According to neuroscientists, light box devices can benefit mental and physical health.
In this post, we will share science-backed light panel recommendations, share his rationale for using one, and explore use cases like treating seasonal depression disorder.
Top Picks
Best Light Box: Suxio Light Therapy
Best Light Panel: VKTEK Lab
Natural Light Therapy
Even indirect natural sunlight exposure has more benefits than indoor artificial lighting.
Make a habit of viewing sunlight earlier in the day and at sunset if possible.
He advises spending time outside on cloudy days to get light exposure through cloud cover.
However, looking directly at dangerously bright light should always be avoided.
Safe Sun Exposure
Some recommend exposing both your eyes and skin to moderate sunlight whenever it is reasonably safe and socially appropriate to do so.
He notes that more skin exposure allows your body to absorb more beneficial photons.
However, he cautions that individual factors like skin cancer risk should be discussed with your doctor.
Sunscreen is a potential solution, but it has some caveats.
- Safe zinc-based sunscreen
- Free of chemicals that potentially cross blood-brain barrier
- Translucent finish compared to white zinc-based sunscreens
Light Box for Seasonal Depression
Many individuals use light boxes to address seasonal affective disorder (SAD) symptoms:
If you experience a drop in energy or an increase in depression or psychological lows, using a SAD lamp can be very helpful. If you don’t want to invest in a SAD lamp, which can often be expensive, a simple LED lighting panel could be a good alternative.
Choosing an Affordable Light Box
Another option is a LED art drafting light box panel that provides 930 to 1,000 lux brightness.
These inexpensive light boxes are essentially drawing boxes; they are thin panels roughly the size of laptops and are much more affordable than the typical SAD lamp.
We keep one of these affordable light panels on his desk all day to maintain healthy circadian rhythms.
How Light Boxes Improve Mood
By providing ample exposure to short wavelength blue light that mimics natural outdoor light, these LED light boxes can activate biological mechanisms involved in:
- Boosting mood
- Increasing feelings of energy and alertness
- Regulating healthy sleep cycles
Carefully using an artificial bright light source like this, especially during darker winter months, can help compensate for less natural sunlight exposure.
