People who are exposed to sunlight perform better.

Daylighting, the use of natural light in buildings, has long been recognized for its positive effects on human health and well-being. In recent years, there has been growing interest in understanding how daylighting influences human performance, particularly in educational and office environments. This article explores the findings of various studies and research initiatives that investigate the relationship between daylighting and human performance.

1. Cognitive Performance
Several studies have suggested that exposure to natural light can improve cognitive performance. Research conducted by the Heschong Mahone Group found that students in classrooms with more natural light progressed 20% faster on math tests and 26% faster on reading tests compared to students in classrooms with less natural light. Similarly, a study published in the “Journal of Environmental Psychology” reported that office workers with more natural light exposure scored higher on cognitive function tests than those with less exposure.

2. Mood and Well-being
Daylighting has also been linked to improved mood and well-being. A study published in the “Journal of Sleep Medicine and Disorders” found that individuals exposed to natural light during the day reported better sleep quality and fewer instances of depression compared to those with limited natural light exposure. Another study published in the “Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine” reported that office workers with windows in their workspace had higher levels of overall well-being compared to those without windows.

3. Productivity
The relationship between daylighting and productivity has been a focus of several studies. Research conducted by the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology found that employees working in offices with more natural light reported higher levels of job satisfaction and performed better on cognitive tasks compared to those working in offices with less natural light. Similarly, a study published in “Building and Environment” reported that call center employees with more daylight exposure experienced higher levels of productivity and took fewer sick days compared to those with less exposure.

4. Physical Health
In addition to its impact on cognitive performance and well-being, daylighting has been associated with improved physical health. Research published in the “Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism” found that individuals exposed to natural light had lower levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, compared to those with limited natural light exposure. Lower cortisol levels have been linked to reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and other chronic health conditions.

In conclusion, the relationship between daylighting and human performance is a complex and multifaceted one. The evidence suggests that exposure to natural light can have a positive impact on cognitive performance, mood, well-being, productivity, and physical health.

How much natural light do we need for our health?
On average, most people benefit from about 30 minutes to 2 hours of natural light exposure per day to maintain their health. This exposure can help regulate circadian rhythms, improve mood, and boost vitamin D levels. However, individual needs vary based on factors like age, skin type, and geographic location. Some people may require more or less daylight exposure to reap the benefits. It’s also important to balance natural light exposure with protecting your skin from excessive sun exposure.