Start Small: Benefits of Sunshine

News 9 health coach Dottie Small joined News 9 at 9 and said sunshine can positively impact your physical and mental health.

Monday, June 3rd 2024, 10:06 am

By: News 9


Summer is here, which means more opportunities to get out into the sunshine.

News 9 health coach Dottie Small joined News 9 at 9 and said sunshine can positively impact your physical and mental health.

Small said the sun:

1. Sets Circadian Rhythm

Circadian rhythm is your body's natural internal clock, and Small says that getting exposed to the sun in the morning tells your body that it is time to wake up.

2. Improves Sleep

Small said getting outside to look at the sun for at least 5 minutes a day can help improve the body's production of natural melatonin.

3. Provides Natural Vitamin D Exposure

Natural vitamin D helps build immunity. Small said getting consistent sun exposure can help the body's immune system and help fight diseases long term.

4. Improves Mental Health

Small said the sun helps the brain release serotonin, a hormone that regulates mood. She said sun exposure can help fight seasonal depression as well as daily depression and anxieties.

She shared her simple yet effective tips: start small by waking up with the sun, opening your curtains, and taking short breaks outside throughout the day.


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