The portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that is visible to the human eye is called visible light. Visible light is responsible for our sense of sight and contributes to our physical and mental wellness. The source of light (natural vs. artificial) and the color temperature of light (cool vs. warm) are two factors that can cause one to feel productive and motivated or lazy and stressed.
Mirjam Münch, a scientist based in Berlin, Germany, published a paper in 2015 contrasting the effects of artificial light and natural light on employees in the work environment. People who worked in indoor facilities with artificial light displayed sleepiness at the end of the evening, while those who worked in natural light were more alert and less sleepy. In other words, workers were more productive working under natural light than artificial light. Additionally, natural light is thought to be linked with increased production of cortisol. Cortisol, commonly referred to as the stress hormone, is released under stressful situations. It ultimately helps people remain less stressed at work. Natural light, therefore, helps improve productivity by increasing alertness and decreasing stress at work.
In the same way that natural light contributes to productivity, cooler light also improves work performance. Cooler light, in contrast to warmer light, increases alertness, improves mood, and lowers melatonin. By lowering melatonin, one’s sense of fatigue is also reduced. Additionally, blue light, an example of “cooler light,” facilitates brainstorming and a sense of positivity toward work. All in all, the color temperature of light can mediate how efficient and motivated one will be at work.
In a world in which productivity is equated to success, one way to promote efficiency and output is through controlling the environment in which one works. By moving one’s desk or workspace toward natural sunlight and turning off an artificial light bulb, or by switching from a yellow light bulb to a cooler, bluer light bulb, one can better control mood, alertness, and motivation.
Featured Image Source: Studying by University of Central Arkansas
