My mom and I are very fortunate to have overhead fluorescent lighting in our sewing room. You really can't beat it for being able to see well.
However, I've come to the realization that if I spend a big chunk of time in under the lights in one sitting, I get to feeling a little depressed. Initially, I thought it was because I usually do my quilting toward the end of the day and so I am likely to be tired. However, this seems like more than just tiredness. In looking back, I realize that any time fluorescent lighting has been the only light source in a room, I feel that way. Now, if there is a window with sunshine in addition to the fluorescent lights, I'm good; if there is another type of light in the room too, well that helps. My mother is wondering if she's being similarly affected, although her feelings have been more subtle.
Have any of you experienced anything like this?
No I haven't had that problem, but I do know that you can get different types of fluorescent tubes, including one that replicates daylight. Maybe you could try that.
ReplyDeleteI have heard of this happening. indoor lighting does not take the place of actual outside light - you can get vitamin D deficiency if you do not get enough sunlight - this could in turn possibly lead to depression - people who live in the very northern parts of the country have less sunlight for a good part of the year and I have heard they use lighting that is suppose to be closer to what outside lighting is.
ReplyDeleteTake a break and go outside for a little bit :)
Karen
http://karensquilting.com/blog/
I haven't really noticed that in my sewing room, which has overhead fluorescent lighting and some natural light from a couple small basement windows. Maybe that little bit of natural light does help. I actually have a light box that I sit next to for a bit each day (not in my sewing room) during the long, dark winter months. I got it here: http://www.alaskanorthernlights.com/ It really does help.
ReplyDeleteInteresting comments so far. I wonder if a different type of fluorescent would make the difference as Marg suggested.
ReplyDeleteI know what Karen is saying about Vitamin D, and P is saying about needing light, especially in winter. Hmmm. I really didn't think either of those aspects could be a problem, because I live in southern Nevada where the sun shines just about all the time, even in winter, and the sunlight is about 30% more intense than places that actually have moisture in the air. Our humidity is running below 10% right now. That is not a typo. I do go out for a bit everyday.
I'm going to ponder everybody's comments. Thanks ladies.
Interesting post and comments. I won't be able to contribute because I only have a small fluorescent light for my cutting area.
ReplyDeleteThanks for your comment about my dots quilt... I got quite a chuckle when I read you thought me crazy! :) I love it.
Have a good weekend.
That's good info to keep in mind, I keep the blinds closed against the summer heat.
ReplyDeleteInteresting post. I have no idea. The only thing I know is that different types are available. I usually do cutting and sewing in daylight. I'm lucky to have many windows in the room - using the dining-room - where it's better space too.
ReplyDelete10% humidity! Wow! Here it's 80-85%!
Michelle, I have given you a Versatile Blogger Award! Check it out here: http://thewayisewit.blogspot.com/2010/08/all-about-versatility.html
ReplyDeleteI've just ripped fluro lighting out of my kitchen. Not because I worry about what it's doing to me but because it looked ugly. However my electrician thought I was mad.
ReplyDeleteI was always depressed in my kitchen ..but I dont think that had anything to do with the lighting.