White light and light enriched with a blue spectral component can increase brain activity associated with attention, cognition and alertness.
This is due to ipRGC cells, which have unique temporal response properties suited to perceiving transient changes in light and thus regulating the circadian function. Studies on brain function have found that bright white light activates areas of the brain involved in visual processing, attention and performance. This demonstrates that the intensity, spectral composition and timing of light exposure has a significant impact on cognitive abilities and overall functioning of the body.
The results of the study support the importance of the concept of biodynamic lighting, which adapts lighting conditions to the physiological needs of humans during the day, evening and night.
According to the authors, healthy lighting should take four key factors into account: the timing and length of light exposure, the intensity and spectral composition of the light and its location in the space. The most important role is played by the natural alternation of day and night, which harmonises circadian rhythms through the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). Lighting applied in this way for different times of the day positively influences the visual and non-visual (NIF) effects of artificial light.
