Here’s why you need to soak in sunshine for great mental health

Just like our planet earth needs the sun for its survival, so do we. Most of us are aware of the fact that moderate exposure to the sun has a plethora of benefits for our physical health. However, very few are aware of the fact that we need sunlight for our mental health as well.

Yes, it is true! When you get healthy exposure to the sun, it has the ability to do a whole lot of good to your mental health.

Don’t believe us? Well, we have science backing us up! There’s plenty of scientific evidence which demonstrates that sunshine is important for maintaining one’s mental health.

Also, read: 5 horrible things that happen to your body when you don’t get enough vitamin D

We do so much to keep ourselves mentally healthy. Another thing to add to that list is spending time under the sun. Here’s how it helps:

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1. The free mood uplifter you need
You might have noticed that in a house that lacks sunlight, one eventually tends to start feeling blue. Feeling blue all the time isn’t normal. So, you’ve got to make sure that you’re soaking up the sun for 10 to 20 minutes to lift up your spirits.

A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders observed that people report feeling more mentally distressed on days which are characterised by little to no sunshine. The days which were sunny were characterised by better mood and mental health.

2. Gives your body a much-needed serotonin boost
Going for a short 15-minute walk when the sun is still up can give you the much-needed serotonin boost. Serotonin, also known as the happy hormone, is responsible for lifting up your mood.

This serotonin boost can also help in warding off the Seasonal Affective Disorder, also known as SAD, in the winter months when there is little sunlight. So, try sunbathing in your backyard whenever you have the chance to stabilise your mood.

3. Improves your quality of sleep
When you are not in a good mental space, your sleep cycle tends to get affected. You tend to sleep too little or too less. This means that you won’t be feeling well-rested.

Sunshine might just help you sleep better. Apart from boosting your mood, serotonin also helps in regulating your sleep cycle.

To catch on some sleep at night, try catching up on some sunlight in the day!

The best part about this mental health tool is that it is easily accessible and safe as long as you are wearing your sunscreen. However, please note that sunlight can work wonders to uplift your mood but if your mental health issues persist, you should approach a professional.