Effects of Light and Supplements for Natural Light on our Well-being

A reduced exposure to daytime light causes many problems, ranging from general fatigue to mood swings, winter blues, and even anxiety, sleep deprivation, carbohydrate cravings, and dampened spirits. These symptoms usually appear in the autumn and winter months, when the days are getting shorter and the nights longer. People working in light-deprived environments or as shift workers during the night may suffer from these or similar symptoms, even all year round. Especially in northern latitudes, and facing this modern lifestyle, it is no wonder that the question came up, if it is possible to supplement natural light.

Bright light has been used as an effective treatment for symptoms caused by lack of daylight since the 1980's. Classical bright light therapy, however, has been administered through the eyes, that are known to be sensitive to light. Using bright light lamps, people are required to sit in front of the lamp for at least half an hour each day. That light-sensitive areas of the brain can also be reached through the ear canal, the tissue of the ear, and the skull bone, has been discovered by researchers at the University of Oulu in 2008-2010. The skull of large mammals, including humans, lets light pass through naturally; and in ordinary daylight conditions, the brain is exposed to light always during daytime.

The results of this research led to the development of the Valkee in-ear transcranial bright light therapy device. Light therapy with the Valkee is quick and convenient. The device also uses a lot less energy than traditional bright light lamps, and it does not cause eye irritation. It is sufficient to use the Valkee LED-headset to shine bright light on the brain for just 12 minutes a day to significantly raise energy levels, mood, and improve well-being.