Do you feel tired in the morning? Sleepy or unmotivated during the day? Is it hard to fall asleep at night? As per tradition, student counseling offers lamps to help you get a brighter start to the day.
Light is one of the most important factors affecting our circadian rhythm. When our eyes are exposed to daylight, melatonin production is regulated. This substance is vital for our internal biological clock, which sets our bodies to night and day. If melatonin production is disrupted, it can lead to circadian rhythm disturbances and sleep problems.
Bright light early in the day!
A daylight lamp provides light with a specific intensity (typically 10,000 lux) and is used by sitting near the lamp for 30 minutes or more.
The lamps should only be used in the morning until lunchtime, to avoid disturbing your circadian rhythm. The goal is to meet the body's need for sunlight. You won’t get a tan from this type of lamp, only energy.
10 minutes is enough
Those seeking an energy boost can try 10 minutes twice a week. If you experience real sleep disturbances or circadian rhythm changes, try 30-45 minutes daily for two weeks. Instructions on how to use the lamps will be provided with them.
Here’s where you can find lamps on your campus
You can find daylight lamps from October 2024 to January 2025 at the following campus locations:
- Alta: Winter Garden
- Harstad: Near the cafeteria (starting Friday, November 1)
- Narvik: Available for loan at the library
- Tromsø: Breiviklia – near the Student Counseling Office
