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8 health benefits of getting more natural sunlight in spring
With the arrival of Spring and the marginally warmer weather, there has never been a better time in 2024 to get outside and absorb some of the many benefits of sunlight.�
Though the suns UV rays obviously pose a health risk, sun exposure does offer a range of health benefits from improved mental health to a reduced risk of cancer.�
Improved sleep�
Though it might sound silly to suggest that getting sunlight will positively affect your sleep, exposure to natural light is actually vital for our circadian clocks.
Studies have found that daylight exposure increases sleep duration and improves sleep quality, Dr. Simita Patel told VeryWellHealth. Sunshine may play a role in regulating hormones, your body’s internal clock (circadian rhythm), and sleep patterns by affecting the melatonin secretion in the evening hours prior to bedtime.
As such, a major method for treating insomnia disorders is to employ light therapy, also called phototherapy.
Reduced stress
Its believed that around 20% of Americans suffer from some form of mental health illness. With literally millions suffering through dark winters, the springtime is the perfect moment to get back out into the sun.
Research shows that sunlight triggers our brains to release serotonin, a hormone connected with mood changes. In turn, the chemical helps to fight back symptoms from burdens like anxiety, depression, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
Increased energy�
Another byproduct of that serotonin hit is the increased energy one experiences. Much like the plants you are neglecting in your window, sunlight is a vital component for growth, focus, and calmness.�
Through sunlight, we also absorb a large portion of Vitamin D, which is known to keep your energy levels high and your mood stable.
Vitamin D has been shown in research to aid the function of the mitochondria within the bodys cells, which is responsible for creating energy, Dietitian Rahaf Al Bochi told Live Science.
Live longer
Though science is still some distance away from the fountain of youth, you could bank a few more years simply by existing in sunlight.
One study from Sweden found that women lived up to two years longer when exposed to sunlight more often. You can do a lot in two years, just think of all the McDonalds nuggets you could eat in that time!
Interestingly, the same study also reported less heart disease and fewer non-cancer deaths due to sunlight exposure.
Stronger bones
If you werent already sold on the benefits of sunlight, then youll be interested to learn about how it could make your bones stronger. The same could also be said of your hair and teeth.�
As calcium can only be absorbed with the assistance of vitamin D, a 2008 study found that just 30 minutes of sun exposure was enough to make your bones stronger, healthier, and infection-free.
Fighting back illness
Besides the general health benefits of sunlight, exposure to UV rays also offers some protection from a plethora of diseases.
As reported by Healthline in a medically reviewed article, sun exposure can help fight back cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, inflammatory bowel disease, and thyroiditis.
Of course, there is a balance to be struck here. While absorbing sunlight is clearly good for you, overexposure also sparks its own risks. If in doubt, its always best to consult a medical professional.�
