Red Light Therapy vs. the Sun: Do We Really Need Both?
“Red Light Therapy vs. the Sun: Do We Really Need Both?”
I get this question a lot:
“Why bother with red light therapy when I can just go outside and get sunshine for free?”
And honestly, I love that question—because it shows someone is thinking critically about their health and connecting back to nature.
Let’s talk about it.
☀️ Nature’s Light: Sunshine is Essential
God created the sun for a reason. It regulates our circadian rhythm, boosts vitamin D production, and even supports our mental and emotional health. That warm glow on your skin? It’s life-giving.
So yes—I will always encourage getting outside daily, grounding your feet in the soil, and letting that natural light soak into your skin. Fresh air, movement, and time in creation are all medicine.
But here’s the thing…
🔴 Red Light Therapy Isn’t Trying to Replace the Sun
Red light therapy (also known as photobiomodulation) is not a replacement—it’s a tool. A targeted one. It uses very specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light (typically around 630–850nm) to penetrate deep into your cells, where it stimulates the mitochondria—the powerhouse of the cell—to produce more energy (ATP). In simple terms?
It helps your body repair and function more efficiently—especially where there’s inflammation, injury, or chronic stress.
✨ When Red Light Becomes a Blessing
Here are just a few reasons I personally incorporate red light therapy into my family’s daily rhythm:
We’re not always able to get outside at sunrise or sunset. Life happens.
Cloudy days, long winters, or busy schedules can throw off our natural rhythms.
My nervous system needs consistent support—and red light calms, grounds, and soothes.
It’s safe to use with kids for mood, sleep, growing pains, and even oral support.
It’s been a powerful ally for gut healing, detoxification, and postpartum support.
I’ve used it during intense healing seasons where my energy was low, inflammation was high, and I couldn’t afford to fall deeper into burnout. I’ve also used it when brushing my toddler’s teeth felt like a battlefield—because it helped us both calm down and reconnect.
🌿 You Can Do Both
Sunshine will always be sacred in my world. But if you’re living in a season where your healing needs deeper support—red light therapy might just be the warm, healing hug your body’s been praying for.
And like with all things holistic, the goal isn’t perfection. It’s supporting your body where it’s at, while keeping your eyes on God’s natural design.
