are not part of the visual system. They are active even with eyes closed and while
asleep. It is theorized that blue sky exposure is how these ganglion cell photoreceptors
evolved their specialized purpose.
These photoreceptors regulate circadian rhythms primarily via melatonin secretion.
When exposed to this specific band, melatonin production is suppressed for several
hours.
The Melatonin Action Spectrum
A specific component of natural sunlight, short wavelength blue light in the narrow
446-483 nanometer (nm) wavelength is the melatonin action spectrum. Researchers
recently discovered that this specific blue wavelength plays a major role in aligning
and resetting the body clock through melatonin suppression. As this is also the
wavelength of the clear, blue sky, it follows that exposure to the sky.
Approximately 460-470 nm is the peak light range for melatonin suppression. The
MindSpa CalmBlue glasses are tuned within a few nanometers of the peak frequency
range making them very effective for resetting the body clock.
Circadian Rhythm Disorders
Circadian rhythm disorders are typically are related to sudden and/or extreme changes
in the relationship between exposure to environmental light and activity. For example,
circadian rhythm disorders are known to be associated with change in geographical
location (jet lag), aging, and night activity (night time shift workers).
Another common type of circadian rhythm disorder is seasonal affective disorder
(SAD), which is characterized by symptoms such as lethargy and depression during
the winter seasons when the duration of daylight is reduced. Due to decreased light
exposure melatonin production continues during the waking hours.
Symptoms much like jet lag are common in people who work nights or who perform
shift work. Because shift work schedules are at odds with powerful sleep-regulating
cues like sunlight, they often become uncontrollably drowsy during work, and they
may suffer insomnia or other problems when they try to sleep.
Shift workers have an increased risk of heart problems, digestive disturbances, and
emotional and mental problems, all of which may be related to their sleeping
problems. The number and severity of workplace accidents also tend to increase
during the night shift. Recent evidence suggests it may be possible to reduce
shift-related fatigue by exposure to specific frequencies of blue light in the workplace,
minimizing shift changes, and taking scheduled naps.
Sunlight also causes other changes in the body, such as increases in serotonin
production. Serotonin neurotransmitter production increases when a person is exposed
to sunlight. Low levels of serotonin are associated with depression and mood swings.
Along with using MindSpa, it is important to get as much light as possible every day
for health, balance and general well-being. This becomes even more necessary in the
winter when light levels are low.
Using Program 00
For general well being and balance use each morning shortly after waking up for a
minimum of a one-half hour dosage though 45 to 60 minutes is preferred. Time of
year and location play an important role. If you are receiving low exposure to natural
light use more often to maintain circadian balance.
For general sleep-related issues such as going to sleep and waking up early, use every
morning. One-half hour to one hour per day, each day should be sufficient for most.
This is known as an advanced phase response, meaning going to sleep earlier than
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