November 12th, millions around the world celebrated Diwali, the Hindu festival of light. It’s a beautiful reminder of the power of light in times of darkness—a theme that is particularly resonant as we move into the colder months.
In many parts of the world, winter brings early sunsets and long, dark evenings. But instead of dreading the darkness, why not use this time to create light in your home and your life?
In my country, as the days grow shorter, we often find ourselves thinking about bedtime as early as 4 p.m. when the darkness falls. But rather than simply enduring these early evenings, we can choose to embrace the coziness they bring. The key is to bring light into your living spaces—especially when the natural light seems in short supply.
In Denmark, where winter can feel endless and dark, we take light very seriously. The interior of homes here is intentionally designed for the darker months: light, minimalistic furniture, soft, low-wattage lighting, and light-colored walls and curtains all contribute to a brighter atmosphere indoors.
And at the heart of it all is the Scandinavian concept of ‘hygge’—a feeling of comfort and coziness that revolves around creating a warm, inviting environment. For more on this, read about how to embrace hygge here.
But the benefits of light extend beyond simply making our homes look brighter—it has a profound impact on our well-being. Here’s why:
The Benefits of Light:
- Brings people together: There’s something inherently magnetic about light. We naturally gather around it—just like moths to a flame! Whether it’s a dinner table or a cozy living room, light draws us together.
- Boosts mood: Light triggers positive emotions and helps uplift our spirits. It encourages happiness and a sense of well-being, which is essential during the colder, darker months.
- Creates ambiance: Light helps set the right atmosphere, transforming an otherwise dull space into a warm, welcoming environment.
- Mental resilience: In the depths of winter, light serves as a tool for mental survival. It helps combat the seasonal sadness and prevents us from sinking into gloom.
How to Bring More Light into Your Home
Here are some simple ways to incorporate more light into your space this winter:
1. Use Ambient Lighting: Fairy lights, candles, and other soft lighting sources can make a world of difference. Place small lights in dark corners, on shelves, or around windows to brighten up the room. For a natural touch, opt for soy wax candles scented with essential oils to add both warmth and fragrance to your home.
2. Light Up the Outdoors: Don’t forget the exterior of your home. Installing small, low-energy lights outside not only makes your entrance more inviting but also brightens up the surrounding space. Solar-powered lights are a sustainable option that can add a cozy glow without increasing your energy bills
3. Choose Lighter Colors: It doesn’t take much to brighten up a room. A simple white or beige blanket on a chair, light-colored throw pillows, or a soft tablecloth can make a big difference. These light tones reflect the available light, creating a brighter, airier feel indoors.
4. Opt for Lighter Flooring: Consider bright rugs or mats in areas where your floors are dark. Even a few light-colored throws can help make the space feel more expansive and welcoming.
5. Embrace Minimalist Walls: Instead of filling every wall with pictures and heavy décor, try leaving some walls bare. This simple approach can make a room feel more spacious and allow the light to reflect more freely. Display only what truly matters to you—pieces that inspire or bring you joy.
6. Clear the Clutter: Dust can block out any available natural light, so keep your windows clean. Additionally, the less “stuff” you have around, the less there is to collect dust. Decluttering not only creates a cleaner home but also contributes to a lighter, more peaceful atmosphere.
7. Mind Your Lighting Setup: To create the perfect atmosphere, aim your lights at the ceiling or walls—not directly at yourself or the furniture. Low-wattage light bulbs are ideal for areas where you want to relax, such as a cozy reading nook or the dinner table. And don’t underestimate the power of real candles—there’s nothing like the warm, flickering glow to brighten a dark winter night.
8. Use Music to Enhance the Mood: Light isn't only about what we see; it's about what we hear, too. Music can profoundly affect the atmosphere of your home. Classical music, calming instrumental pieces, or even your favorite upbeat tunes can lift spirits and energize the room. Play a little background music while you cook, dine, or relax with family—it adds another layer of warmth to your home.
When I was raising my children, we often put on soft music during dinner time. Sometimes we sat in silence, savoring the food and the moment. Other times, we’d talk about our day while the music played in the background. And on a whim, we’d turn it up and dance around the living room. It’s a simple but effective way to brighten any evening.
Final Thoughts
The winter months may bring longer nights, but they also provide an opportunity to create warmth, connection, and light within our homes. By being intentional about how we bring light into our environments—whether through lighting, color choices, or even sound—we can transform the darker months into a time of comfort and joy. So, as we embrace the changing seasons, let’s take a page from the Diwali celebration: Create light in the dark, and let it illuminate not only your home but your heart.
Embrace the light, embrace the season.
Mette Theilmann
Fonder of HerEdge Cote d’Azur Club
Have a hyggelig Christmas, everyone!
Mette Theilmann Founder of HerEdge Cote d’Azur Club
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