CIRCADIAN RHYTHM
In our recent blog post BIOPHILIC DESIGN, we gave a teaser to a blog post about incorporating Circadian Rhythm into your home, and here it is!!
To begin, let’s discuss what Circadian Rhythm is. Circadian Rhythm is our body’s natural 24 hour cycle and tendency to be awake when the sun is up and asleep when the moon is out. The different light associated with sunrise, midday sun, and sunset guide our inner clocks to know when it is active work time and rest time. With the invention of electricity, electronics, and modern schedules, we have lost a connection with this natural rhythm. Now we can trick our brains into thinking it is time to be productive at 10 PM because we have every overhead light in our house on, and our body can think that it is time to get busy.
There are many conveniences with our modern-day world, but if you find yourself constantly stressed, struggling with sleep and striving, a little Circadian Rhythm to your day could be very beneficial for your mood!
Below we have outlined different times throughout the day, what nature’s light is doing, and how we can adjust our home interiors to align better with the outside. This can put our brain at ease and help encourage some natural wake and rest times.
In the Morning: During sunrise and soon after, the color temperature is lower and warmer. This could be a color temperature of somewhere between 2500K and 3500K. For morning lighting, start off your day with an alarm clock that gradually lights up to wake you up in the morning (with sound of course, but some people only need the light!). Use a lamp or half-dimmed lights to give your eyes and body a slow start to the day.
During the Day: Middle of the day sun is the brightest, closer to 4000-5000K. This is when you can turn on those overhead lights, and be bright, bright, bright! Productivity at it’s best!
In the Evening: Now is the time to begin to wind down. Dim your overhead lights or switch back to those side lamps, and or light some candles to create a relaxing atmosphere. This is a great time to begin to give those tired eyes a much needed rest.
At night before Bed: Our phones are bright, and can interrupt our winding down and stimulate our brains. Even though it is difficult, setting a curfew for your phone/TV time is an excellent way to help your body relax for bed. Read by that lovely lamp, journal, and take some time to reflect on your day, before a restful night sleep that will start with a gentle awakening!
Want assistance incorporating these interior elements into your home? Send us a message at info@spacestylistsco.com!
Cheers!
