☀️The Benefits of Sunlight
☀️ Hello everyone! Today we will be covering the benefits of sunlight! ☀️ Sunlight is essential for human health and well-being. The health benefits of sunlight include generating the production of vitamin D, better sleep, supporting bone health, lowering blood pressure, preventing disease, and promoting good mental health. Let’s look at all the details of each of these benefits!
🌞Better sleep - Sunlight supports better sleep and sets people’s circadian rhythms ( the natural, internal process that regulates the sleep–wake cycle and repeats roughly every 24 hours*1)by regulating the levels of serotonin and melatonin. When exposed to only natural light, a person’s circadian rhythm becomes closely synchronized with sunrise and sunset, staying awake during the day and sleeping when it’s dark. In modern society we have all these electronics which affect our sleep, especially if being used before bedtime.
🌞Vitamin D - Research has estimated that as much as 40% of the American population is deficient in vitamin D and almost 1 billion individuals worldwide don't get enough of the nutrient. Your immune system relies on Vitamin D and sunlight to perform critical functions, so a deficiency could lead to more issues than you may presume. Vitamin D supports your T cells, which serve as the front line of defense against illness. Vitamin D also helps you absorb calcium and phosphorus, which are essential ingredients in preventing bone weakening conditions like osteoporosis. There’s also some research that indicates people with acute symptoms of schizophrenia could have lower levels of vitamin D than people who don’t. The next time you're feeling run down, try a morning walk around the block or a lunchtime stroll. Even though I have my daily intake of sunlight I still take vitamin D3 supplement, especially in the winter.
Signs of vitamin D deficiency include:
* Fatigue
* Muscle or bone pain
* Mood issues, including depression
If you struggle with any of these, you could benefit from more sunlight exposure, particularly in the early morning hours.
🌞Lower Blood Pressure - It’s thought that exposure to sunlight triggers the skin to release stores of nitrogen oxides, which cause arteries to dilate, lowering blood pressure. This exposure actually comes from UV rays, not visible light itself. When your blood pressure is lower, it’s good for your overall cardiovascular health.
🌞Mental Health - Studies suggest that bright light therapy (both from a lightbox and the sun) might help improve the symptoms of bipolar disorder, depression, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
You've probably heard of SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder), which often happens to people in cold climates during the winter months when sun exposure is at a minimum. However, a few minutes of sunshine in the morning or a light box could alleviate this condition.
Sun exposure boosts serotonin levels, which is the brain's happy hormone. Don't be surprised if you find yourself starting to feel better after regular doses of morning sunshine.
I remember years ago when either my mom or I would be in a bad mood we would force each other on going on a walk, every single time we would come back in a complete different mood! I challenge you all to take a walk whenever you are not feeling like your normal self. Morning sunshine between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. is ideal. The hours after 10 a.m. and up until about 4 p.m. are known to have stronger, more direct rays. Being outdoors unprotected during this period increases your risk for sunburn and skin cancers. If you do need to be outdoors during peak hours, it is recommended slathering sunscreen on exposed areas. No matter your skin color, tone sunscreen is critical when you're exposed to the sun for prolonged periods. Experts recommend an SPF of at least 30 to keep you protected.
Author: Judith C.
Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) 1/19/2023