Winter Light

Winter Light

Winter is the time of year when lighting is quite subdued. It’s a time for introspection. Animals hibernate, and truly to find balance, it is a time of hibernation for ourselves as well. After the Christmas and holiday rush, we would serve ourselves well to engage in activities and restful experiences to regenerate. Curling up in front of the fireplace for heart-warming chats with a cup of tea or soup and a good book is a sure way to nurturing the soul and giving our body the rest and feeling of comfort it needs.

Despite the need for a quiet time through the winter though, sombre moods can sometimes be detrimental to our health – indicating a lack of energy. Lighting, therefore, is still important in our homes and around our activities or daily chores. With not enough natural light, we are familiar with the SAD condition – seasonal affective disorder. Yes – our endocrine and energy systems require light to function optimally. And whilst a healthy dose of vitamin D capsules might support the body through the darkened days – the brilliance of sunlight is imperative for our overall sense of wellbeing. Natural sunlight is an important element in creating balance and energy in our homes; with a direct correlation to the lack of fullness of energy in our physical bodies and emotional sense of wellbeing too!

How energized are you feeling right now through the winter?

Do you have enough natural sunlight in all corners and rooms of your home? Are your passages and entrances well lit? Is your office space or den bright enough for you to work?

Advancements in light technology have brought us the full-spectrum white light bulb, which has the ability to reflect all the colours of the spectrum. The light emitted from these bulbs is emotionally enhancing and mood-elevating. You may need to add additional lamps in a room in addition to the natural light. Lights can be sourced at various levels. Entrances both inside and out the need to be well lit to allow good energy to flow in and around them. Fluorescent lights are not ideal for homes with the glare, flickering and low grade buzzing. Lighting in rooms where you rest for example should be soft suffused light, with lamps placed beside beds and not directly overhead.

Check all the rooms of your house to ensure they are well lit.

Make a list of the types of light fittings and lampstands or standard lamps that will enhance the quality of light in your home for the darkened days of winter. You will feel much better for it physically, emotionally and mentally, and for the overall sense of wellbeing throughout your home.