The Surprising Benefits of Sunlight on Your Health
By Brandi Goodman
Although the first official day of summer does not arrive until June, many people start to get outdoors more in May. The fresh air and gorgeous flowers brought on by the rain are a sight to see that people cannot resist. Being outside in the sun is about more than just getting a tan. Many surprising benefits exist of sunlight on your health.
Influx of Vitamin D
Vitamin D is essential to overall health. It can be obtained through diet but many people struggle to get an adequate intake. Experience an influx of Vitamin D when you're out in the sun since it provides a large dose of the vitamin through the skin. All you need is a half-hour outdoors and you'll get the amount you need to help your health.
Boosted Mood
Being outside in the sun can boost your mood. The warmth of the sun paired with the beauty of the nature around us helps us to feel calm and peaceful. People tend to feel less stressed when they're outside than they do when they're indoors.
Enhanced Sleep
The body's sleep cycle can get thrown off significantly when it is not exposed to light. The circadian rhythm goes off track. Enjoying plenty of sunshine during the day helps your body to remain in tune with this rhythm and stay awake in the daytime and sleep once darkness arrives. Once night falls, you need to avoid unnatural light provided by devices if this is going to remain true, however.
Immune System Improved
The immune system does not operate as well during the winter months. It's easier for the body to get sick. The sunlight, along with the Vitamin D it provides, helps to improve the immune system and prevent illness from setting in as easily. This boost in immunity helps to keep symptoms of colds and the flu away.
More Chances for Activity
Exercise seems to be easier when it's done in fun ways outside. The sunlight and nice days provide more chances for activity. This can help people improve their fitness, maintain or lose weight, and experience better health. Find things that are fun to do outdoors, such as riding your bike, taking a walk on a trail, going rollerblading, or anything else you enjoy -- and do them as often as possible.
The sunlight does wonders for our health. Just remember, though, it also gives off harmful UV rays that can cause damage to the skin. Get the benefits of the sun by also being smart and keeping covered with sunscreen and wearing sunglasses to protect the skin and eyes.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Anderson, S.C.