LED Light Therapy: Improves Sleep or Compromises Attitude?

LED Light Therapy may improve sleep by regulating your circadian rhythm, enhancing daytime alertness, and facilitating better sleep at night. While it might seem counterintuitive, light could be the key to improving your sleep.

Light Therapy has shown promise as a beneficial treatment for certain sleep disorders, particularly those related to circadian rhythm disruptions. In this discussion, we’ll explore how light therapy works, its benefits, and applications for better sleep - the team at Rojo NZ dives deeper!

What Exactly Is Light Therapy?

Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, involves exposure to a light source that is significantly brighter than typical indoor lighting but not as intense as direct sunlight. This therapy typically uses a lightbox for a set duration at the same time each day and can be conveniently done at home.

Light therapy may improve sleep quality and overall well-being by influencing brain chemistry related to mood and sleep - with hormones like melatonin and serotonin as prime examples.

How Does LED Light Therapy Improve Sleep?

If you struggle with insomnia, a disrupted circadian rhythm could be the culprit. Your circadian rhythm is part of your internal clock, regulating your sleep-wake cycle. Symptoms such as daytime sleepiness or mood disturbances may occur when this rhythm is out of sync.

Light therapy can help reset your circadian rhythm by exposing you to bright light at specific times of the day. This encourages your body's internal clock to align more closely with natural day-night cycles, which may improve your sleep and alleviate related symptoms.

What Sleep Disorders Can Light Therapy Help?

Light therapy is particularly effective for circadian rhythm sleep disorders, including:

1. Sleep Onset Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep at a typical bedtime but no trouble staying asleep.
2. Advanced Sleep Phase Disorder: Feeling sleepy in the late afternoon or early evening and waking up very early in the morning. In this case, light therapy in the early evening can delay your internal clock.
3. Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder: Staying awake late into the night and waking up late in the morning. Light therapy in the morning, soon after waking, can advance your internal clock to promote earlier sleepiness.

With these same mechanics, light therapy can help with:

1. Jet lag
2. Adjusting to night shift work schedules
3. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
4. Certain forms of depression

With this being said - it is not generally recommended for sleep issues unrelated to abnormal circadian rhythms. As a reminder, we encourage users who are unsure of the treatment’s suitability to consult with a general practitioner or other medical consultant first, before committing to therapies that could involve adverse effects.

How to Use Light Therapy for Sleep?

To engage in light therapy effectively:

1. Timing: Depending on your condition, use light therapy either in the morning after waking up or in the early evening before feeling drowsy.
2. Positioning: Place your light panel 16 to 24 inches from your face. Ensure the light reaches your eyes without looking directly into the panel itself.
3. Activity: You can read, eat, or use electronic devices during your session if your eyes are exposed to the light.
4. Duration: Sessions typically last 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the light intensity and your doctor's guidance.
5. Consistency: Stick to a regular schedule for optimal results. Improvements may take a few days to weeks.

Always follow the safety precautions and instructions provided with your light therapy device.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Light therapy is generally safe but may cause minor side effects, including:

1. Eyestrain
2. Headache
3. Nausea
4. Irritability

These effects are typically mild and subside after the first few sessions. If severe side effects occur, discontinue use and consult your doctor.

Final Thoughts

Light therapy is a non-invasive and drug-free approach to treating certain sleep disorders. Consistent use can help reset circadian rhythms and improve sleep quality.

However, insomnia or disrupted sleep can indicate underlying health conditions. Consult your doctor before starting light therapy to address any health concerns and receive personalised recommendations on light intensity, session duration, and usage. A tailored approach will help you maximise the benefits of light therapy while ensuring safety and effectiveness.

To learn more about red light therapy benefits or to find the right red light therapy panel for you, contact us at ROJO Light Therapy.