More and more people worry about the harmful effects of sunlight. They lather with sunscreen and wear hats to avoid getting any exposure to the sun. They are concerned about sunburns and the potential for cancer due to too much sun. They avoid the sun at all costs, without knowing that underexposure can be just as harmful.
The truth is that there are many benefits of getting plenty of natural sun. Here are some of the most common reasons to walk outside for a few minutes a day.
Health Benefits of Sunlight
1. Sunlight releases serotonin.
When a person gets ample sunlight, their brain releases serotonin. This helps their mood, making a person feel calm and focused. When your serotonin levels get low, you may find yourself dealing with some depression. Those who spend a lot of time outdoors often find themselves unhappy in the winter when they can’t be outside as much.
2. It also improves your sleep.
Your body needs a night and day routine in order to sleep. As the sun starts to go down, your body starts producing melatonin, which helps you fall asleep faster. It will also help you stay asleep all night long. The more time you spend outside in the sun, the better your body will produce melatonin when it becomes dark.
This is also why those who work at night struggle to sleep during the day. Your body needs to be asleep when it is dark outside. It is also the reason why some people who work in a dark office struggle to fall asleep at night. Your body isn’t getting enough sunlight, so it may be producing melatonin all day long (or just not enough of it at night).
3. Sunlight is also necessary for strong bones.
When a person is out in the sun, their skin will create vitamin D. This vitamin is essential to keep your bones strong and healthy. Low levels have been linked to rickets in children. Those who suffer from osteoporosis and osteomalacia often don’t get enough sunlight either.
4. It also helps to strengthen your immune system.
Vitamin D is also essential for your immune system. When you have enough vitamin D, your body can fight off disease and infections more easily. You will feel better, and you won’t get sick as often.
5. It can help reduce inflammation.
This can help you heal after a surgical procedure. It can also help with any pain that you may be dealing with.
6. Getting enough sun can help lower your weight.
Most people spend time outside being active, which is good for weight loss. Whether you are walking, hiking or working in your garden, this time outside is definitely good for your weight (and body).
7. It can also help with stress.
Nothing is better than spending a few minutes or hours outside in the sunlight. Even a quick walk outside during your lunch break can improve your mood. That being said, even if you just sit and enjoy the day, it can do a lot for your mood. You will come back to work focused, revitalized and ready to get back at it!
8. And lowers your blood pressure.
Researchers have found a link between exposure to the sun and lower blood pressure levels. This will help to prevent cardiovascular issues, including death.
9. It also helps to prevent cancer.
Though most people think about skin cancer when they think about sun exposure, the truth is that people who live in areas where they don’t get as many hours of sunlight may have other types of cancers. These include colon, prostate, ovarian and pancreatic cancer.
10. Sunlight is also the treatment for many types of skin conditions.
Though it is often thought best to avoid the sun, there are times when sun exposure can really improve your skin condition. This is especially true for those dealing with psoriasis, eczema, jaundice and much more.
11. It can also prevent certain diseases.
According to some research, sunlight can prevent Type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis. It helps with glucose metabolism, so it may help a diabetic become more regular. It may be worth spending more time outside to help regulate your sugar levels.
12. Those who spend time in the sun may live a longer life.
Studies are being done to see how sunlight affects your lifespan. One study, done in Sweden, found that those who spent more time in the sun lived up to two years longer than those who stayed away from the sun.
Don’t be afraid of a little sunlight!
It can be really hard to change the way that you feel about the sun. No matter how much you were taught to lotion up and cover up, the truth is that some sun is quite healthy for you. A little bit of sun can uplift your mood and bring some calmness to your day. For that reason, you shouldn’t skip your daily walk unless you have to. Not only will it be great for your waistline but it will also help to improve your mood. That being said, even if you just spend a few minutes enjoying the outdoors, your mood will also improve. You may notice a calmness about you, just from soaking up some rays.
You also need some sunlight so your skin can produce enough vitamin D to keep your bones strong and healthy. It will also help your immune system. Those who spend time outside are less likely to get sick because of vitamin D. You may also need some sunlight therapy to keep your skin as healthy as possible. It can treat many skin conditions, including psoriasis, eczema, jaundice and much more.
Because of this, more and more spas are offering their services. Sunlight therapy can be a great way to balance your physical and mental health. If you are trying to take care of yourself and your mental health, contact us today. We offer massages, facials, foot care, and much more. We promise you that you will be more relaxed as you leave your appointment. Don’t wait. Schedule your appointment today!