Why Does Sunshine Make You Happy? Here Are Some Reasons

Have you found that you’re just in a better mood lately? And that your outlook on things has improved? Well, there’s scientific evidence to prove that there are reasons why sun exposure does make you happy!

“It might seem crazy what I’m ’bout to say,

Sunshine, she’s here; you can take a break 

Because I’m happy!” – Pharrell Williams 

I’ve done a little research. Have a look at what I’ve discovered here: 

Sunshine increases the production of serotonin – which leads to more happy feelings.  

Winter’s lack of natural sunlight may negatively affect our serotonin levels. Being out and about in the sunshine can increase the production of serotonin, our happy hormone. This deficiency is very challenging for those suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and why their treatment plan may include using a light therapy lamp that mimics natural sunlight.

Sunshine can improve sleep – which increases feelings of happiness and well-being. 

According to the Sleep Foundation, light is the most important factor affecting sleep. Experts at the Foundation state that we have a tiny mechanism in our brain called a “circadian pacemaker” that tracks where we are in terms of the day, sunrise to sunset. When light enters our eyes, a complicated system informs our “circadian pacemaker,” which then communicates with our organs, letting them know whether it’s time to wake up and get going or time to slow down and settle in for the night.

One more interesting side note – the earlier we are exposed to natural sunlight, the better. Our body begins tracking our day from the earliest moment of light, so it’s perfect for getting outside and having some sunshine early in the morning.

Sunshine can help with Vitamin D production. 

There is a good reason Vitamin D is called the sunshine vitamin. When sunlight reaches our skin, our body produces this critical vitamin, regulating the amount of calcium and phosphate. Now that it’s getting nicer outside be sure to catch some rays of sunshine and keep your bones, teeth, and muscles healthy! Other health benefits: Vitamin D also reduces the risk of certain medical conditions like heart disease and has been linked to reduced depression and weight loss.

Vitamin D deficiency can lead to many health issues. Learn more about this here.

A Healthline report also suggests getting 10-30 minutes of sunshine during midday, a few times per week, depending on your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight. Experts recommend using sunscreen after you’ve received just enough light to boost your natural Vitamin D levels.

Sunshine makes us happy by encouraging us to spend more time outdoors. 

When the sun is shining, we spend more time outdoors, which can improve our mood significantly. Research has shown that being outside in fresh air and nature for 20 minutes daily is associated with greater vitality. What’s more, exercise of any form outdoors can lift your mood significantly and even enhance self-esteem.  

Sunshine reminds us that every day is a new beginning.

Something is renewing about every single sunrise. We get a new chance to make a fresh start each day. No matter how difficult or challenging our lives might be at any given time, there is comfort in the sun’s rays and the rhythms of our days. And a refreshing clarity can be felt in the presence of a peaceful sunrise.

So what are you waiting for? Get outside and enjoy that sunshine!

“Even after all this time, the Sun never says to the Earth, “You owe me.”

Look what happens with a love like that, it lights up the whole sky.” – Hafiz.

There are many reasons to get out and enjoy the sun’s rays.  So get outside and soak up that Vitamin D.