the best recipe for getting more natural light is planning a trip to somewhere warmer if you have the means. And if you plan ahead, you can book a sunny trip to break up the darkest months for a great deal.
5) Try a light therapy lamp
Light therapy has been used as an effective treatment for SAD because it provides feel-good natural lighting even when it's not present in our environment.
6) Color theory
Brighten up your space with wall colors close to white or light-colored. The same goes for your floor space. Area rugs or even paint can brighten up a room considerably. Since white is the most reflective color on the spectrum, incorporating colors close to white will reflect sun rays and make your space feel brighter.
7) Craft your space
As humans, we spend so much of our time indoors. And it's time to bring the outdoors in! Here are a few of my favorite ways to increase natural light in the home:
Opt for larger windows in your space or keep the windows you do have unobstructed
Keep your window glass clean and remove window screens for optimal light
Add natural lighting with solar tubes or skylights
Swap your solid front door frame for one with glass inserts
Trim branches and boughs around your home that may be obstructing light from coming in
Remove heavy curtains to bring in more sunshine
Strategically add mirrors around your home to bounce around light and add more brightness
8) Be your own advocate
If you find that a lack of natural light is affecting your mental health, let someone know! Don't be afraid to speak up to an employer or loved one because there could be a simple solution, like moving your desk closer to a window or going for more walks.
Whatever methods you choose, from simple to more elaborate, just a few tweaks to your space or your day can yield tons of benefits to help you energize even in the darkest months. Here comes the “sun!”
