How to influence mood with artificial light

Sally Augustin. a Ph.D.  gives us amazing insights on how we can affect mood with the appropriate lighting. 

Research in neuroscience shows that different colours and intensities of indoor light can create the perfect atmosphere for various situations. While bright lights can energize, there are times when darkness can be lovely, like enjoying a fragrant meadow under a moonlit sky or winding down after a long day. Most of our lives, though, are spent in light.

Natural light, or daylight, is almost like magic—it does wonders for our mood and well-being. It can lift our spirits, boost our creativity, and even help us think more clearly. Being in a good mood not only makes us feel better but also helps us solve problems and get along with others, which is great for us and everyone around us.

It's essential to let natural light into our spaces, but we should also manage glare, which can be harsh on the eyes. Sheer curtains are a great way to let in light while reducing glare. Choosing matte surfaces over glossy ones can also help.

When natural light isn't enough, especially at night, artificial light steps in. Modern lighting systems can mimic the natural changes in light throughout the day, helping us keep our body clocks in sync and reducing stress.

Indoor lighting comes in a range of colours. Light bulbs can be warm or cool, and it's best to choose ones that emit soft, white light. Avoid extreme colours like red, blue, or green, as they can distort colours and create an unpleasant atmosphere. Warm lights are perfect for cozy, relaxed settings, great for socialising or creative activities. Cooler lights are better for times when you need to be alert and focused, like doing work or studying. Dimming lights can also make a space feel more comfortable and inviting.

A good idea is to have a mix of warmer and cooler lights in a room, so you can adjust them based on your needs. For example, place warmer lights in table and floor lamps for a cozy feel and cooler lights in ceiling fixtures for brighter, more focused lighting. This setup mimics the natural world, where warmer light is found lower, like during sunrise and sunset, and cooler light is higher, like the midday sun.

Overall, both natural and artificial lighting play a crucial role in how we feel and think in our spaces. Designing with a variety of lighting options can enhance our well-being throughout the day.

Summary:

• Natural light has the potential to enhance people’s mood, creativity, and cognitive performance.
• Warm lighting can help create a cozy, social atmosphere, while cool lighting can help create an atmosphere for focus and concentration.
• Placing warmer lighting in tabletop and floor lamps and cooler light overhead reflects how light appears in nature.

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