Sometimes our simple intuitions aren’t given enough credit. If you are having a craving time in the sun, listen up. There are some fantastic scientific reasons to support getting into sunlight. In this blog, we’ll explore the symbiotic relationship between sunshine and mental health, uncovering the science behind its positive effects.
There are several ways that the science of sunshine can support mental health. Let’s start with your mood. Exposure to sunlight stimulates the production of vitamin D in our bodies, a critical nutrient for mental health. Vitamin D does a lot of great things for the body, one of them is reducing the risk of depression and mood disorders. Sunlight also triggers the release of serotonin, we will call it the “happy hormone”. Increased serotonin levels contribute to positive mood and can help both symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Stress is a big conversation in mental health. Sunshine actually helps the body manage the fallout from stress. Sunlight exposure helps regulate cortisol, that yucky stress hormone. That sense of calmness and relaxation you feel being in the sunshine is a very real response of the body finding relief from the flood of stress hormones. The mindfulness of finding a connection with nature also has significant benefits for managing stress. Whether walking in the local park or sitting in a sunny spot in the year, the combination of sunlight and nature fosters a calming and regulating environment.
Along with stress and mood improvement, sunlight supports healthy sleep. Not just helpful in getting us up in the morning, research suggests that time in the sun early in the day contributes to healthy melatonin production. Embracing the rhythm of daylight helps our body recognize its’ own sleep rhythm.
Some helpful ways to set a sunlight routine definitely include kickstarting your day with a morning “dose” of sunlight. Open your curtains, take a short walk, or enjoy breakfast on the porch. Anything you can do to soak in the energy of the early sun will help your body and mind. Practicing ‘mindful’ time in the sun can mean allocating time just for sun exposure. Take small work breaks to find a sunny spot. Use this time to practice deep breathing, let the warmth of the sun carry your mind from the grind and into a calmer place. Knowing this has full body benefits can enhance that sense of well-being and make the experience even more energizing.
It still pays to be mindful of sun safety. While sunlight has all kinds of benefits, be aware that a balance of exposure and protection is still important. Daily sunscreen, protective clothing and consciousness of the sun intensity during peak hours is still important. For some individuals living in higher latitudes, bringing the sun indoors may be a solution for colder, darker days. Open windows and let natural light fill the living spaces during crucial hours of light. Light therapy lamps are a good solution for when the sun is just not available.
Another wonderful approach to getting that dose of sunshine is considering it a time for socializing. Combine time in the sun with social times like activities with friends or family. People watching or time at a local dog park can be another approach to enhance time in the sun, focusing on fostering a sense of community or connection for yourself.
In the relationship between sunlight and mental health, the rays of the sun emerge as a powerful elixir, influencing our mood, stress levels, and overall well-being. By embracing the sunshine, practicing mindful exposure, and weaving it into our daily routines, we can cultivate a brighter, more resilient mental landscape. So, step into the light, feel its warmth, and let the radiant connection between sunshine and mental health nurture your sense of wellness.
