The Benefits of Natural Light in Your Home

Improves Your Mood, Health, & Productivity

It makes sense that natural light has so many benefits for the human body since we are part of nature! Natural light exposure, outside as well as indoors, has been linked to numerous physical and mental health benefits. Sunlight assists in regulating our circadian rhythm, enabling us to maintain a healthy sleep cycle; it also triggers the production of serotonin, a hormone that promotes feelings of happiness and well-being. Finally, living in a home with ample natural light can help you feel more alert and focused throughout the day, increase Vitamin D production, and reduce your stress levels.

Minimizes Energy Costs

By limiting the need for artificial lighting during the day, natural light allows you to reduce your energy consumption and in turn minimize energy costs. In the summer months when the days are long, taking advantage of natural light instead of artificial light can help offset the cost of air conditioning. You might even go all day without turning lights on if you have a window-filled home. In winter, natural warmth from the sun can also offset heating costs. If you live in a climate with extreme weather, be sure to consider insulation through the walls, windows, and roof for a truly energy-efficient home. Together these features can result in significant energy savings over time.

Creates Visual Appeal

Have you ever been stunned by the beauty of a room simply because of how natural light interacted with the space? Natural light has a way of making spaces feel more inviting, warm, and comfortable. It can even make small rooms feel larger. When designing a home, envision yourself in each room and consider how window placements will guide light throughout the space and create the aesthetic you desire.

Keeps Your Plants Happy

Any plant lover knows that most plants love bright, indirect light. You’ll even see their leaves reaching toward the sunlight. If you’ve ever lived in a darker home, you’ve learned the hard way that your plants will suffer for it—unless they’re all snake plants, of course! Ample natural light that fills your entire space allows much more flexibility with where you can situate your plants, rather than needing to squish them all in the sunniest corner. The more plants, the merrier!

Final thoughts

Natural light has numerous benefits for everyone, ranging from improved mood and productivity to reduced energy costs and healthier plants. It’s also an incredibly versatile design tool. No matter what your style is, you can find a way to incorporate natural light. Here’s to a home that’s healthy, inviting, and energy-efficient!