Is it true that sunny weather improves your mood?

Viivas
Viivas
Jul 27, 2017 · 2 min read

Sun is inextricably linked to life. In fact, when it is there, shining brightly, our behaviour changes. Light has a direct psycho-stimulating effect and is a natural antidepressant.

We know that light travels through the eye, thanks to ganglions placed behind the retina. The action of light rays passing through the retina stimulates the epiphysis cells, a hormonal gland that secretes melatonin, a hormone that is usually produced internally to fight against mood issues. Thus, walking in good weather is the perfect opportunity to fill up our energy reserves.

A few years ago, it has been demonstrated that capturing light with our eyes is not necessary to be in a good mood. In fact, several studies showed that even blind individuals can improve their mood during sunny periods. This proved that light is taken to an area of the brain called hypothalamus, which controls various hormones, such as melatonin, which is responsible for our mood.

This explains why, during sunny weather, our organism doesn’t need to secrete melatonin as much as usual.

During sunny periods, we have better mood. However, in the beginning of winter, light levels decrease, forcing our organism to produce melatonin in greater quantity to avoid possible seasonal depression.

In other words, sun, or more specifically, the light it provides, puts us in a good mood. It makes us more expansive, euphoric, and energetic, because it blocks the internal synthesis of melatonin.

Sun is one of the natural solutions that will incredibly boost your energy level as well as your mood. So don’t hesitate to spend time outside. Sit in a terrace and let your body absorb the sun rays… but be careful! Protect your skin and apply sunscreen on your body.


Viivas

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Viivas

One stop online wellbeing center delivering tools, products, activities, and experts to improve emotional wellbeing. www.viivas.com

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