Think about how we, as humans, react to light. The light around us can make us alert, keep us awake, or help us relax and calm down. For a newborn, who is used to the darkness and warmth in the mother's womb, the harsh, cold hospital lights can feel frightening and overwhelming. This is where pink light comes in as a natural solution, creating the right atmosphere of calm and security – for both the baby and the parents.
Pink Light: A Natural Way to Calm
Pink light has been used in neonatal and maternity rooms for several reasons, and it has been shown to have a strong, calming effect. As newborns, we are accustomed to being in a dark, warm environment – closer to the lighting conditions we experience in the mother's womb. When babies are born and meet the world, the strong, white lights commonly used in hospitals can be disturbing and frightening. This is where pink light comes in as a natural solution.
Fetal Light Exposure: Why the Color Matters
The fetus is used to a warm, reddish glow from the mother's body, so pink light feels more natural for a newborn. This soft color creates a comforting and calming atmosphere, helping both the baby and the parents relax in a new and challenging situation. It’s a practical way to create an environment that supports the baby’s natural need for peace and sleep.
Based on Research: Baker-Miller Pink
Scientific research, particularly the famous Baker-Miller Pink studies, has also shown that pink light has the ability to reduce stress and promote relaxation. In experiments conducted in prisons, it was observed that pink light could reduce aggression and anxiety in inmates, making it a good choice in environments where calmness is needed. This effect is something we can use in maternity and neonatal departments to create a more relaxed atmosphere for both parents and babies.
A Great Alternative for Night Lighting
Another advantage of pink light is that it is low in blue light, which can otherwise disrupt sleep and affect the circadian rhythm. Pink light helps create a pleasant nighttime ambiance without interfering with the body’s natural sleep cycle.
Kilder:
The Myth of Baker-Miller Pink (2017)
The Physiological Effect of Color on the Suppression of Human Aggression (1985)