Research has shown us that establishing healthy circadian rhythms (sleep being the most obvious) for a baby is a crucial part of establishing long term future mental and physical health. Click here for much more detail. However in this article we take a practical approach. What does the science suggest the best way for us to help this develop in our children? What are the modern day issues that are making this harder? We find out….

So, we have learnt that how this pattern is established – during the earliest days – can have lifelong consequences.

We also know that modern life – or modern light – is making this harder….

Click here for all the detail: why things are different these days, how it affects a baby’s body and why it is so powerful and long lasting. However, if you’re in a rush (aren’t we all) here are the key things you can actually do to help establish this in the healthiest way possible:

ONE: follow the natural cycle of light as closely as possible. You want bright light during the day. Dim light at dusk and full darkness at night. Simple – yet highly effective if not crucial when it comes to establishing a healthy rhythm.

Sounds simple – but there are easy pitfalls….

TWO: not all light is created equally and guess what – that pesky modern shortwave light (blue light) that is found in LED lighting, our cell phones, tablets and TVs is the most disruptive to melatonin and our sleep cycle. Now whilst i’m assuming your baby isnt scrolling through instagram before bed if you are using these devices and have bright lights on ahead of his/her bedtime it will have an affect. Keep these devices out of the way and dim lights ahead of bedtime – research has shown a tangible effect on melatonin (the sleep hormone) production in the body as a result.

THREE: the right place at the right time. Dim light is great between dusk and bedtime (much better than bright artificial light) however research has shown that dim light is to be avoided during the day and a night light or dim light during sleep is an absolute no go. Sleep should occur in darkness.

FOUR: time to invest in a good black out blind. Sleep is best when done in conditions that are as dark as possible. If you’re travelling (as we often do) a genius hack is these super easy stick on black out blinds (no we are not paid to endorse these) – click here to see on Amazon.

FIVE: be consistent. In the early days when a baby is establishing their rhythm (between 2-4 months old) consistency around light exposure is key.

Click here for much more detail.

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This article is for informational purposes only. This article is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice. The information on this website has been developed following years of personal research and from referenced and sourced medical research. Before making any changes we strongly recommend you consult a healthcare professional before you begin.

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