Skip to main content

Morning Light Exposure

Meaning

Morning light exposure is the practice of intentionally exposing the eyes to natural daylight, particularly within the first hour of waking, as a powerful non-pharmacological intervention for regulating the body’s circadian rhythm. This exposure is critical for setting the master biological clock, the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) in the hypothalamus, which governs the timing of numerous physiological processes. Optimizing morning light intake is essential for synchronizing the sleep-wake cycle, mood regulation, and the diurnal release of key hormones like cortisol and melatonin. This simple practice has profound effects on overall endocrine health and vitality.