The Role of Lighting in our Emotional Wellbeing

Lighting has a crucial role to play in our quest for sustainable living and improved quality of life. Its importance to us extends beyond its basic function of allowing us to see – light can also shape our emotions, regulate our body’s rhythms and influence our overall wellbeing.  

The challenges of climate change and increasing mental health concerns are now omnipresent, but there is one innovative approach to lighting that can help both: Human-Centric Lighting (HCL).

An overview of human-centric lighting

HCL represents a shift in how we approach artificial lighting. Unlike traditional lighting systems that prioritise visibility and energy efficiency, HCL places human wellbeing at the forefront of lighting design. It’s an innovative lighting concept that aims to support the human circadian rhythm, enhance comfort and improve emotional and physical wellbeing. The core principles of HCL include:

• Mimicking natural light: HCL systems replicate the dynamic changes of natural daylight throughout the day.

• Circadian rhythm support: Aligning artificial light with the body’s natural clock means HCL promotes better sleep-wake cycles.

• Customisation: Personalised lighting experiences can be tailored to individual needs and preferences.

• Holistic approach: HCL is about more than the visual effects of light. It has non-visual biological and emotional impacts too.

As our world becomes increasingly urbanised, we can get disconnected fr om natural light cycles. So, how can smart, sustainable lighting brighten not just our spaces, but our lives too?

The science of light and emotions

It’s important to note that light sensitivity and its emotional impacts can vary among individuals due to factors such as age, genetics and pre-existing health conditions. This emphasises the need for personalised lighting solutions in human-centric design.

• The effect of light on our brain and body: Light exposure directly boosts the production of neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly serotonin (associated with mood regulation) and dopamine (linked to pleasure and reward). Exposure to bright light suppresses melatonin production, promoting alertness.

• Light spectrums and cognitive function: Different light spectrums can have varying effects on cognitive function and mood. Blue-enriched light is associated with increased alertness, improved cognitive performance and elevated mood. Warm light is often linked to relaxation and comfort. Full-spectrum light, which mimics natural daylight, is associated with improved mood and vitality.

• Light and mental health: Research has established strong links between light exposure and mental health, particularly Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and anxiety, wh ere proper lighting can create environments that reduce stress and anxiety levels. Studies have shown that bright light therapy can be as effective as antidepressant medication for some types of depression.

The methods behind HCL systems

It might sound like HCL is a magic wand that will solve all our issues. However, its implementation requires careful planning. It’s important to consider light distribution and the proper placement of luminaires to ensure even spread and minimise glare.  

There needs to be good integration with natural light whereby systems are designed that complement natural light rather than compete with it.  

It also needs to have customisable options to allow for individual control while maintaining overall benefits. Helping users understand and make the most of HCL features will undoubtedly let them get the most from it.

Emotional and health and wellbeing benefits of HCL

When HCL is attuned to our patterns and biological needs, it can have a positive impact on various areas of our emotional needs.  

• Improved sleep quality: A consistent lighting schedule helps reinforce the body’s natural circadian rhythm, leading to more regular sleep patterns.

• Enhanced productivity: Improved cognitive function and mood in well-lit environments can lead to increased productivity (around 4.5%) as well as a reduction in errors and accidents in the workplace (around 2%).  

• Reduced absenteeism: By promoting better overall health and wellbeing, HCL may contribute to reduced absenteeism in workplaces, leading to more stable and efficient operations.

• Greater focus and productivity: The right lighting can significantly impact cognitive function and, consequently, our emotional state. Cool, bright light during work hours can enhance alertness and cognitive performance.

Sustainability aspects of HCL

As well as benefitting individual wellbeing, HCL also contributes significantly to broader sustainability goals. If we consider both the direct and indirect impacts of lighting systems, HCL emerges as a holistic solution for creating more sustainable built environments.

Energy efficiency:

• LED technology: HCL systems primarily use LED technology, which is inherently more energy-efficient than traditional lighting sources.

• Smart controls: Incorporating HCL systems into smart controls means the light levels can be adjusted based on occupancy, time of day and available natural light. This dynamic control can lead to significant energy savings.

• Longevity: LED lights used in HCL systems have much longer lifespans than traditional bulbs, reducing the frequency of replacements and associated waste.

Future potential

It's no longer enough to consider light merely as a utility; we must recognise it as a powerful tool for enhancing human experience and supporting sustainable practices. This shift demands collaboration across disciplines - from lighting designers and architects to psychologists and sustainability experts.