Enhancing Natural Light in your Bedroom: Expert Suggestions for Reducing Morning Lethargy and Improving Sleep Quality
Enhancing natural light in the bedroom for a more invigorating wake-up
By Maddie Balcombe
A feeling of persistent exhaustion upon waking could be attributed to inadequate natural light levels in your bedroom. Not only does this hinder the start of your day, but chronic morning fatigue can negatively impact your mood, energy levels, and productivity throughout the remainder of the day. If this scenario resonates, read on to discover ways to maximise natural light within your sleeping space.
Recent research reveals that the light conditions within the bedroom prior to waking have a direct impact on our overall restfulness. The study found that increased levels of natural light in the morning can improve wakefulness, reduce fatigue, and maintain alertness throughout the day.
Unfortunately, many homes are not equipped to make the most of natural light, as surrounding buildings may obstruct sunlight or windows face northward. However, there are various design techniques to incorporate into your bedroom for a more illuminated environment.
The Significance of Natural Light in the Bedroom
Natural light plays a significant role in our sleep-wake cycle, particularly in the morning. According to Mike Murray, director of Land of Beds, "Light is one of the biggest external factors affecting how well or badly we sleep. Getting natural light in the morning, especially in your bedroom, can help reset your sleep-wake cycle." It signals to the brain that it's time to start the day, thereby decreasing melatonin levels and encouraging a more awake and alert state.
Although darkness is still essential for sleep, striking a balance between darkness and light exposure is crucial. Ana Zuravliova, trend specialist at Blinds Direct, explains, "Natural light is most beneficial during the morning. With natural light, the body suppresses melatonin - the hormone that induces sleep - which helps with improved mood and well-being. But, darkness is best for getting to sleep and remaining so."
Adjusting to a lighter sleeping environment during longer days and lighter nights may be challenging as we transition into the summer months. If you find this difficult, sleeping with a light eye mask could be a viable solution. These masks block out more light than expected at nighttime while still providing the benefits of natural light in the morning. Alternatively, you might consider investing in light-filtering curtains or blinds to let the light in gradually.
Strategies for Optimising Natural Light in the Bedroom
Utilize Mirrors Strategically
Mirrors have long been a staple in bedroom design, and they can be deployed effectively to amplify natural light within the room. As Ethan Fox, interior expert at Furniture World, comments, "A mirror is an age-old trick for doubling the amount of natural light in a room to create a bright and airy feel." Place a large mirror on a wall opposite your bedroom window for optimal reflection. This addition not only maximises light but also contributes to a tranquil environment according to feng shui principles.
In the event that this placement is not practical in your space, consider incorporating furniture with mirrored surfaces or a glossy, light finish to help cultivate natural light around the room.
Maintain Clean Windows
It may seem obvious, but your windows are the primary source of natural light entering your room. Ethan advises, "Keeping your windows free from dirt and stains will go a long way in increasing the natural light within your bedroom. Use a glass cleaner and microfibre cloth to keep them sparkling clean." Clean windows will improve the level of daylight entering the room.
Should you wish for a more substantial project, consider installing new windows, such as transom windows above doors or skylights, to allow greater amounts of sunlight into your bedroom.
Choose a Light Colour Scheme
The colour of your bedroom walls plays a role in how light is reflected and dispersed throughout the space. To optimise natural light, aim for light neutral shades like cream or beige. These colours reflect light efficiently, contributing to a brighter space.
If you desire more colour in your scheme, light shades of pink, blue, or green may still provide the benefits of increased light exposure. Remember, lighter colours typically yield better results.
Opt for Airy Curtains and Blinds
When selecting window treatments for your bedroom, prioritise lightweight, sheer fabrics. These allow sunlight to penetrate while maintaining privacy. According to Mike, "Adding a sheer curtain to your bedroom is great for letting in sunlight while keeping things private."
For maximum functionality and style, pair sheer curtains with the appropriate blind. As Ana suggests, "When all are closed, you can enjoy total darkness, but as the blind opens in the morning, sunlight will filter through the curtains while maintaining your privacy."
Organise the Layout of the Room
The arrangement of furniture in your bedroom can significantly impact the flow of natural light. To ensure that light travels unobstructed throughout the space, avoid placing tall and bulky furniture pieces in areas obstructing windows or entryways. It is best to position these pieces in corners to prevent blocking light sources. Additionally, selecting furniture with thin legs or minimal designs can allow more light to pass through the room.
With these expert-approved techniques, you'll soon appreciate the benefits of natural light in your bedroom. By enhancing wakefulness, reducing fatigue, and boosting alertness, these design strategies will improve your overall mood and productivity throughout the day.
- Mike Murray, director of Land of Beds, recommends incorporating natural light in the morning within your sleeping space, as it can help reset your sleep-wake cycle, increase wakefulness, and maintain alertness throughout the day.
- When designing your bedroom for a more illuminated environment, Ethan Fox, an interior expert at Furniture World, suggests using mirrors strategically to double the amount of natural light, positioning furniture with thin legs or minimal designs to prevent blocking light sources, and opting for airy curtains and blinds, such as sheer fabrics, to allow sunlight while maintaining privacy.
