Like any other environmental factor, such as layout and colour scheme, lighting can significantly impact our moods. As such, lighting should never be overlooked when designing your work and sleep environments.
In this article, we will explore how lighting affects your mood.
Light and the Human Body
All light sources, whether natural or artificial, produce lightwaves that your body reacts to.
This reaction involves the circadian system: during the day, light exposure signals to your biological clock to stay alert and energised; when the sun sets, your biological clock promotes melatonin production, which helps you sleep.
For example, research have found that exposure to daylight helped individuals fall asleep faster at night and feel more energised during the day. Other artificial light sources in your home can similarly influence your body to perform its vital functions.
As such, light can impact your body’s processes and functionality, influencing your mood throughout the day.
Natural Light as a Mood Booster
Sunlight has natural healing powers and can impact your physical and mental health. This is because natural light boosts the production of serotonin (otherwise known as the “happy chemical”). Hence, sunlight can help you feel more energetic and motivated, improving your mood and well-being. Conversely, limited access to sunlight may cause fatigue, leading to poorer work or study performance.
Bright Light and Emotionality
By adjusting the brightness of your artificial lights, you can influence your well-being: as studies have found that human emotions are felt more intensely under bright light; the perception of light (and thus heat) triggers the hot emotional system, thus heightening your feelings. Hence, you can regulate your mood by turning up or down the light.
Ambient Light to Calm You Down
Why is it that spas often use dim lights?
Dimmed lighting contributes to a cosy atmosphere that helps you calm down, relieve stress, and unwind—perfect for a comfortable spa that encourages deep relaxation.
Relaxation is also achieved with colours and tones. For example, yellow and warm lights resemble serene candlelight and help reduce negative emotions and anxiety.
Low Light Levels for Intimacy and Comfort
Consider how high-end restaurants set the mood for a romantic dinner: they often have dim, warm lights positioned low. You can recreate this atmosphere at home with desk lamps and dimmable lights, creating a comfortable, intimate, and safe atmosphere.
Colour Temperature to Set the Right Mood
Colour temperature refers to the warmness or coolness of light.
A lower colour temperature is suitable for the late afternoon or evening as it creates a cosy, calm, inviting space conducive to rest. It can also encourage melatonin production, thus helping you relax.
Conversely, a higher colour temperature triggers the release of serotonin, causing you to feel more energised and alert.
Conclusion
Lighting affects your mood in numerous ways. By adjusting the lights, you can alter your energy and relaxation levels, thus influencing your performance of daily activities.
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