When I realized our bodies have light needs, everything changed.

Getting ☀️ each morning went from a "nice to do" to a MUST DO OR ELSE.

Reducing blue light exposure at night using Nightshift (F.lux app), using blue light blockers, and replacing all our regular blue bulbs with orange glow bulbs changed from "hack" to THE ONLY WAY TO LIVE FORever.

It all started when I dug into the research on red and near-infrared light. (Check out this spreadsheet with over 5000 published studies 🤯).

Next, I spent some time researching infrared and conventional saunas (another incredible modality with much research backing it).

Then circadian rhythms and how light feeds the human body—light is the energy that fuels our cells.

Everything made sense as I learned the differences between blue light, red light, and the invisible light spectrum (near and far infrared). 

Like why we are drawn outside when the sun is out. Why are we more likely to feel sad when it's raining out. And why too much blue light disrupts circadian rhythms.

All this fit into my current understanding of health based on our ancestral past, and the more I study and utilize it, the more obvious it becomes.

Once you see this, it feels so DUH. And that's why we now promote light nutrition and sell light-supporting products as part of our Wild Goal to help you live your healthiest and best life.

Light is so crucial to human health that we feel compelled to promote it and sell products to help you achieve your light goals.

Nutrition does not come from just food.

Your environment and how it affects your biology are part of your nutrition plan. It's your job to feed your body what it needs and reduce exposure to what it doesn't.

You are assaulted by light (good and bad) every day. The modern environment is not optimized for health, which we already know, so it's 100% up to you to control your light environment. These light products are your most accessible way to prove your light plan today. They require nearly no extra effort. Turn them on, swap them out, or put them on. Easy.

If you could put the benefits of red light and near-infrared light into a pill, it would be the most profitable pharmaceutical in the world.

According to recent market research, the global market for red light treatment is projected to reach $ 1351.09 million by 2027. This shows that more and more people worldwide are using light therapy for health and wellness purposes.

Red light therapy, also called low-level light therapy or photobiomodulation, is a safe and non-invasive method of health care that uses red and near-infrared light to speed up the body's natural healing processes and fuel mitochondria. 

Over 3000 studies have shown that red light and near-infrared light could be helpful in various medical procedures.

In this guide, we will cover this health modality in detail so that by the end, you will better understand its benefits and hopefully be convinced to add this routine to your health program.

Sun and Light

The sun is the generator of everything in our solar system and is the ultimate source of all life on Earth. Without the sun, life on Earth would not be possible. Light, a form of electromagnetic radiation, is the energy that powers all life.

Light waves are measured in nanometers (NM), with a visible spectrum between 400 and 700nm. Unfortunately, the human eye can only detect 9% of the available range. Red light, which falls between 600 and 700nm, represents the highest part of the visible spectrum. You get near-infrared light as you progress along the spectrum towards the 700nm to 1,100nm range.

Red and near-infrared light have a bioactive effect on humans, and they are known to power the cells. Unlike humans, who can only see a fraction of the electromagnetic spectrum, near-infrared light is one of the most heavily studied. It has been shown to provide numerous health benefits.

One of the pivotal epiphanies in my understanding of light was the analogy to food nutrition. 

Light gives our cells energy and is a crucial part of how our hormones work, how well we move, sleep, and how our genes are expressed. 

Just like food, we need light in the right amounts and quantities. 

Science has identified five types of bioactive light in humans: 

• Ultraviolet light (UV Light) - how your body synthesizes vitamin D from the Sun
• Blue Light - large impact on setting circadian rhythm
• Red Light - stimulates ATP production at the mitochondrial level
• Far infrared light - heats up your body. When you feel the sun's heat, this is what you're feeling
• Near-infrared light - Stimulates ATP and acts on mitochondria 

It's well understood that vitamin D deficiency, caused by insufficient UV light, is a culprit in many modern diseases. Similarly, blue light has been linked to mental health issues and insomnia due to the rise of devices everywhere.

While we may not know the exact mechanisms of each wavelength and its resulting health implications, it's safe to surmise that humans need the full spectrum of light the sun provides in whatever the average dose is.

Having the proper amount of these five forms of light is crucial for maintaining good health in humans. During the last few generations, modern humans have switched to living indoor lives with electricity, artificial lighting systems, and little sun exposure. 

As a result, we have developed light deficiencies and toxicities that seriously harm our health and quality of life.

Now imagine how many other modern chronic diseases, which science has yet to understand fully, are directly connected to light imbalances. 

Maybe it's the lack of red and NIR light that's causing so many issues? 

Maybe it's the far infrared, which we can only get from fire, the sun, or the heat from something like a radiator, is what we're missing in our modern environment? 

I think it's ALL of these.

As science catches up by studying the benefits of light and light technology, I feel it's just telling us something we should already know—our environment is mismatched to our biology.

Red light and near-infrared light have grown in popularity as science has caught up with the principle of human health. As demonstrated by the benefits of these two types of light, incorporating them into your health program can lead to a healthier, happier life.

