After barely seeing the sun for about 9 months, the start of spring in the southern hemisphere is warming my soul. Okay, slightly dramatic, but the change of seasons I experienced after moving from Europe to Australia in June meant far less warmer weather than what I would’ve liked. I am, after all, a resident of the sunburnt country. I’ve always known that sunlight is important for your health, but I’ve heard an emphasis recently on morning sun in particular. So, I decided to do some research into the importance of getting sun first thing in the morning. Here is what I found.
Why morning?
The reason for the emphasis on morning sun is because of two chemicals produced in our bodies – serotonin and melatonin. Melatonin is the hormone that regulates our circadian rhythm and our sleep. The production of this hormone is caused from darkness, which is why you start to feel sleepy at night when the sun is long gone. When we’re exposed to sunlight just after we wake up in the morning, nocturnal melatonin production occurs sooner, and we can fall asleep more easily at night. The production of melatonin is also dependant on the seasons, which may explain why we feel sleepier during winter. Longer hours of darkness result in increased melatonin.
Serotonin – the precursor for melatonin – is also affected by sunlight. High serotonin levels are present with longer days (and therefore more UV exposure), which corresponds to more positive moods, along with a calm and focused mental state of mind. Early morning sun can therefore improve insomnia, seasonal affective disorder, and premenstrual syndrome. It not only affects our mood, but our energy levels and sleep quality too. Even just 10 – 15 minutes in the sun can be enough to reap these benefits.
Vitamin D
As well as affecting our melatonin and serotonin production, sunlight also impacts our levels of vitamin D. Rather than through food, vitamin D is synthesised within the skin when our bodies are exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet B rays. Almost every tissue in our body is regulated by vitamin D3 (the active form of the vitamin). It plays a big role in calcium metabolism, and neuromuscular and immune system functioning. Meaning, this vitamin is responsible for the formation and maintenance of healthy bones.
Now that you understand the importance of early morning sun, get your cute bum outside. I know not all of us are as lucky as I am to live in, literally, the sunniest capital city in the world. But, when you can, find that sunshine and make some of that delicious serotonin. Please do keep in mind that there are also risks with being exposed to UV for too long. Be safe and smart – wear your sunscreen. Enjoy!
Yours,
Kait x
Cover photo by Henry Altidor