Does blue light really disrupt our sleep?

Does blue light really disrupt our sleep?

A key debate in our modern era is whether the blue wavelengths emitted from our lights and devices disrupt our sleep.

For the first 10,000 generations of human existence, we never had to worry about exposure to blue light in the evenings. Wood fires and candles contained virtually no blue, and nights were dark. But in the last ten years, we have entered the era of ubiquitous blue-rich LEDs in our computer and mobile device screens, and in the lights in our homes and workplaces.

Some sleep scientists claim that removing evening blue light is unnecessary because it doesn’t affect sleep onset. Other experts tell you to protect your health by avoiding blue-containing light after sunset. Who is correct? It turns out, like many debates, it is all a matter of definition of what you mean by “blue”, and what you mean by “disrupted sleep”.

This week, guest writer Dr Martin Moore-Ede M.D., Ph.D., author of Light Doctor, explores the different perspectives and research-led insights on the effects of blue light on our sleep, and what we can do to ensure a healthy sleep routine.

Building inclusive workplaces: the power of DEIB and mental wellbeing

Building inclusive workplaces: the power of DEIB and mental wellbeing

In today’s evolving workplace, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) is more than a corporate buzzword - it’s a critical foundation for success. A truly inclusive workplace goes beyond diversity numbers; it cultivates a sense of belonging, where every employee feels seen, heard, and valued.

This week, we are excited to welcome back Pinky Ghadiali for her second article for Calmer, to explore why it is so important for workplaces to prioritise DEIB, how this links to improved mental wellbeing, and strategies for creating inclusive workplaces.

Lifting team performance: five agreements to elevate your team

Lifting team performance: five agreements to elevate your team

Every team aspires to operate at its best, but achieving high performance and productivity is often easier said than done.

Improving team performance fosters innovation, enhances collaboration, and strengthens communication, allowing diverse skill sets to come together for shared goals. What tools can you harness to achieve this?

This week, guest writer Dave Jones shares five agreements for boosting team performance, which can help to improve both individual wellbeing as well as build organisational resilience.

How to start a conversation about mental health

How to start a conversation about mental health

Today marks Time to Talk Day 2023, a day recognised by Mind and Rethink Mental Illness in support of ending the stigma that still surrounds mental health.

While we’ve come a long way in taking mental health issues seriously, sadly there is still a stigma attached to the term ‘mental health’. Whether that’s in the form of embarrassment, shame or denial, the reality is it can prevent individuals from either acknowledging their own mental health concerns, or talking about it openly with others.