To understand how venting skylights improve REM sleep, it is essential to know about the biological master clock. Every living creature has an internal clock used to anticipate day/night cycles. More commonly known as the circadian rhythm, this clock optimizes our mind and body. Having it perfectly synchronized is key to an ideal start to the day. Upon waking, the body begins to produce serotonin. This production continues throughout the day. As the sun sets, the body converts serotonin into melatonin.
After the sun sets, our internal clock eases the body into a relaxed state, which lowers metabolism, increases the production of growth hormones, and rinses the brain of toxins. Maintaining moderately high serotonin levels results in a more positive mood and a calm yet focused mental outlook. However, a circadian rhythm that is not properly regulated can lead to poor sleep and result in various negative outcomes, including impaired cognitive function, increased stress, depression, and cardiovascular diseases.
According to the book The Way We Live Now, over 60% of people believe that natural light is the single most important attribute in a home. Humans process daylight primarily through the eyes. It is absorbed by cones on the optic nerve. This signals the production of serotonin, which the body uses to regulate itself. Serotonin also improves the central nervous and muscular systems.
By contrast, electric light is dim and ill-timed, disrupting all aspects of the circadian rhythm. The intensity and spectrum are not adequate during the day to properly reset the main biological clock. When it is not properly reset, there is an uptick in conditions like obesity and depression. When the main biological clock is reset properly, people fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Studies have shown that exposure to high daylight levels can add 46 minutes of sleep. This has been the result for many who install skylights as they let in 2.5 times more light than vertical windows.
According to The Indoor Environment Handbook, a reduction in indoor air pollutants creates a better quality of sleep while making people less susceptible to respiratory diseases. The human nose cannot detect the most harmful air pollutants in buildings and homes. These indoor air pollutants include carbon dioxide emitted by humans and appliances, radon gas, mold, pollen, dust mites, and volatile inorganic chemicals (VOCs). These can come from humans, pets, building materials, and other outdoor sources. They are known for irritating airways, triggering respiratory issues, and even affecting the brain's sleep patterns, leading to difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, and experiencing restful sleep.
Venting skylights can significantly reduce the number of indoor air pollutants. When a skylight and one vertical window or door are open, the stack effect is created. This lets stale indoor air flow up and out through the skylight, drawing fresh air in through the vertical window. This process refreshes the air in a home three times faster than vertical windows alone. To maximize the benefits, the skylight and window only need to be open for twenty minutes twice a day.
Venting skylights are one of the best ways to upgrade a home while naturally improving the health and well-being of the homeowners. For homeowners who are looking to learn more about the health benefits of skylights and Sun Tunnel skylights, we have Design and Product Advisors available. They are happy to discuss venting skylights, architectural skylights, and even large span skylights for custom homes.
For roofers, contractors, and remodelers, VELUX offers hands-on and online skylight installation training in select areas. Pro Partner Academies are located in several major cities for an in-class experience. Mobile installation vans are also available to provide an on-the-job workshop. We also have several skylight installation videos available online.
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