Today is a special day in the Northern Hemisphere: The Winter Solstice. This annual milestone brings with it a unique blend of astronomical wonder and cultural significance. The Winter Solstice also brings significant changes to biological life on Earth. For example:

• Animals adapt by migrating, hibernating, or altering their behavior and physiology. Think of a bear hibernating in a cave.
• Plants enter a period of dormancy, responding to the light and temperature changes. Many plants lose their leaves and their energy descends into the roots, rather than the branches.

Now, how does the Solstice impact cultural life on Earth?

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Welcome to Ra Optics, where science meets style in the world of eyewear.

 

The result?

A fusion of function and fashion.

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In a recent study (the largest ever) on the impact of artificial light exposure on mental health, scientists found the most comprehensive evidence to date on the damaging effects of artificial (especially blue) at various times of the day.

Clearly…Ra Optics’ mission has never been more relevant.

Here is what you need to know about the latest Science of Light: 

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Human evolution is intricately linked to the rhythms of the natural world. For millennia, our ancestors lived under the full-spectrum glow of the sun, basking in its balanced wavelengths. In 1880, Thomas Edison famously filed for a patent for the incandescent light bulb, which marked a transformative moment in human history. Suddenly, individuals could expose themselves to artificial (blue) light after sunset, disrupting the age-old rhythm dictated by the Earth's natural light cycle.

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In today's fast-paced, tech-driven world, we're constantly surrounded by screens and artificial lights. Although these advancements have revolutionized our daily lives, they've also introduced a new set of challenges for our health that our species has never faced. One of the most significant of these challenges is the exposure to blue light. So… what exactly is blue light?

And why is it a concern?

Let's dive deep into the science and discover what we can do to protect ourselves from the damaging blue light that is rampant in our modern environments.

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Looking for the perfect gift that not only elevates style but also aligns with the energy you want to embrace in life? We got you! In this Holiday Gift Guide, we are introducing a unique approach to choosing your ideal frame: by Archetype.

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In the realm of pushing boundaries and reaching unparalleled peaks of performance, the symbiotic relationship between physical excellence and holistic well-being is undeniable. Light hygiene is an underrated aspect of optimal health that is steadily becoming a game-changer for many high-performers, including top-tier athletes, groundbreaking biohackers, and esteemed fitness professionals. The question echoes: why do the best of the best trust Ra Optics?

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Dr. Tom McCoy is more than a Medical Director and Performance Specialist; he is a guiding light in the realm of healthcare. His dedication to a lifestyle-first intervention, his commitment to holistic well-being, and his passion for educating and empowering others make him an inspiring figure for all to emulate. Let us all take a step towards a healthier and happier life by following in the footsteps of this extraordinary health hero who wears red lenses instead of a red cape, Dr. Tom McCoy.

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In today's world, our screen devices have become an essential part of our daily routine. We use them to work, communicate, and entertain ourselves. However, the constant exposure to blue light emitted from these screens is a significant concern for our health. Blue light can be beneficial during the day, as it helps us stay alert and awake. However, exposure to blue light at night significantly harms our sleep quality and overall health.

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Which lenses are the best at blocking blue light? How can you tell how much they block? Do clear lenses help you get better sleep? Read which blue light glass lenses really work and when to wear them.

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Sleep is one of the most critical factors that contribute to a healthy lifestyle. Sleep disturbances have been linked to multiple modern and chronic health problems, such as obesity, diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that you get adequate and high-quality sleep every night. While there are various sleep aids on the market, one does more for your health than the other. We are convinced that Ra Optics sunset lenses (priced at $164 at the time of writing) are a better investment for improving your sleep than buying a $4,000 mattress. Read the full article for more context! 

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The production of melatonin is regulated by a part of the brain called the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). The SCN receives signals from the eyes about the presence or absence of light and uses this information to regulate the production of melatonin by the pineal gland. Meaning the presence of light at night will inhibit the production of melatonin as the light entering the eyes will give the body the signal it is daytime — which is generally not a time to rest and repair.

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