The benefits of spending time in natural sunlight cannot be overstated. Exposure to sunlight provides numerous health benefits that help to boost our physical and mental wellbeing. In this article, we will explore some of the key benefits of spending time in natural sunlight.
Vitamin D Production
Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D. When our skin is exposed to sunlight, it produces vitamin D, which is essential for healthy bones and teeth. Vitamin D is also known to boost our immune system and reduce the risk of certain cancers, heart disease, and diabetes.
Improved Mood
Sunlight exposure is known to boost our mood and make us feel happier. This is because exposure to sunlight stimulates the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates our mood, appetite, and sleep. Increased levels of serotonin are associated with feelings of happiness and wellbeing.
Better Sleep
Exposure to sunlight during the day can help regulate our circadian rhythm, which is our body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. When our circadian rhythm is disrupted, we may experience difficulty sleeping at night. Exposure to natural sunlight during the day can help reset our circadian rhythm and improve the quality of our sleep.
Reduced Stress
Spending time in natural sunlight can help reduce stress levels. Exposure to sunlight triggers the release of endorphins, which are hormones that help to reduce stress and anxiety. Sunlight exposure also helps to lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which can have a negative impact on our health if levels are consistently high.
Improved Cognitive Function
Exposure to sunlight is known to improve cognitive function, including memory, attention, and concentration. Studies have shown that spending time in natural sunlight can improve cognitive function in people of all ages, from children to the elderly.
Increased Energy
Exposure to natural sunlight can boost energy levels and reduce fatigue. Sunlight exposure helps to stimulate the production of serotonin and other hormones that help to regulate our energy levels throughout the day.
Reduced Risk of Seasonal Affective Disorder
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that is triggered by the changing seasons. SAD is more common in the winter months when there is less natural sunlight. Spending time in natural sunlight can help reduce the risk of SAD by boosting mood and increasing energy levels.
Improved Skin Health
Exposure to natural sunlight can improve skin health by promoting the production of vitamin D and reducing inflammation. However, it is important to practice safe sun exposure and avoid overexposure, which can increase the risk of skin damage and skin cancer.
In conclusion, spending time in natural sunlight has numerous health benefits that can improve our physical and mental wellbeing. However, it is important to practice safe sun exposure and avoid overexposure, which can have negative effects on our health. By spending time outdoors and enjoying the benefits of natural sunlight, we can improve our overall health and wellbeing.
About The Author
Dr. Leo is a highly-qualified and dedicated primary care physician who graduated from Manila Central University College of Medicine in 2018. He passed the Physician Licensure Exam in 2019, and has since gained valuable experience practicing in various settings such as being a company physician, doctor-on-duty for outpatient clinics, and a telemedicine practitioner.
What sets Dr. Leo apart is his dual-certification as both a physician and a registered nurse, having passed the Philippine Nurse Licensure exam in 2012. He has a unique perspective on healthcare as he believes in taking a holistic approach addressing the root cause of an issue rather than just treating symptoms. He is dedicated to finding long-term solutions for current disorders and preventing new ones.
