Without the sun there would be no life on the planet. So, it makes sense that our bodies use light in more ways than to see with our eyes. Scientists have discovered that many animals—including human beings—have specialized light-detecting molecules in unexpected places, outside of the eyes. These “extraocular photoreceptors” are found in the central nervous system, in the skin, and in internal organs. Recent research suggests that nonvisual pathways regulate mood, learning ability and even the sensitivity of conscious vision. It is good to realize how important natural light is for our bodies as there’s a widespread tendency in society to protect against the sun. We should not burn our skin but our bodies need the light.
Nonvisual photoreception: Parts of your body can “see” without your eyes
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