Darkness for Better Sleep: Unraveling the Science Behind Light's Impact on Circadian Rhythm

• Sleep quality is directly linked to light exposure, with darkness promoting sleep and light causing wakefulness due to the body's natural biological clock.
• The circadian rhythm, a 24-hour internal clock, is controlled by a brain region that receives signals from retinal cells, influencing hormone release and sleep-wake cycles.
• Artificial light from streetlights, offices, and screens disrupts the circadian rhythm, leading to delayed sleep, frequent awakenings, and incomplete rest.
• Prolonged exposure to artificial light can negatively impact metabolism, cause weight gain, and increase risks of heart disease and mental health issues.
• Light, especially blue light, suppresses melatonin production, the sleep hormone, making it harder to fall asleep; experts recommend reducing light and avoiding screens before bed.

Why It Matters: Darkness is crucial for quality sleep as light directly controls our circadian rhythm and melatonin production.