The shortest day of the year was 2 days ago (CET, anyway).
We love light. On these dark winter days, it is the first thing we instinctively seek: we light candles, bring forward the timer on the table lamps, put up a big tree full of tiny lights.
Evolutionarily, light is crucial for us. We need it to be able to see our surroundings, to be able to make sense of the world around us.
Psychological studies on light have found that a good dose of light has positive effects on various cognitive processes such as attention en memory, and can help reduce depression.
And a study in Montreal, Canada (Aan het Rot et al, 2006) showed that a decent level of light was correlated with a better mood and less quarrelsome behaviour.
That is good news for festive family gatherings.
What also contributes to a good mood? Kindness.
While directed outwards, acts of kindness have a profound inwards effect: increasing self-esteem and well-being, but also compassion and empathy, which in turn makes you more likely to be kind again.
So light a little candle and be kind to one another. Both will brighten up your house on these dark winter days.
Happy holidays!
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