Light and our well-being - the importance of light in focus at JU LIVE

Johan Röklander started by explaining the basic properties of light and how different wavelengths can create different types of light. Depending on the mix of wavelengths, we can get a 'warm' or 'cold' light. Warm light tends to have reddish and yellowish tones, while cold light leans towards bluish tones. This difference in the temperature of light affects how we perceive our surroundings and how we feel.

The biological impact of light

Our biological clock, or circadian rhythm, responds directly to different types of light. Röklander described how cool daylight, rich in blue wavelengths, can stimulate the production of cortisol, a hormone that makes us alert and energetic. During the evening, as the sun sets and the light gets warmer, cortisol production decreases while melatonin, a sleep hormone, takes over. This helps us to settle down and prepare the body for sleep. Therefore, cooler light in the morning can promote wakefulness, while warmer light in the evening supports a good night's sleep.

Although light from digital screens contains blue wavelengths, which can affect sleep, Röklander emphasized that the brightness is usually too low to cause major problems. Instead, it's the content - such as movies and games - that tends to keep us awake. The stimulus provided by the activity itself plays a bigger role than the light of the screen. At the same time, a calm and dark environment before bedtime can help the body signal rest.

Creating good indoor light environments

Creating a good light environment is no easy task. Johan Röklander emphasized that good lighting design is not primarily about the quantity of light but about its quality and placement. To mimic natural daylight indoors, we can use different light points and light control systems. For example, illuminating the walls can make a room feel larger, while spot lighting on details creates a lively and cozy impression. He also recommended having the option of changing light levels throughout the day, so that light can be adapted to different activities and times.

The aesthetic aspects of light are also important, Röklander said, pointing out that beautifully designed lighting environments can positively affect our mood. Unfortunately, many Swedish homes have too few points of light, often just a ceiling light in the middle of the room. He therefore suggested that more light sources at different heights can provide a more pleasant atmosphere and better light in the home, which contributes to increased well-being.

Planning over technology

The lecture ended with an important insight: creating a good lighting environment is above all a matter of planning, not technology. It is about using light in a conscious way to support people's needs and health. Röklander emphasized the importance of demanding adaptable light also in workplaces, where flexible lighting can contribute to both productivity and well-being.

By understanding the impact of light on both body and mind, we can better create environments that support us in our daily lives by choosing light carefully, creating variety and planning for lighting that makes us more alert, more productive, and above all - satisfied.