Introduction
Light therapy, also called phototherapy, is a treatment that exposes the body or eyes to specific wavelengths of light, usually from LED phototherapy devices. It can help treat certain types of medical conditions, like seasonal affective disorder (SAD), by helping regulate the brain's clock and improve symptoms.
How It Works
Light therapy works by taking advantage of how light affects our circadian rhythms and levels of melatonin and serotonin. Exposure to different wavelengths of light can impact brain chemistry and hormone production in ways that may relieve depression, improve sleep, or ease SAD symptoms.
Blue light in particular is thought to suppress melatonin production during the day, helping your body stay alert. Red and near-infrared light exposure before bed is less disruptive to melatonin levels and can help you feel more relaxed and sleep better.
Using Light to Treat Depression
One of the most common uses of phototherapy is treating SAD or winter blues. Dim winter light leads to lows in mood and energy for some people. Sitting near an LED phototherapy box for 30 minutes per day provides a "sunlight substitute" that may lift depression.
Studies show phototherapy is as effective as antidepressants for treating SAD, with far fewer side effects. It works quickly too - noticeable improvements can occur within a week when used consistently in the morning. Non-seasonal depression may also benefit from phototherapy added to other treatments.
Combating Sleep Problems
Light therapy devices are increasingly being used to treat other conditions including insomnia, jet lag, and sleep disorders. Exposure to red and infrared wavelengths before bed can shift your circadian rhythm, promoting relaxation and sleepiness at the right times.
By adjusting your body's light signals, phototherapy may help you fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly through the night. Some people see benefits after just a few sessions used 2-3 hours before bedtime. It's becoming a popular natural solution for occasional sleep issues.
Effects on Mood and Energy Levels
Beyond treating specific disorders, phototherapy can positively impact your general mood, focus, and energy levels when used long-term. Just 30 minutes of daily light exposure supports optimal serotonin and melatonin balance.
With winter daylight so minimal in many areas, phototherapy acts as aboosttocounteractnormal seasonal declines in well-being and productivity. Even non-seasonal users notice mood enhancement and more stable energy levels while using a therapy light regularly.
Considerations for Usage
While phototherapy is generally quite safe when used as directed, you'll want to check with your doctor first if you have any eye conditions or take medications that could interact. It's also best to start with shorter daily sessions if new to the treatment.
Look for a high-quality, clinically approved phototherapy device with an intensity of at least 2,500 lux. Position the light about 16-24 inches from your face, angled toward your eyes but not directly into them. Stick with a consistent daily schedule for best results.
As with any treatment, some may respond better than others. Be patient, as it can take a few weeks to see effects. But for many, light therapy's ability to impact brain chemistry through a drug-free method makes it worth trying as a supplement to lifestyle changes or other therapies for mood, sleep or seasonal issues. Used daily long-term, it may become part of your regular health and wellness routine.
About Author:
Ravina Pandya, Content Writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemical and materials, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravina-pandya-1a3984191
