Blue light is the colour that primarily wakes up the brain.
Blue light, especially from sunlight, plays a crucial role in regulating our sleep-wake cycle, also known as our circadian rhythm. Here's why:
- Melanopsin Activation: Special cells in our eyes contain a photopigment called melanopsin. Melanopsin is most sensitive to blue light.
- Electrical Signals: When blue light hits these cells, melanopsin gets activated and sends electrical signals to the brain.
- Brain Response: The brain interprets these signals as a cue to be awake and alert. This process suppresses the production of melatonin, a hormone that promotes sleepiness.
Therefore, exposure to blue light in the morning helps to kickstart our day and make us feel more awake. While other colours may have subtle effects, blue light has the most significant impact on our brain's wakefulness response.
