Light and why it matters
In our topic today, you’ll uncover the magic behind that morning glow and explore why it matters to get a dose of sun as the very first thing in your day. It's a mood-lifting, mental health secret weapon!
That 'master' clock in your brain gets its cue from the sun. Getting light, especially sunlight, at the right time of day helps set your master clock and synchronize all the smaller clocks in your body but getting bright artificial light at the wrong time of day can confuse your clock and prevent you from being able to fall asleep when you want to.
Exposure to the rays of morning sun is a science-backed strategy for kick-starting your day on a positive note. This triggers the production of serotonin, the happiness-inducing neurotransmitter. This early serotonin boost sets the tone for a more positive and focused day ahead.
Why the morning sun is important
Morning sunlight directly influences your body's serotonin levels, enhancing your mood and creating a sense of calm. Exposure to natural light in the morning helps regulate your circadian rhythm, ensuring a more restful sleep at night. Disruptions in the circadian rhythm have been linked to various mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
Sunlight exposure is a significant source of vitamin D synthesis in the skin. Vitamin D plays an essential role in your brain health, influencing brain cell growth and development. Sunlight stimulates the production of cortisol, the energy-boosting hormone, giving you that extra kick to start your day with vitality.
Sunlight exposure in the morning helps suppress melatonin production, the hormone that induces sleep, making you feel more alert and energized during the day. This can help combat feelings of lethargy and fatigue, which are often associated with depression and other mental health issues.Taking a moment to enjoy the morning sun encourages a mindful start to your day, fostering a positive mindset and reducing stress.
Four tips to get more sunlight
Try to sync your wake-up time with the rising sun. It's a natural way to align your body with the rhythm of the day.
Open your blinds or curtains as soon as you wake up. Let the morning light flood your space and illuminate your morning routine.
If possible, step outside for a few minutes. Whether it's a balcony, backyard, or just your doorstep – embrace the outdoors.Take a short morning walk. It's a fantastic way to combine exercise, fresh air, and the therapeutic benefits of sunlight.
Now you can wake up with purpose, embrace the morning light, and make every sunrise an opportunity to improve your mental well-being.
That 'master' clock in your brain gets its cue from the sun. Getting light, especially sunlight, at the right time of day helps set your master clock and synchronize all the smaller clocks in your body but getting bright artificial light at the wrong time of day can confuse your clock and prevent you from being able to fall asleep when you want to.
Exposure to the rays of morning sun is a science-backed strategy for kick-starting your day on a positive note. This triggers the production of serotonin, the happiness-inducing neurotransmitter. This early serotonin boost sets the tone for a more positive and focused day ahead.
Why the morning sun is important
Morning sunlight directly influences your body's serotonin levels, enhancing your mood and creating a sense of calm. Exposure to natural light in the morning helps regulate your circadian rhythm, ensuring a more restful sleep at night. Disruptions in the circadian rhythm have been linked to various mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
Sunlight exposure is a significant source of vitamin D synthesis in the skin. Vitamin D plays an essential role in your brain health, influencing brain cell growth and development. Sunlight stimulates the production of cortisol, the energy-boosting hormone, giving you that extra kick to start your day with vitality.
Sunlight exposure in the morning helps suppress melatonin production, the hormone that induces sleep, making you feel more alert and energized during the day. This can help combat feelings of lethargy and fatigue, which are often associated with depression and other mental health issues.Taking a moment to enjoy the morning sun encourages a mindful start to your day, fostering a positive mindset and reducing stress.
Four tips to get more sunlight
Try to sync your wake-up time with the rising sun. It's a natural way to align your body with the rhythm of the day.
Open your blinds or curtains as soon as you wake up. Let the morning light flood your space and illuminate your morning routine.
If possible, step outside for a few minutes. Whether it's a balcony, backyard, or just your doorstep – embrace the outdoors.Take a short morning walk. It's a fantastic way to combine exercise, fresh air, and the therapeutic benefits of sunlight.
Now you can wake up with purpose, embrace the morning light, and make every sunrise an opportunity to improve your mental well-being.