Sun | Photo by Alexis Lewis | The Wright State Guardian
Winter is closing into spring, crocuses and daffodils poking through the soil and frost. These are five benefits in soaking up those rays.
1. Boosts vitamin D
According to the National Institutes of Health, sun exposure helps boost vitamin D levels, which has other health benefits in itself.
Vitamin D has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, promotes bone and dental health and helps lower blood pressure. Overall, the vitamin protects healthy body function.
2. Lowers blood pressure
As previously mentioned, a quick trip in some sunshine can lower blood pressure.
“The skin contains large quantities of nitrate, which the ultraviolet (UV) radiation in sunshine converts into nitric oxide. When nitric oxide enters the circulatory system, it lowers blood pressure slightly, and this is influential,” the Buxton Osteopathic Practice website reads.
Stress is often the culprit of high blood pressure, making the sun’s rays important in trying times. This may be especially true for sufferers of Seasonal Affective Disorder.
3. Relieves seasonal depression
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is also referred to as seasonal depression. If you suffer from a crest-fallen mood during fall and winter, you are not alone. Sun exposure may help.
“Getting some sun may also shake off the wintertime blues: Research suggests that light hitting your skin, not just your eyes, helps reverse seasonal affective disorder (SAD),” a Harvard Health Publishing release reads.
4. Reduces stress
Your sunwashed days may not only wash away feelings of SAD, but may also bring about positive feelings.
According to the Tri-Health Medical Center, getting some sun increases overall serotonin levels and helps combat SAD. Through years of study, serotonin is proven to improve mood and reduce stress levels.
5. Improves sleep
The Royal Women’s Hospital explains that sunshine helps regulate hormones that dictate sleep patterns.
“Sunshine may play a role in regulating hormones and sleep patterns by affecting the melatonin circadian rhythm. Melatonin is a hormone produced in the pineal gland, from the chemical melanin. Melanin is produced in the skin through sun exposure. Melatonin helps with inducing sleep,” the hospital website reads.
Combined with a regular sleep schedule, sunshine is perfect for aiding in sleep. Welcome in the sunny days while writing your novel, painting a picture or cracking open your favorite literary magazine.
Previously published in ‘Sunwash: A Curated Collection.’
