Embracing Red Light Therapy: Nurturing Eye Health and Wellbeing at Midlife

Navigating midlife changes can bring unique challenges, especially for women experiencing menopause. Red light therapy, an emerging, non-invasive approach, offers promising benefits. Recently, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Angela Garner, an optometrist at Gates Eyewear in Newmarket, Auckland. Together, we explored how red light therapy can support women’s health at midlife, from improving sleep quality to enhancing eye health. Angela’s insights illuminated how this gentle therapy can address common menopausal concerns while nurturing overall well-being.

What is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy, also known as low-level light therapy or photobiomodulation, uses specific wavelengths of light (between 680 and 890 nanometers) to penetrate the skin without generating harmful heat. Angela explained it as a therapy that stimulates cellular activity, supporting energy production and healing. While this approach may sound modern, its history stretches back to ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, who recognized the benefits of light for healing.

Supporting Midlife Changes with Red Light Therapy:

Angela emphasized how women’s bodies undergo significant changes during menopause. She noted that healing rates can decline and inflammation often increases. By promoting cellular recovery and reducing inflammation, red light therapy becomes a valuable ally for midlife women looking to sustain their vitality and well-being.

Enhancing Eye Health at Midlife:

Many menopausal women experience dry eyes, impacting comfort and quality of life. Angela highlighted how using a warm wheat bag hot pack can improve the tear film by enhancing the glands’ oil production, leading to better lubrication. She recommends regularly using warm compresses or hot packs and consulting an optometrist to find the right eye drops for individual needs.

While low-level red light exposure, like Angela’s creative shoebox LED array, is safe, she advised that more powerful devices emitting infrared light must be used carefully. Angela emphasised, “It’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and use appropriate eye protection” to ensure safe use and optimal results.

Red Light Therapy and Sleep:

Another fascinating benefit of red light therapy is its potential to improve sleep. Angela explained,

“As the day’s blue light fades and sunset colours appear, our body naturally triggers a melatonin response, signalling it’s time to rest.”

However, these natural cues are often disrupted by constant exposure to artificial light. Red light therapy can help re-establish a healthy sleep rhythm, particularly beneficial for women experiencing menopause-related sleep disturbances.

Proactive Steps for Eye Health:

Angela shared practical tips for maintaining eye health, especially as women age:

  • Discuss Family Eye Health History: Open conversations about family history can help detect hereditary conditions like glaucoma.
  • Incorporate More Leafy Greens: A diet rich in antioxidants can protect your eye health.
  • Establish a Hot Compress Routine: Regular hot compresses can support healthy tear production.
  • Avoid Smoking and Vaping: These habits can exacerbate eye health issues and increase the risk of conditions like cataracts.
  • Seek Professional Help: If you experience eye-related discomfort or issues, consult an eye health professional for tailored advice.

Conclusion:

Red light therapy offers a range of benefits for women at midlife, from supporting better eye health to enhancing sleep quality. As Angela Garner shared, mindful and targeted use of this therapy can help alleviate some of the common challenges women face during menopause. If you consider incorporating red light therapy into your wellness routine, seek professional guidance to ensure safe and effective use.

Action Steps:

  • Discuss family eye health history with relatives.
  • Incorporate more green leafy vegetables into your diet.
  • Establish a regular hot compress routine for eye health maintenance.
  • Avoid smoking and vaping to protect eye health.
  • Seek professional help if experiencing any eye-related issues or discomfort.

For more details and to watch the complete discussion with Angela, click here to view the video on YouTube.

Sharon Tomkins

Sharon is a New Zealand qualified Health Coach and Personal Trainer, as well as an ICF Certified Coach and Accredited Coaching Supervisor. Sharon was awarded the 'Health & Wellness Coach of the Year' 2022, by The Health Coaches Australia & New Zealand Association.
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