Feeling Calm and Happy at Home: The Art of Creating Islands of Light

From ancient times, homes have been considered sacred sanctuaries—places where the outside world fades away, allowing us to find peace and calm. Today, more than ever, people seek their homes as havens of disconnection, tranquility, and happiness. But how can we ensure that our house is not just a place where we live, but a true sanctuary of well-being? The Danes, masters of the art of harmonious living, have found the key in the concept of hygge, a philosophy that celebrates the creation of cozy environments. One of their most valuable practices for achieving calm and happiness at home is the creation of islands of light—small oases of illumination that transform any room into an intimate and relaxing space.

The Choice of Light: A Key to Well-being

A few years ago, while furnishing my home, I found myself in a situation that, although seemingly trivial, reflected a deeper quest for comfort and well-being: choosing the perfect lamp for the living room. This space, intended for rest, had become my refuge—the corner where, after a long day, I could feel calm enveloping me with simple activities like reading a book or enjoying a TV show. After testing multiple lamps and light bulbs, I finally found the perfect combination: one that provided the exact number of lumens to create the cozy atmosphere I so longed for. However, if I had known about the Danish habit of lighting back then, the task would have been much easier.

The Danes, pioneers in the quest for happiness at home, have perfected the art of using light to their advantage. Meik Wiking, director of the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen, explains in his book Hygge Home: How to Make Your House a Happy Space the importance of carefully choosing the light sources within the home. He highlights that while maximizing natural light is always ideal, the real magic lies in how we integrate artificial light into our spaces to transform our emotions and moods.

Islands of Light: Small Zones of Calm

One of Wiking’s most fascinating recommendations is the creation of “islands of light.” These strategically lit corners allow us to shape the ambiance of a room and turn it into a place of warmth and tranquility. The idea is simple: identify the darkest areas of the living room, those that often go unnoticed, and add downward light points with floor lamps, table lamps, or even wall sconces that emit soft, warm light. These islands of light not only illuminate the space but also invite relaxation, creating small oases of serenity amidst the daily hustle and bustle.

Imagine a corner by the sofa, where a floor lamp with a linen shade casts a soft glow, inviting you to read or simply reflect. Or a coffee table where several minimalist table lamps spread a diffuse light, transforming the space into a cozy retreat. The art of hygge lies in these small gestures—in creating an environment where each light source has a purpose, whether it be for dining, reading, or simply savoring the moment.

Lighting with Purpose: Every Lamp Tells a Story

Lighting design is much more than a decorative detail—it’s a statement of intent. Every lamp we choose reflects our desire to transform a room into a space of well-being. According to Wiking, it’s important to remember that not all lights serve the same function: a warm, soft light is ideal for moments of relaxation, like a quiet dinner or a glass of wine at the end of the day. On the other hand, a more powerful light is necessary for specific tasks, such as washing dishes or cleaning, where visibility is key.

The choice of lamps should also align with the lifestyle we wish to create. Wiking suggests avoiding traditional ceiling lamps, such as chandeliers, and instead opting for wall or ceiling lamps with glass or soft fabric shades that diffuse light evenly. This choice not only contributes to a more relaxing atmosphere but also prevents the light from being too harsh or direct, allowing spaces to feel more welcoming and less formal.

The Magic of Candles: Small Sources of Light with Great Impact

If changing all the lamps in the living room isn’t a viable option at the moment, there are simple and accessible ways to begin implementing this philosophy. Candles, for example, are an excellent alternative to introduce warmth and calm into the home. Lighting a few candles during dinner or while watching a movie is an immediate way to create an atmosphere of serenity. Moreover, the flickering light of candles is not only synonymous with hygge, but it also has a relaxing power that goes beyond the visual, especially if candles with pleasant scents are chosen.

Aromas That Transform: The Perfect Complement to Light

Lighting is just one part of the equation when creating a home filled with calm and happiness. According to the concept of Scent Scaping, creating specific olfactory spaces within the home can enhance emotional well-being. In the living room, warm and spicy aromas such as ginger, sandalwood, pine, or fig are ideal for complementing soft lighting and creating an enveloping atmosphere. These scents, combined with the right lighting, help to create an environment that promotes relaxation and disconnection.

The Importance of Caring for Our Space: An Act of Self-Love

We spend a significant portion of our lives at home. According to Meik Wiking, we spend 68.7% of our time indoors, and studies by the World Health Organization (WHO) have shown that exposure to inadequate lighting can increase the likelihood of depression. Therefore, taking care of the ambiance in our homes is essential to maintain a healthy emotional and mental balance. Every small detail—from choosing a lamp to selecting the type of aroma that fills the living room—contributes to our overall well-being. By caring for our surroundings, we are also caring for our mental health.

The Home as a Refuge: A Space for Calm and Happiness

The pursuit of happiness at home doesn’t require large investments or drastic changes. Often, it’s the small details that make all the difference: a lamp that casts the right light, a candle lit as night falls, or the subtle scent of an essence that evokes peace. The Danes, masters in the art of creating cozy environments, have taught us that the key to finding calm and happiness at home lies in how we inhabit our spaces and how we use light to transform them. Creating islands of light is not just a matter of design—it’s a conscious act of self-care, a luxury we can all afford.

In short, turning your home into a refuge of calm and serenity is within everyone’s reach. With appropriate lighting, enveloping aromas, and a focus on the small everyday pleasures, we can transform any space into an oasis of happiness and well-being.

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