You probably remember your science teacher emphasizing the importance of going out in the morning. Simple science states that when our bodies are exposed to sunlight for at least 15 minutes, they produce vitamin D. This Vitamin is very important to the body as it helps strengthen the bones and support the skeletal system.

A study by Dr. Timothy J. Legg, a senior physician, published in Healthline magazine shows that sunlight and darkness trigger the release of hormones in your brain. Exposure to sunlight is thought to increase the brain’s release of a hormone called serotonin.

He explains that serotonin is associated with boosting mood and helping one feel calm and focused. At night, darker lighting triggers the brain to make another hormone called melatonin, a hormone responsible for helping you sleep. This means the more time you spend in the sun, the more likely you are to sleep better.

Better sleep

The body’s internal clock is literally set by light, when the sun goes down in the evening, your body automatically sets to sleeping mode. According to research, sunshine regulates your circadian rhythm by telling your body when to increase and decrease your melatonin levels. As explained above, melatonin is a hormone responsible for your sleep. So, the more daylight exposure you get, the more melatonin and great sleep you get.

Stress reduction and mood boost

As earlier mentioned, sunlight boosts the serotonin chemical in the brain cells, which oversees the energy levels. Morning sunlight can boost mood as well as keep one calm, positive and happy. This has been supported by evidential recommendations by doctors to patients experiencing depression and other mental health issues. Away from the science however, the sun is seriously magical. This is why once you open your windows on a sunny morning, your body automatically gets ready for the day.

Eye health

In Africa, mothers usually take their newborn babies out in the morning sun. Moderate amounts of sun most preferably in the early morning sun are good for eye health as its in moderation and filtered compared to the sunlight after mid-day. Morning sun may make you less likely to experience eyesight issues in older age. So, go out in the morning to sunbathe or even just take a walk.

Weight loss

Scientists believe that20 to 30 minutes between 8a.m. and noon can make a difference in a person’s weight because the sun’s rays shrink fat cells below the skin’s surface. It is advisable to plan your workout early in the morning. As you take your daily runs, your body catches the required sunlight too. It’s a win-win situation.

Boosts overall health

Sunlight received in moderation has been shown to aid in production of white blood cells. These are responsible for fighting bacteria and viruses and fighting off infections. For example, for children who are always playing in risky environments, exposing them to the morning sun can support their general health. Sunlight is also known to improve heart health. In simple explanation, when sunlight heats your skin, your body happens to release nitric oxide into your blood. This nitric oxide helps to bring down blood pressure and hence, keep you healthy.

However, as important as sunlight may be, remember too much of anything is always bad. Don’t bask in the sun for long periods, especially after noon since at this time, the sun is too direct and might affect your health adversely instead.