The Science Behind Sunlight and Mental Health
The Sun does more than light up our world—it plays a powerful role in our mental well-being. One of the main ways it does this is by triggering the production of vitamin D in our skin. When ultraviolet B (UVB) rays from sunlight hit the skin, they stimulate the production of this essential nutrient. Vitamin D is closely linked to mood regulation, and low levels have been associated with depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
Sunlight also influences the production of key brain chemicals:
- Serotonin: Exposure to sunlight increases the brain’s release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that boosts mood and helps you feel calm and focused. This is one reason people often feel happier on sunny days.
- Melatonin regulation: Sunlight helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle by controlling Melatonin production. Melatonin is a hormone that makes you feel sleepy, and its balance with serotonin supports healthy sleep, which is crucial for mental health.
Spending just 15–30 minutes a day in natural sunlight—especially in the morning—can provide these benefits. However, it’s important to balance sun exposure with skin protection to avoid the risk of skin damage.
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