The impact of daytime light exposures on sleep and mood in office workers

This study investigated how daytime exposure to circadian-effective light affects sleep and mood in 109 office workers over winter and summer. Workers exposed to higher levels of morning light experienced better sleep quality, shorter sleep onset latency, and lower rates of depression compared to those with low light exposure. Full-day high light exposure also improved circadian synchronization and mood. The study highlights the importance of proper light exposure in indoor work environments to support sleep health and emotional well-being, particularly in seasons with less natural daylight.

Enhance your exposure to bright, natural light in the morning by positioning workspaces near windows or using daylight-simulating artificial lights. This improves sleep, mood, and circadian rhythm alignment. These recommendations are well-supported by evidence from field studies, though the effects can vary by season and individual sensitivity. Ensuring consistent light exposure is key to optimizing both mental and physical health in indoor environments.