With so many restrictions, most people have been spending about 90% of their day indoors. This means less time in nature, less fresh air, and less natural sunlight. This last one is important because light from the sun is vastly different from artificial light. Having the right windows for daylight is essential. And if you are not getting enough natural light, it might be time to consider replacement windows in Portland, OR. Otherwise, you could miss out on all these benefits:
Sunlight Helps with Circadian Rhythms
Did you know that more exposure to daylight can actually improve sleep? Research shows that natural sunlight helps control circadian rhythms. Your inner time clock tells your body when to wake and when to sleep. And on average, those who get exposure to the right amount of sunlight usually enjoy a more restful sleep at night.
Sunlight Improves Mood
Sunlight also helps the body produce endorphins. This is the happy hormone known to help you feel good. Exposure to daylight can also help increase the body’s production of serotonin. This is a pain relieving hormone that also helps provide energy so you feel more energized.
Sunlight Reduces Stress
The challenges of the last year have left many feeling an uncommon amount of stress and anxiety. Sunlight can actually help reduce stress. As the skin absorbs sunlight it helps stimulate the production of beta-endorphins. The primary function of these hormones is to improve mood and reduce stress.
Sunlight Boosts the Immune System
Sunlight absorbed by the skin also helps produce vitamin D in the body. Vitamin D is essential for healthy bones, muscles, brain function, and more. It also helps wake up T-cells, which are types of white blood cells the body uses to fend off foreign pathogens. When T-cells activate they find and fight off infection. Without necessary levels of vitamin D, T-cells may remain dormant leaving the body more prone to disease and infection.
Sunlight Increases Focus
Feeling foggy or unproductive throughout the day? It could be from a lack of natural light. Research shows regular exposure to sunlight in the morning and evening helps to improve focus and concentration. In turn, this helps increase productivity. Natural light can also help reduce eyestrain and prevent permanent eye damage. Getting enough daylight could be especially important if you happen to be working from home. You need a workspace that has access to plenty of natural light.
Sunlight Saves Energy
Another thing to consider is the energy savings that go along with more natural light. More daylight in the home means less reliance on artificial lighting. More than 10% of the electrical bill tends to go towards artificial lighting. It may not seem like much, but it is still worth saving where you can. More natural light can also make the home feel larger and more welcoming, actually boosting the value of your home as well.
If you are interested in getting more daylight with replacement windows in Portland, OR contact our design experts at EnergyGuard Windows & Doors today.