1. Brighten Your Outlook
Depression and sleep disorders can be treated with light therapy using specially-designed bright lights. Since the 1980s these lights have proven to be successful in helping people with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This type of depression affects people who live in northern climates where the winter months are long and the days are short. Many mental health professionals believe light therapy can also help certain individuals experiencing sleep problems caused by disrupted circadian rhythms, which represent the body's time clock.
2. Activates the Pineal Gland
The pineal gland resides in the brain and responds to light entering the eyes. At nighttime the pineal gland secretes melatonin, a hormone associated with sleep. Melatonin production stops when light passes to the eyes through closed eyelids. Beyond melatonin, the endocrine system conducts its work through a complex network of glands and secretions throughout the body. Pineal gland function influences the thyroid, the pituitary and the reproductive organs. Light therapy promotes pineal gland activity by introducing light through the eyes.
3. Pick a Time and Place for Light Therapy
People do light therapy by sitting in front of a specially-designed light box for anywhere from 1/2 to 2 hours a day. More intensive light box emission requires even less time to do the job. It's best to do light box therapy in the morning because light therapy administered later in the day or in the evening can interfere with bedtime sleep. When utilizing a light box, position it slightly higher than your head so the light shines down on you. Avoid looking directly into the light since it can harm your eyes and eyesight. Allow the light to enter your eyes indirectly.
4. Fix Sleep Disorders
Although light therapy is most widely recommended for the treatment of Seasonal Affective Disorder and persistent sleep disorders, it can aid in the treatment of temporary sleep cycle disruptions. Jet lag due to travel across different time zones and living with a daily inverted schedule when working an evening or overnight shift are both examples of broken routine sleep patterns.
5. Everyone Can't See the Light
Some people should not use light therapy or should use it only with caution. Individuals diagnosed with a bipolar disorder can experience manic episodes if exposed to light therapy. Those suffering from macular degeneration or any disorders in which the eyes are more sensitive to light should also avoid light therapy. Possible side effects of light therapy include headache, nausea, eye irritation and dry eyes.
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