Skylights and Wellbeing: Boosting Mental Health in New Zealand Homes

Kia ora, fellow Kiwis! We all know our stunning country is 100% pure New Zealand, but let’s face it – our weather can sometimes be 100% unpredictable. From Wellington’s wind-swept days to Queenstown’s moody skies, we’ve seen it all. But what if we told you there’s a way to bring a slice of that gorgeous Aotearoa sunshine into your home, rain or shine? Enter: skylights, your ticket to brighter days and a sunnier disposition!

The Sunshine Vitamin: More Than Just a Bright Idea

We’ve long known that sunshine is nature’s mood-booster, but did you know it’s backed by science? Here’s the lowdown:

1. Vitamin D Dynamo: Sunlight helps our bodies produce Vitamin D, crucial for bone health and immune function. With our indoor lifestyles (and vigilant sun protection), many Kiwis are low on this vital nutrient.
2. Serotonin Surge: Exposure to natural light increases serotonin, our body’s natural feel-good chemical. It’s like a free, all-natural happy pill!
3. Melatonin Magic: Regular exposure to daylight helps regulate our sleep-wake cycle, leading to better sleep. And we all know a good night’s kip can make all the difference.

The Kiwi Conundrum: When Outdoors Isn’t an Option

Let’s be honest, between Southland’s sideways rain and Auckland’s impromptu showers, getting our daily dose of sunshine isn’t always as easy as a stroll on the beach. That’s where skylights come in, bringing the outdoors in, no gumboots required!

Real Talk from Real Kiwis

Don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what some fellow New Zealanders have to say:

“After installing a skylight in our Dunedin home, I’ve noticed a real difference in my mood, especially during those long winter months.” – Sarah

“As a shift worker in Wellington, I often missed out on daylight. The skylight in my bedroom has been a game-changer for my sleep patterns.” – Tama

Skylights: A Bright Solution for Every Room

Wondering how to incorporate skylights into your home for maximum mental health benefits? Here are some ideas:

1. Kitchen Brilliance: A skylight over your kitchen bench can make meal prep a joy, even on the gloomiest Invercargill day.
2. Bathroom Bliss: Transform your morning routine with natural light – it’s like having your own personal sunrise, even in the depths of a Taupo winter.
3. Living Room Luxe: Create a naturally lit reading nook that’s perfect for curling up with a good book, whether you’re in a cozy Christchurch cottage or a sleek Auckland apartment.
4. Home Office Harmony: Boost productivity and reduce eye strain with overhead natural light – ideal for those working from home in dimly lit Whangarei weatherboard houses.

But What About the Weather?

Now, we know what you’re thinking. “Sounds great, but what about when it’s pouring down in Piha or freezing in Feilding?” Fear not! Modern skylights are built to handle whatever Tangaroa throws at them.

• Double Glazing: Keeps the warmth in during those chilly Otago nights.
• UV Protection: Enjoy the light without the harmful rays – essential for sunny Nelson rooftops.
• Rain Sensors: Some models even close automatically at the first drop of rain – perfect for unpredictable Wellington weather!

The Mental Health Payoff: More Than Just Light

Incorporating skylights into your home isn’t just about brightening up a room. It’s an investment in your wellbeing. Here’s how:

1. SAD No More: Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects many Kiwis, especially in southern regions. Skylights can provide a much-needed light boost.
2. Productivity Plus: Natural light has been shown to improve focus and productivity – great news for the many of us now working from home.
3. Nature Connection: In our busy lives, skylights offer a constant connection to the outside world, reminding us of the beautiful country we live in.
4. Space Perception: Rooms feel larger and more open with skylights, combating that cooped-up feeling during long lockdowns or dreary days.

DIY Mental Health Boost: Making the Most of Your Skylight

Once you’ve got your skylight installed, here are some tips to  its mental health benefits:

1. Morning Meditation: Start your day with a few minutes of mindfulness under your skylight – it’s like a personal sunrise session.
2. Skylight Stretches: Create a small yoga or stretching area bathed in natural light. It’s your own slice of Kiwi zen!
3. Plant Paradise: Use the natural light to grow indoor plants. It’s like bringing a bit of the Botanic Gardens into your home.
4. Chromotherapy Corner: On grey days, use the space under your skylight with coloured cushions or artwork for a mood-boosting colour therapy session.

A Brighter Future for Kiwi Homes

As we continue to spend more time indoors, creating spaces that support our mental wellbeing is crucial. Skylights offer a simple yet effective way to flood our homes with natural light, connecting us to the outdoors even when we can’t be there in person.

So, whether you’re in a bustling Wellington apartment or a quiet Hokitika hideaway, consider letting a little more of Aotearoa’s beautiful light into your life. Your mind (and your power bill) will thank you!

Remember, while skylights can be a great boost to mental health, they’re not a substitute for professional help. If you’re struggling, reach out to your GP or contact the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand for support.

Here’s to brighter days ahead, New Zealand!