Benefits of sunlight
Research shows that being out in the sun makes people not only happier but also healthier. When the days get shorter it is sometimes difficult to go outside. But it is not good to constantly stay cooped up from morning until dark. It is depressed to deal with fewer sun time hours during the winter months. For many people, winter is a giddy time. And not everyone has the opportunity to go for a holiday to Spain (translated to Dutch: overwinteren). Why is sunshine so important for people? Here are some reasons.
Vitamin D
The sun gives our vitamin D. It is hard to get vitamin D from foods alone. Vitamin D stimulates immune function and promotes healthy cell land bone growth, it also reduces inflammation. Did you know that sunshine lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of colon and breast cancer. It helps people to cure skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
If you’re not getting enough vitamin D it can lead to problems like mood disorders, a weaker immune system, decreased bone density and more. You don’t need to spend hours in the sun, studies suggest that ten minutes a day in the brightest period of sunshine is sufficient. If you live in a place where not much natural sunlight you might want to try a vitamin D supplement.
Higher productivity
The sun also increases energy and vitality. A study found that employees working in natural light recorded lots more energy than employees working under artificial light. This confirms that natural light leads to enhanced productivity.
Nature’s clock
It is very healthy to spend time outside in the fresh air. Sunlight helps to keep your internal body clock on schedule. Living in the developed modern world with smartphones, a notebook 17 inch (translated to Dutch: laptoptas 17 inch), fast cars and luxury products such as a wine cooler (translated to Dutch: wijnkoelkast) can be easy to forget our natural needs. Unfortunate, because sunlight has so many benefits. It can help to deal with mood changes and research suggest that sunlight exposure is linked to better sleep. If you get less light it is more difficult to fall asleep. Also, a study out of the University of Glasgow found that people who walked outside in nature had a lower risk of poor mental health than people who sport at home or at the gym.
Go outside!
It is advised to get in the sunlight for 10-15 minutes a day. That is enough. So break free by taking your lunch break outside. Maybe you can take a morning walk before work. Or say to your boss: I’m taking the rest of the day off, it’s for my health!”
