Sunlight is one of the greatest forms of life-giving energy on Earth. Apart from the biological systems and temperature regulation on our planet, sunlight also plays a significant role in human health. The healing power of sunshine people have understood the value of sun exposure for thousands of years, from ancient civilizations that performed rituals, heliophagy, or sun worship to modern researchers who study biological processes in sunlight.
In our fast-paced world, where increasingly indoor lifestyles reign, understanding sunlight and your health is more critical than ever. Here at Health and Fitness at Mid Breaker, we explore the relationship between sunlight and your general well-being to find that balance of exposure and protection, so you can get out there feeling good.
The impact of natural light on your body
There are three types of rays in sunlight- visible light, ultraviolet (uv) rays, and infrared ray. Among these rays, UV rays — specifically UVB — are most responsible for prompting the body to produce vitamin D, also known as the “sunshine vitamin.” This vital nutrient assists the body in absorbing calcium for healthy bones and teeth as well as supporting immune function and mood. Vitamin D deficiency, which can occur from lack of sunlight, is associated with weak bones, fatigue, depression, and a higher risk for chronic diseases.
In addition, sunlight helps to regulate circadian rhythms — the body’s built-in alarm clock that signals when you should be awake or asleep. Getting exposed to sunlight in the early part of the day tells your brain that it’s time to be awake, and this can elevate alertness, mood, and energy. Alternatively, the absence of natural light can throw our internal clocks off track and cause insomnia, fatigue, and possibly even seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that’s linked to fewer daylight hours.
Mental Health Benefits of Sunlight
At Health and Fitness at Mid Breaker, we stress that mental well-being is just as important as physical health — and sunshine is a key factor in both. Being in daylight boosts the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that stabilizes our mood and makes people feel happier and calmer. That’s why being outdoors can often feel invigorating and refreshing.
Sunlight’s good for the soul. Research has shown that people exposed to more natural light are less depressed and tend to experience anxiety at lower rates. Sunlight therapy, or heliotherapy, has also been applied to the treatment of some mood disorders. Adding even short bursts of sunlight (morning walk, lunch outdoors) can do wonders for mood, focus, and productivity if you work long hours indoors.
Sunlight, Sleep, and Productivity
One of the more obscure advantages to sunlight, however, is how it affects your sleep quality. Natural daylight exposure during the day, particularly in the morning, helps to regulate melatonin production — the hormone that controls sleep. Those who get enough daylight can fall asleep more quickly, sleep more deeply, and then wake up feeling refreshed.
Moreover, sunlight exposure boosts productivity. Indeed, studies about the workplace environment demonstrate that workers in bright and naturally lit work environments are more performing, motivated, and are less symptomatic of both fatigue and eye strain. Exposure to sunlight at some point each day, whether from being outside or sitting by a window, is one of the best sources of energy you can get for the body as well as the mind.
Bright Sunshine and Exercise- The Best of Friends
At Health and Fitness at Mid Breaker Movement, we advocate outdoor exercise as that has combined benefits of sunlight, but also getting active. Be it with a run in the park, a cycle around your local area, or a spot of yoga outside- we can all benefit from boosting our heart health along with an extra hit of vitamin D and improved mental wellness. Exercising in the great outdoors can be less monotonous than a gym workout, which often means more consistency when working toward fitness goals.
Also, when working out in the sun, it boosts endorphin release, which are natural chemicals that cause pain and stress reduction, known as “feel-good” hormones. This unique union of physical exercise and natural light means that getting outside to work out can be a potent means of improving overall health.
Finding Your Healthy Balance
There are lots of reasons why staying in the sun can transform your health, both mentally and physically. From stronger bones and sounder sleep to a brighter mood and more robust immunity, the sun has countless gifts when we embrace it responsibly. However, balance is key. Too little exposure can result in deficiencies and fatigue, while too much of the wrong kind can cause damage to skin.
At Health and Fitness at Mid Breaker, we believe that the way to good health is to work with nature, not against. Get outside, let a few rays shine on your skin, breathe in the fresh air, and get back to the rhythm of nature. Little moments in the sun can just take minutes out of your day, and it can help you light your path to a healthier, happier you.