Some of the consequences of light deficiency are:

• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): SAD is a type of depression that occurs during the fall and winter seasons when there is less natural light from the sun. The lack of the sun can affect the body's production of serotonin and melatonin, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.
• Vitamin D deficiency: Vitamin D is synthesized when the skin is exposed to sunlight. A lack of the sun can lead to a flaw in this vital nutrient, weakening bones, muscle weakness, and an increased risk of chronic diseases.
• Sleep disturbances: Exposure to natural light helps regulate the body's internal clock or circadian rhythm. Light deficiency can disrupt this rhythm and lead to sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns.
• Mental health problems: Light deficiency has been linked to an increased risk of an anxiety attacks and depression, cognitive decline, and dementia in older adults.

Photobiomodulation is a light therapy that utilizes low-level wavelengths of light to treat various conditions. This therapy is also referred to as photobiomodulation, low-level light therapy, or simply as red light.

It's a therapy that doesn't hurt and doesn't have to be done in a hospital. It's become popular recently because it helps treat skin problems, pain, inflammation, and other problems. But how does this red light therapy work? 

Let's unpack everything for you.

Unpacking the Science: How Red Light Therapy Works

Red Light Therapy stimulates the body's natural healing mechanisms at a cellular level. The red light penetrates the skin and is absorbed by the cells, triggering a series of biological processes.

These processes include:

*Increased production of collagen and elastin

*Healing and inflammation are aided by the boost in blood and oxygen supply.

*Increased cellular energy generation aids in the healing of injured tissues and organs

Red light therapy has existed since ancient times when people used the sun's healing rays to treat many health problems. In the early 1900s, scientists began to study the therapeutic effects of light, and in the 1960s, the first low-level laser therapy was developed.

Since then, research has continued to advance and refine the use of light therapy for various applications.

Several Phototherapy devices are available, each with unique features and benefits. 

These include:

Light Panels: These are large panels that emit red light and can be used to treat the entire body.

Handheld Devices: These smaller devices can target specific body areas, such as the face or joints.

Full-Body Beds: These are beds that emit red light and can be used to treat the entire body while lying down.

Infrared Saunas: These saunas cast red and infrared light for relaxation and detoxification.

Here are the list of features to look for when in the market for a red light device:

Consider the type of device: There are several red light therapy devices, including handheld devices, light panels, and full-body beds. Consider your needs and preferences before choosing a device.

Check the wavelengths: Different wavelengths of red and near-infrared light affect the body differently. Look for machines that emit wavelengths between 630-660 nm for skin-related benefits and 810-850 nm for more profound tissue benefits.

Check the intensity: The light emitted by the device is measured in milliwatts per square centimeter (mW/cm²). Look for a device with a power of at least 20-50 mW/cm² for optimal results.

Check the coverage area: The device's coverage area is essential, especially if you want a full-body treatment. Ensure the device covers the space you need and the treatment is manageable.

Red light is a simple and effective way to correct your light nutrition imbalance. But before you dive in, it's important to know how to use it safely and effectively is essential. Here are some helpful guidelines to keep in mind.

Recommended Exposure Times and Distances

The recommended exposure time for red light treatment can vary depending on the type of device you are using and the area of your body you are treating. Generally, exposure times can range from a few minutes to half an hour.

Start with shorter exposure times and gradually increase the duration as your body adapts to the therapy.

The distance between the device and your skin can also affect the effectiveness of the treatment. Typically, the closer the device is to your skin, the more intense the therapy.

Precautions

Avoid looking directly into the light, as this can damage your eyes.

Do not use this therapy if you are pregnant, have epilepsy, or take photosensitizing medications.

Before using this therapy, check with your healthcare provider for any medical conditions or concerns.

Best Practices for A Daily Red light Treatment Routine

Red light is a non-invasive, low-risk treatment that uses specific wavelengths of red light to improve various health conditions. 

If you're considering integrating red light therapy into your daily routine, here are some best practices to follow:

Set a Schedule

Setting a schedule for red light treatment is essential to ensure consistency in your routine. Character is critical to getting the best results from red light therapy. Consider scheduling a specific time each day for your red light therapy session, such as before or after your shower or workout.

Start Slowly

If you're new to red light treatment, start with shorter sessions and gradually increase the duration and intensity. This will help your body adjust to the treatment and minimize adverse reactions. Start with a 5-10 minute session and gradually increase to a maximum of 30 minutes.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water is essential for the overall health of your body, and it's necessary when using red light therapy. Red light therapy can cause mild dehydration, so drink enough water before and after your session.

Keep Skin Clean

Before beginning red light therapy, ensure your skin is clean and clear of oils or lotions. This makes it possible for the light to permeate the skin more deeply and safely without causing any discomfort. Clean the affected area with water and a light soap before starting treatment.

Combine with Other Treatments

Red light treatment can be combined with other medicines to enhance its benefits. For example, mixing red light therapy with exercise, proper nutrition, and good sleep hygiene can help you achieve better overall health.

Photobiomodulation is safe, non-invasive, and practical, with numerous health benefits. In this guide, we have covered the basics of phototherapy, including its definition, how it works, the history and evolution of the treatment, the different types of devices available, and its associated health benefits. 

While red light treatment is generally safe, following guidelines on using the devices safely and effectively is crucial to avoid adverse effects. When choosing a red light therapy device, it is essential to consider factors such as the type of device, its wavelength, intensity, and safety features.

In light of the many health benefits of phototherapy, you should try it as part of your daily health regime. Whether you are an athlete looking to enhance your performance, someone struggling with chronic pain, or simply interested in improving your overall health and well-being, red light therapy is worth considering.

Check out Noble Red devices in the Wild Shop.