Scientists, after extensive studies, are finally beginning to fully understand the effect that light has on our internal systems. “The light receptors in our eyes communicate directly with the brain, synchronizing the circadian clocks that affect our immunity, appetite, mood, energy, and even pain tolerance,” says Charles Czeisler, M.D., Ph.D., the chief of the Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Exposing yourself to the right rays at the right time has a huge impact on every aspect of your health.
THE LIGHT-BRAIN CONNECTION
When light enters your eyes, it’s transmitted directly to a small cluster of brain cells in your hypothalamus, called the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). Your SCN is your body’s master clock, says Dan Pardi, Ph.D., a former researcher in the departments of neurology…