Family Encyclopedia >> Beauty & Style

Boost morale with light

Low sky + rain + lack of light =morale in the socks! Because it is precisely light that regulates the production of the sleep hormone (melatonin) and that of well-being and energy (serotonin). If it is lacking, the body secretes excess melatonin and by-produces serotonin. For the body to be able to regulate the secretions of these two hormones, it would have to be exposed to a light intensity of at least 2,500 lux the problem? In winter or spring when it is gray, natural light does not exceed 1,500 lux. The solution:bet on light therapy. This technique consists in using daily (in the morning, if possible) a lamp reproducing the solar spectrum (without infrared nor UV). No need to stay planted in front, it just needs to be in the field of vision (it allows you to do your nails, have breakfast, work…). Depending on the intensity of the lamp and its distance, we expose ourselves more or less long:for a lamp with an intensity of 10,000 lux, we need 30 minutes if it is 20 centimeters away, two hours if it is 60 centimeters. Today there are two types of light on the market that you choose according to your taste:white and blue (less powerful in intensity, it nevertheless offers similar results to the first). It takes two weeks to feel the positive effects of light therapy and get back on track.

Our favourite:Energylight Energy Up lamp, Philips, €200, available in white or blue light.