Light has a significant impact on our physiological condition and wellbeing, coupled with advances in lighting technology, lighting professionals now are more powerful to create human-centred design. Then “human centric lighting”, “biophilic lighting” and “circadian lighting” become the terms and knowledge what have created substantial debate across the industry
As scientists continue to uncover information about the effects of biophilic design on human wellbeing, lighting design is taking center stage of the debate. Biophilia, literally translating to “love of nature,” is intrinsically linked to that most nurturing and sustaining element of nature, natural lighting. For humans, the sun’s rays have regulated the processes of the body for millennia, and we have adapted to be healthiest when living and working in relation to the sun’s daily cycles.
Architects, engineers, business and homeowners are now looking for new ways to incorporate this lighting into building design. Here are 4 reasons why biophilic lighting is better lighting.
Regulates Circadian Rhythm
The circadian rhythm does more that tell the body when to wake up and when to go to sleep. It also regulates the release of hormone that helps the body stay energetic and alert during the daytime and have a healthy, restful sleep at night. Unlike natural, biophilic lighting, artificial lighting disrupts the circadian rhythm, leading to problems with attention during the day and restlessness at night.
Reduces Stress, Depression, and Illness
The built environment influences stress levels and overall health. Lighting design in particular has been shown to relate directly to how a person feels by reducing stress, tiredness, feelings of being overwhelmed, and the desire to quit. Areas where sunlight penetrates a building have been directly and positively linked to health and greater workplace satisfaction.
Sharpens Focus
Discomfort and pain are known to cause the greatest distractions, so creating an environment that is comfortable and healthy. Artificial lights flicker intermittently which can cause headaches and repetitive eyestrain—painful distractions that sunlight does not create. Natural lighting gives building occupants greater contentment and pleasure, which helps sharpens concentration and aids their focus on tasks that need to be completed.
Facilitates Biophilic Elements of Design
Sunlight is the foundation of life, and as such it supports those elements of design that provide direct contact to the natural environment. Contact with plants, animals (with aviaries or green roofs), views of nature, and exposure to weather patterns all facilitate natural design and are closely linked to the existence of natural light in a space.
Sunlight is the one element that supports all the living aspects of biophilic design. With the advanced daylighting systems sold today, you can incorporate natural lighting into a wide-range of building types, including industrial, commercial, retail, and educational settings.
Source: http://www.ciralight.com/blog/4-reasons-why-biophilic-lighting-is-better-lighting
