Essay on the Impact of Light on Health (Chronobiology)

                The topic of Chronobiology brings a new understanding of the affects of light on the human physiological, mental, and behavioral state. We respond to a broad range of light spectra, intensities, and time patterns. Light sets an internal clock in our bodies that run on a 24-hour cycle that is said to regulate 10% of our genes, according to the New York Times article "In Eyes, a Clock Calibrated by Wavelengths of Light" by Laura Beil. Melatonin is a hormone in the body whose main function is to regulate night and day, sleep and awake cycles as they occur to the individual, as they regulate a variety of biological processes. Certain types of light actually suppress the production of melatonin in our systems (circadian rhythms), which cause a delay in our sleep cycles. Specifically the blue wave lengths found in LED lighting of the energy-efficient bulbs, as well as new electronic technology versus traditional florescent lighting. Oppositely studies show that LED and blue lights increase your memory and cognition. Your body is basically at high alert while it is at the same time frustrated because it is ready for rest. Light at night has been noted as a probable cause for certain types of cancers and carcinogens, as well as shift work, as it disrupts the biological clock.

                When considering light in the designs of our architecture and interiors, we should be thinking of the influence of light on health and behavior of the human mind. It is unhealthy to get unnatural light for extended periods throughout our lives. It has been discovered that this could be one of the many causes of degenerative disease and cancers. When applying lighting fixtures and blockage in healthcare facilities, we should be conscious of the circadian rhythms. The second article supports the idea of designers adapt to reduce the affects of blue and LED lighting to increase the circadian patterns. Thus healing the health problems that many shift workers. Light influences myriad physiological, mental, and behavioral responses beyond those of melatonin systems alone.