THE SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH Sleep & Circadian Rhythms MELANOPSIN A photopigment which is sensitive to blue light (480-490 nm) like the blue sky. It is in the Retina, in the ipRGCs (intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells) of the human eye. Melanopsin communicates with the brain directly with the SCN, and not via the visual cortex. PINEAL […]
Why are circadian rhythms influenced by light? Read More »
THE SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH. The Circadian Rhythm All life on earth, has adapted to the 24-hour day night cycle, in synchronization with the earth’s rotation around the sun. To anticipate events timed with the earth’s rotation, all organisms contain an internal timekeeper. We call this cycling pattern, circadian rhythms. To align specific biological functions to night
Sleep & Circadian Rhythms Read More »
The SSRI citalopram increases the sensitivity of the human circadian system to light to an acute dose Release of Melatonin (Melatonin Onset) Healthy sleeper, under dim light: 2-hours 40 minutes before bedtime Healthy sleeper with a placebo and exposed to 100 lx room light (no SSRIs): 1-hour 9 minutes before bedtime Healthy sleeper with
Impact of SSRIs (antidepressants) on light sensitivity and sleep Read More »
Blood flow changes in the brain due to fatigue During sleep restriction there is reduced functional connectivity between the emotion regulation centre and the emotion processing centre. This increases emotional reactivity to negative stimuli.Generally, the frontal lobes provide inhibition to the amygdala. However, when the amygdala is activated, “amygdala hijack” can result in emotional overload
Impact of inadequate sleep on the brain & emotions Read More »
Every year, thousands of Australians unknowingly take a dangerous gamble when they get behind the wheel tired. Fatigue doesn’t just make you drowsy, it significantly impairs reaction time, decision-making, and alertness, making it one of the leading causes of road accidents.
Many people are unaware of the powerful effect of light on sleep. In the hours before bed, our bodies expect very low levels of light. In our brain, the hormone melatonin is produced in the evening, promoting sleep.
The power of light: Enhancing sleep quality through smart lighting Read More »
