In the dark season, additional light is really good for us. We reveal how you can turn any home into a place of well-being with just a few simple steps and the right light. From dimmable ceiling spotlights to indirect light sources to the good old candle, these tips will fight the winter blues. Even when we don't get any daylight at all!

Now the time of lights begins! The Herrnhuter comes into the window, we hang up fairy lights and light candles. And it's no coincidence that we're so drawn to the radiance everywhere. After the autumn weeks, in which the sun usually only shines briefly and with too little power, we quickly suffer from a severe lack of light. The dark days take a toll on the mood and some people – and not just because of the pandemic – would prefer to retreat into hibernation like animals: the need for rest increases, drive and energy decrease. This can be explained scientifically: the brain does not release enough of the “happiness hormone” serotonin. Our body also does not produce enough vitamin D - which can, for example, lead to an increased susceptibility to infections.

So how about we at least let our home really shine? This can be done in just a few steps, we promise.

Light is not the same as light! Cold, blue light sharpens the senses, while reddish-warm light calms. Also good to know: Illuminated walls make the room appear larger, illuminated ceilings appear higher. What is new is the use of so-called “circadian light”, which imitates the natural course of the day. It is used, for example, in hospitals and schools and is said to have a positive effect on the natural light-wake rhythm.

Many indirect light sources are better than just one. The majority of the light should not come from the ceiling, but rather from many light sources distributed throughout the room. From a desk lamp, for example, whose light beam is directed towards the wall. Or a bright floor lamp for the reading corner, one with frosted glass between the houseplants... This creates exciting light and shadow zones!

If you are lucky enough to be able to plan an apartment or build a house, then make sure you have enough sockets. They are always a bit difficult to install later...

Bye, bye light bulbs: LEDs are now the better choice. In contrast to energy-saving lamps (which, by the way, only last a long time if they are not constantly switched on and off), they do not contain mercury and are also super energy-saving. Their cool, awakening colors make them rather unsuitable for the bedroom. An alternative are halogen lamps, which emit a point-shaped light. Motion detectors can also be a good idea: in the hallway, for example, or on the basement stairs. A great prevention for accidents!

As a rule of thumb: a mix of three different light sources is ideal for every room. Namely from backlighting, accent lighting and task lighting. One Backlight does not dazzle and distributes the light evenly. This can be, for example, a spotlight or ceiling floodlight. It's great if you can dim them! Accent lighting make furniture, works of art or plants a star. To do this, choose lamps that are pieces of jewelry in themselves and direct their light beams towards something that you want to highlight. No matter whether in the study, living room or kitchen: one Work lighting ensures concentration. Best in the form of a spotlight or floor lamp. Indirect light creates a cozy atmosphere, but it tires the eyes.

You can excel in terms of lighting in the living room. Instead of three, there should be four to eight light sources of different brightness in this special room, advises Monika Schäfer-Feil from the Good Light Association in Frankfurt. She has another tip: If you want it to look cozy, the light has to be visible, but not the light source.

Great tip for kitchen lighting: If it is dimmable, a work space can quickly become a cozy dinner setting. We recommend a pendant light for the dining table that illuminates the entire table. The right height is crucial, ideally 60 centimeters above the table top.

Industrial design is very popular right now, including when it comes to lamps: black painted models, those with an untreated surface or naked light bulbs in a retro look. Natural materials such as wood or paper are a nice alternative.

Fairy lights create a romantic atmosphere and definitely not just during Advent! They come in many different variations, from hearts to balls to plain ones. There's something for everyone!

The good old candle still reliably creates a romantic atmosphere. Whether in the form of tea lights, candlesticks, big-bellied candles in glasses, lanterns... the main thing is that you don't forget to blow them out before you leave the apartment!

Studies show that just one hour a day outdoors – as long as it is light – prevents any form of winter blues. But what if you don't have time for that yourself? The solution is a daylight lamp. Thanks to its enormous brightness, it provides us with the light that we so urgently need. Half an hour a day is enough; for example, you can simply put it on your desk next to you.