The Power of Sunshine: How Getting Outside Boosts Your Health and Happiness

Sunshine and fresh air are more than just pleasant—they’re essential for our well-being. Spending time outdoors boosts mood, improves physical health, and enhances mental clarity. Sunlight provides vital vitamin D, which strengthens bones and supports immune function, while time in nature reduces stress and promotes relaxation. Whether it’s a morning walk, eating lunch outside, or simply sitting in the sun, embracing the outdoors can lead to a healthier, happier life.

What are the benefits of soaking up the sun?

“I’d like to think that human beings and plants share much in common,” says Emily Brault, Therapist at Centerstone. “We need sunlight to thrive and maintain important hormone balances in our brains.” Imagine waking up and it’s a gloomy, dreary day and it’s expected to remain that way all week. You may notice that you’re starting to feel tired, unmotivated, or even sad. Now, imagine how you feel the moment the clouds break, and you feel that first beam of sunlight on your face. You’re likely to notice a stark difference in your mood.

Serotonin is the “feel good” neurotransmitter in our brain that is directly linked to influencing our mood and our serotonin levels decrease if we don’t get enough sunlight. Reports show that lower levels of serotonin can be linked with higher risk of major depressive disorders and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Are there physical benefits of being outside?

Yes! Our bodies need vitamin D, which can be derived directly from sunlight. According to the National Institute of Health, our bones will not form properly without enough vitamin D. Getting vitamin D through sunlight exposure can promote physical health in other ways including regulating blood pressure and blood sugar, maintaining proper blood vessel health, and regulation of our immune systems.

How long should we be outside to reap the benefits?

While it hasn’t officially been determined how much sun we need to consume for its health benefits, it is important to always listen to your body. Too much sun exposure, especially without proper sun protection (e.g. sunscreen) can be harmful to the skin, whereas not enough can negatively impact our well-being.

Experts believe that optimal sun absorption is best within the time frame of 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. However, as long as you make time throughout the day, any time is a good time to reap the benefits that the sun and nature have to offer. Brault recommends aiming for 20 minutes outdoors, a minimum of three times per week. But, if that feels daunting, try going outside for 20 minutes one time per week, and increase the frequency on a weekly basis over a period of time.

What are five quick and easy ways for people with busy schedules to enjoy some time outside?

1. Enjoy your lunch outside.
2. Take small breaks throughout the day. Something as short as a five to ten minute break outside can be spent taking a brief walk or sitting outside soaking up the sun.
3. Consider setting a timer to remind yourself to take a break outside. Setting a timer can be a gentle reminder to check-in with yourself to get the vitamin D your body needs as fuel to finish out the remaining tasks of the day.
4. Having a colleague or friend join you outside for a quick break might be helpful in holding you both accountable, which also fosters a sense of connection and community.
5. When appropriate, consider taking one or more of your day’s virtual meetings outside.

Embracing the outdoors and soaking up the sunshine isn’t just a luxury—it’s a simple yet powerful way to improve overall well-being. From boosting mood and energy levels to strengthening the immune system and reducing stress, the benefits of spending time outside are undeniable. Making outdoor time a regular part of your routine can lead to a healthier, happier life. So step outside, breathe in the fresh air, and let the sunshine work its magic!

Enjoying more outside time can be a new great habit, however, changing your routine can be tough. If you need help getting started, Centerstone’s counseling services can help provide guidance to get you off the couch and into the sun! Contact us today at 1-877-HOPE123 (1-877-467-3123) or by visiting our website.