Benefits of Sunlight
Summer brings lots and lots of sunshine.
This is ideal for plants, flowers, gardens, animals and us! I personally thrive when it’s warm and sunny out. I’m happier, more awake and I tend to spend so much time outdoors.
Our health actually benefits when we expose ourselves to the sun.
Down below I chat about the benefits of sunshine – Perfect timing for this topic considering summer officially starts tomorrow!
Benefits of Sunshine
Vitamin D
This may be the most commonly known benefit, and for good reasons too.
Sunlight starts the process of vitamin D production in the body. The rays from the sun interact with a protein in the skin that produces vitamin D3. This vitamin is essential for several processes and functions.
Vitamin D supports:
Strong bones and teeth
Brain function
Calcium levels
The reduction of inflammation
The immune system
Glucose metabolism
Sleep + Serotonin
Being in the sun stimulates the pineal gland which produces melatonin, our sleep hormone. This promotes relaxation and regulates sleep. The quality and duration is improved as well.
When you are getting quality sleep, tryptophan is regulated. This essential amino acid plays a role in serotonin production. This hormone makes us feel good, lifts our mood and increases our feeling of wellbeing.
Mood + Energy
With the increase in serotonin, your mood will be uplifted. This sense of feeling better enhances everyday life as well as your outlook. It can even have a role in reducing depression and anxiety.
You can also expect an increase in your energy levels. This occurs because of serotonin as well as brain activation. The brain receives signals to be alert and awake when getting sunlight.
You might even notice that your muscles feel and function better. With this comes better growth and recovery. This happens due to increased levels of serotonin, oxygen, melatonin and testosterone.
Fights Disease + Improves Immunity
The defense against disease can again be attributed to vitamin D exposure. Vitamin D is essential for immune system function and health. Sunlight also enhances the production of white blood cells which aids a strong immune system.
Inflammation decreases and the body can recover quickly. This helps reduce the risk of illnesses, supports heart health, better fights infections, lessens cancer risks and more. You’ll feel a difference when getting adequate sun exposure.
Takeaways
There are so many benefits of spending time in the sun – This is not an exhaustive list!
With all the time we spend on our phones and working behind screens, getting daily sunlight is more important than ever. Prioritize spending time in the sun each day. You’ll feel and move better.