Does it count to get sunlight through a window?
Sources:
Sunlight through a window is significantly less effective in providing the benefits of sunlight to our circadian system. emphasizes that the neurons in our eyes that adjust our circadian clock are most responsive to the specific quality and amount of light that comes from direct sunlight when the sun is low in the sky. Getting sunlight in your eyes is crucial, and doing so through a window is about 50 times less effective than being outside without any barriers such as windows or sunglasses. This is because glass windows filter out certain wavelengths of light that are important for setting circadian rhythms. Therefore, even on cloudy or overcast days, it is beneficial to seek outdoor sunlight to expose your eyes and skin to the full spectrum of natural light as much as safely possible 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8.
Can sunlight through window screen (not window glass) which allows an estimated 66% of sunlight through, be an effective alternate to setting circadian rhythm ?
Sources:
Sunlight through a window screen, even if it allows 66% of sunlight to pass through, is still far less effective for setting your circadian rhythm compared to direct sunlight exposure outdoors. explains that light passing through any kind of barrier, including window screens and glass, significantly diminishes the intensity of light, measured in lux, that reaches your eyes. This means that while some light may still filter through screens, it does not have the same biological impact as direct sunlight.
Huberman states that exposure to sunlight through a typical window could take 50 to 100 times longer to activate your circadian rhythms compared to direct sunlight. This reduction is due to the filtering effects of the window material and the additional loss when passing through a screen, which can significantly lower the lux levels 1.
Key Points:
- Direct Exposure: Direct sunlight is essential for optimal circadian rhythm setting.
- Diminished Effect: Light through windows and screens is much less effective due to scattering and filtering of wavelengths 2.
- Biological Impact: The lack of sufficient lux exposure from filtered light means individuals won't receive the full range of benefits associated with natural sunlight.
Thus, for effective circadian regulation, it's recommended to spend time outdoors whenever possible.
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