Whatever season it is - getting outside is a simple way to help boost your mental health, mood and general sense of wellbeing.
As with many of our tonics - it's free to do and only needs you to find time to get outside. As the days get longer, hopefully there are more opportunities to find time to get outside and experience the benefits of being out in the fresh air (and hopefully sunshine).
Taking the time to get some sunlight can be an important of our personal selfcare routine with a selection of benefits.
Below, we've listed 5 benefits of spending time outside.
Probably the best news is that you can start experiencing the benefits of being outside by spending as little as 20 minutes each day in the open air. If only 20 minutes can offer these benefits then hopefully you can find time to be outside be it as part of your commute, walking to the shops or doing other errands.
Sunlight triggers the release of serotonin, often referred to as the "happy hormone." Increased serotonin levels are associated with improved mood and a sense of wellbeing. Exposure to sunlight also helps regulate the body's production of melatonin, a hormone that influences sleep, leading to better stress management and improved sleep quality.
Sunlight is our natural source of Vitamin D, a crucial nutrient that plays a vital role in maintaining strong bones, supporting the immune system, and regulating mood. Adequate Vitamin D levels are linked to a lower risk of various chronic diseases, including cardiovascular issues and certain types of cancers.
Exposure to natural light, especially in the morning, helps regulate our circadian rhythm. This, in turn, promotes healthier sleep patterns. A well-regulated sleep-wake cycle is essential for optimal cognitive function, mood stability, and overall physical health.
Sunlight exposure has been linked to improved cognitive function and reduced risk of cognitive decline as we age. The combination of Vitamin D and serotonin produced through sunlight exposure contributes to better focus, concentration, and overall cognitive performance.
Vitamin D is a powerful ally for the immune system. It enhances the pathogen-fighting effects of monocytes and macrophages — crucial components of the immune defense system — reducing the risk of infections and supporting overall immune health.
...bringing it back to My Life Tonics. Getting enough sunshine each day is another example of optimizing the resources we have around us to make a positive impact on our physical wellbeing and mental health.
