Helder 2 sleep protocol — 20cm · 20 min · body mode

DeviceHelder 2 (AriHelder)
Distance20 cm — arm mount
ModeBody mode · full power
Duration20 min per session
TimingEvening · 1–2 hrs before sleep
Wavelengths631 nm red · 856 nm NIR
✓ OHSP Verified Verified output: 10.47W total — NIR 9,242 mW + Red 1,228 mW. Independent integrating sphere measurement →

How to set up the session

The sleep support protocol is an evening systemic session. The target is the back or abdomen — large areas that support full-body NIR stimulation. Timing is the active variable here: 1–2 hours before sleep.

1

Set up the arm mount

Attach the Helder 2 to the arm mount. Position the device face 20 cm from the back or abdomen. Lying down with the device aimed at the lower back or abdomen is the most practical position for an evening session.

2

Select body mode at full power

Set the Helder 2 to body mode, full power. Verified output: 10.47W total — NIR 856nm: 9,242 mW · Red 631nm: 1,228 mW. The NIR channel at 856nm provides the deeper systemic stimulation associated with improved sleep quality in PBM research.

3

Run the session

Hold the position for 20 minutes, 1–2 hours before sleep. Wear appropriate eye protection. Avoid bright LED exposure near the eyes in the final hour before bed. Repeat daily for best results.

Session guidance

Consistent evening sessions are the core of this protocol. Timing matters more than targeting for sleep support — 1–2 hours before sleep is the window that aligns with circadian rhythm research on red and NIR light exposure.

Morning sessions are appropriate for energy and performance goals — not sleep. If you are using the Helder 2 for multiple goals, run the sleep session in the evening and any musculoskeletal sessions at another time of day.

Safety & contraindications Do not use directly over the abdomen during pregnancy. Avoid bright LED exposure near the eyes in the hour before sleep — always wear eye protection during the session itself. If you are on photosensitising medications, consult a practitioner before use.

Frequently asked questions

1–2 hours before sleep is the standard timing. Consistent evening sessions matter more than any single session. Avoid using it immediately before bed — allow at least one hour between the session and sleep.
Back or abdomen at 20cm. These are large targets that support full-body NIR stimulation. The lower back and abdomen are the most practical positions for an evening lying-down session.
20 minutes in body mode, full power, daily in the evening. Consistency across evenings is the key variable for sleep outcomes.
For sleep support, evening timing is the active variable — it aligns red and NIR exposure with the body's circadian wind-down phase. Morning sessions are appropriate for energy and performance goals. Use both if you have multiple goals — just keep them at separate times of day.
Most users report changes within 1–2 weeks of consistent nightly sessions. Sleep quality improvements tend to be gradual — consistency over 2–4 weeks is the standard assessment window.
10.47W total optical power, independently verified by OHSP integrating sphere. NIR (856nm): 9,242 mW. Red (631nm): 1,228 mW. Independent third-party measurement — not a company-claimed figure.