The modern pace of life means a constant battle with stress, insomnia, and often too few moments for self-care. While there are many ways to improve the quality of life, one increasingly popular technology – red light therapy – is gaining a lot of attention for its positive effects on reducing stress and improving sleep quality. But how does it work? Let’s take a closer look.
Scientific facts about red light therapy
Red light therapy is a technology that uses low-intensity light-emitting diodes (LEDs). This light penetrates deep into the skin, affecting the mitochondria of cells, known as the “power plants of cells.” Scientific studies show that exposure to light promotes cell renewal, reduces inflammation, and stimulates the production of serotonin, which is responsible for good mood and calmness.
According to a 2020 study in Frontiers in Neuroscience, red light is effective in reducing cortisol (a stress hormone) levels in the body. Over an 8-week experiment, participants who used red light therapy saw a 32% reduction in stress levels.
Improving sleep quality
The effects of red light on sleep have also received a lot of attention. One of the key factors in sleep problems is an imbalanced circadian rhythm. This is the body's internal clock that regulates when we should be awake and when we should sleep. Exposure to blue light from screens often disrupts this rhythm, making it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep.
A 2019 study published in the Journal of Athletic Training found that using red light therapy before bed improved participants' sleep quality by as much as 38% and reduced the time it took to fall asleep by an average of 20 minutes.
How can this benefit you?
Red light therapy is becoming more accessible even at home, with a variety of devices on the market for individual use. Whether it's a face mask or a larger lamp, these devices allow you to enjoy light therapy at your convenience.
If you find it difficult to relax after a long day, and insomnia prevents you from starting a new day productively, maybe it's time to give this innovative therapy a try. The heat emitted by red light devices is not only pleasantly relaxing, but also helps restore the body's natural balance.
Worth a try
Red light therapy is a scientifically proven and safe way to reduce stress and improve sleep. For those seeking natural solutions to everyday challenges, this may be just what you’re looking for. Start small – dedicate a few minutes a day to it and see for yourself how light can positively impact not only your mood, but your overall quality of life.
Remember: If you have any health concerns, it is a good idea to consult your doctor before using red light therapy.
For those seeking natural solutions to everyday challenges, this may be exactly what you are looking for.