The truth about blue light blockers, why strict elimination diets aren't the only answer, and the importance of mitigating our exposure to artificial light with Matt Maruca of Ra Optics
Dec 6, 2023
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Matt Maruca of Ra Optics shares how he found true healing beyond elimination diets, exploring the importance of regulating artificial blue light exposure, adopting 'the light diet', and reconnecting to nature for overall health and wellness.
Diets are not the sole determinants of well-being; mindset and spiritual practices are equally significant.
Optimizing health involves considering light exposure, circadian rhythms, and managing stress levels.
Creating a balanced daily routine includes waking up early, exposure to natural light, and having a lighter dinner.
Working in focused blocks followed by short breaks enhances productivity and prevents burnout.
The light diet aligns eating patterns with natural light exposure for better sleep, digestion, and energy levels.
Deep dives
The Importance of Balancing Multiple Capitals in Life
In order to live a fulfilling and balanced life, it's important to consider and invest in various areas or capitals, such as spiritual, health, relational, financial, and educational. These different areas require attention and balance in order to thrive and find true happiness.
The Limitations of Relying Solely on Diets
While diets can play a role in improving health, they are not the single factor that determines overall well-being. It's important to recognize that diets should be seen as a piece of the puzzle, and that there are other factors, such as mindset and spiritual practices, that can also greatly influence our health and happiness.
The Role of Light and Mitochondrial Optimization
Understanding the impact of light on our bodies is a crucial aspect of optimizing our health and well-being. Factors such as exposure to natural light, managing artificial light, and aligning our daily routines with circadian rhythms can have significant effects on our energy levels, sleep quality, and overall vitality.
Balancing Capacities Throughout the Day
Creating a balanced daily routine involves considering the influence of light and other factors on our bodies. Starting the day with exposure to natural light, minimizing exposure to artificial light before bedtime, and managing stress levels are all essential components of a holistic approach to health and wellness.
Importance of Morning Routine and Circadian Rhythm
Setting a strong foundation for the day is crucial. Waking up early, preferably before sunrise, allows for dedicated time for self-care activities like meditation or prayer. This helps to set a positive mindset and prepare for the day ahead. Additionally, eating a lighter dinner and having the main meal during midday optimizes digestion and energy levels. Aligning the body's natural rhythm with exposure to morning sunlight is also important for regulating hormones and neurotransmitters, improving sleep quality, and setting the circadian rhythm.
Balancing Work and Breaks throughout the Day
In terms of productivity, it is useful to work in focused blocks for about an hour, followed by a short break. This approach maximizes cognitive performance and prevents burnout. Taking a 5-10 minute break every hour allows for physical movement, fresh air, and mental rejuvenation. Working continuously for long periods can lead to a decline in cognitive function. Creating a balanced work routine and incorporating regular breaks can significantly enhance productivity and overall well-being.
Optimizing Health through Light Diet and Mindful Eating
The light diet entails aligning daily eating patterns with the body's natural light exposure. Consuming a heavier meal during midday and opting for lighter, easily digestible foods in the evening promotes better sleep, improved digestion, and increased energy levels. Raw foods, especially salads, are best consumed earlier in the day, while cooked vegetables and legumes can be part of an evening meal. Mindful eating, coupled with exposure to natural daylight, helps regulate appetite and promote overall well-being.
The limited effectiveness of clear blue light blocking glasses
Clear blue light blocking glasses, despite their popularity, have been found to provide little to no protection against the harmful wavelengths emitted by screens. These glasses may provide some blocking effect up to 420 nanometers, but beyond that range, they offer minimal protection. The lenses fail to block the blue light peak emitted by modern LED screens, which can negatively impact retinal health, hormonal balance, and sleep patterns. Clear lenses are considered to be a gimmick and are not recommended for those seeking effective blue light protection.
The importance of addressing psycho-emotional disturbances in healing
Personal healing journey goes beyond just focusing on physical ailments and external factors. It is important to address and work through psycho-emotional disturbances and traumas that can affect overall well-being. Chronic stress, unconscious patterns, and trauma can disrupt the body's energy flow, impacting physiological processes like digestion and circadian rhythms. Practices like meditation and energy work can help identify and release stored trauma, allowing for a sense of wholeness and improved health. By focusing on self-awareness and finding inner balance, individuals can experience healing on multiple levels.
In this episode, Matt Maruca of Ra Optics shares how he found true healing beyond elimination diets, supplements, and strict protocols. Tune in to hear how Matt pursues health and wellness outside of food alone, by regulating his exposure to artificial blue light, reconnecting to nature, and adopting "the light diet."
Thank you to today's sponsors: Ra Optics blue light blocking eyewear Use the code: HOMEGROWN for 10% off your order at https://raoptics.com/
Sun and Moo tallow tallow-based skincare. Use the code: HOMEGROWN for 10% off your order at https://sunandmoo.com/
Find Ra Optics on Instagram HERE. Shop Ra Optics eyewear HERE.
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