The magic of light

It enchants us, it controls our inner clock and creates happiness

L ight is life. And fire is safety. Both belong inseparably together. To tame the wild fire, to ignite it yourself – for our ancestors this was the evolutionary leap into a new, better world. To a life filled with warmth in an illuminated place that offered protection. Where they could gather in the light of flames, eat together, and communicate.

Fire remains almost as fascinating to this day. As the days get shorter and darker, and temperatures fall, so our need for light and warmth increases. We long for roaring log fires, candlelight, community and a glowing energy that magically attracts our gaze. That relaxes us, lets us dream, opens our souls and, in winter, partially replaces the invigorating sunlight we lack.

Light controls our inner clock and generates life. That is why it was worshiped as divine and sacred in early cultures. In ancient Egypt, for example, the sun god Aton rose to become the supreme divine being.

Light is a primordial symbol in many religions and cultures associated with the divine, and with access to higher, spiritual spheres. Just what a miraculous effect light can have on our mood is demonstrated every year by the Christmas tree. When we look at the candles, we forget our stress and the hectic pace of life, and the festive light magically makes us happy.