COGNITIVE WINDOW 3: Procognitive and biodynamic lighting
Both procognitive and biodynamic lighting are inspired by natural light in nature and aim to improve our health, performance and well-being. There is, however, a difference between them.
Procognitive lighting – during the day
- Effect: The main goal of procognitive lighting is to support circadian rhythms and cognitive functions such as concentration, memory and reaction speed. It also boosts overall vitality and mood.
- Spectral composition: The light shows a continuous and balanced spectrum that mimics sunlight on a clear day and stimulates the body to activity.
- Distribution: preferably indirect, by reflection from the ceiling or direct from large areas to minimise glare and mimic the natural distribution of light from the sky.
- Use: in interiors where daily mental or physical activity takes place, e.g., offices, schools, laboratories, maids, surgeries, etc.
Biodynamic lighting – for 24 hours
- Effect: Biodynamic lighting mimics the natural changes in light throughout the 24-hour period, thus supporting the maintenance of a healthy circadian rhythm. It improves overall health, increases vitality. In day mode, it includes full-spectrum procognitive lighting.
- Spectral power distribution and intensity: Light changes its intensity and colour, the so-called correlated colour temperature, over time. Standard switches or a smart indoor control system will provide illumination with LED lighting suitable for daytime (stimulating procognitive full-spectrum light mimicking the sun on a clear day), evening (relaxing dim warm white light mimicking the sun at sunset) and night time (orientation orange lighting mimicking a fire to provide illumination for basic orientation, but will not switch the organism into activity mode).
- Distribution: day mode preferably indirectly reflected from the ceiling, evening mode at eye level, night mode low below eye level / near the ground.
- Use: Suitable for all interiors occupied by people on a 24-hour basis, such as homes, hospitals, retirement homes, etc.
Differences
| Characteristics | Procognitive lighting | Biodynamic lighting |
|---|---|---|
| Objective | Stimulation of circadian rhythms during the day | Support to circadian rhythms during the day, evening and night |
| Spectral power distribution | Balanced full-spectrum mimicking the light of the sun on a clear day | Time-varying spectrum, intensity and angle of distribution |
| Use | daily activity rooms | All areas where people spend extended periods of time |
When to choose which?
- Procognitive lighting: If you need to increase your productivity, improve concentration or learn better.
- Biodynamic lighting: If you want to improve your health, sleep, mood and overall well-being.
It is important to remember that neither procognitive nor biodynamic lighting can replace sufficient exercise, a healthy diet and adequate rest. But they are a powerful tool for improving our vitality, health and well-being.
