Sunshine Can Help Your Brain Grow Big And Strong

And help you feel happy, too!

The b5media Health & Wellness Channel’s theme day topic for this month is “Summer Fun,” and what’s the one common factor in almost every fun summer activity?

Sunshine!

Increased risk of cancer, wrinkles, heat exhaustion – sunshine has its downfalls, I know. However, like many things, sunshine can be excellent in moderation – especially for your brain and mental health!

Feeling cranky? Snapping at others? Get some sunshine. In 2007, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research published information about a study that shows “an association between catching rays and not just improved mood but also being more sociable.”

Sunshine provides a free daily dose of Vitamin D. And we all love something free, right? Not only does Vitamin D promote brain health, including brain development and function, but it may also help prevent and manage depression.

Sunshine also helps boost serotonin levels. Serotonin is that feel-good hormone that many antidepressants are designed to help your brain produce. Serotonin is your friend because not only does it help lift your mood and bust depression, but it also helps regulate your sleep patterns and get your groove on (you know, when you’re not sleeping) – sleep and sexy time both do your brain good. No pun intended.

Sunshine is inviting. Ever notice how people are more willing to leave their homes when the weather is warm and the sun is shining? Sunshine makes the idea of engaging in activities you enjoy – like spending the day with friends, watching or playing an outdoor sport, gardening, and walking the pooch – much more inviting, and physical activity is great for your mental well being.

Sunshine can help alleviate pain. Now, I don’t have any research or studies or statements from official organizations to back me up on this, but I do know that the heat from the sun has often helped my minor aches and pains – and I tend to feel better mentally when I feel better physically. Marijke at Help My Hurt mused on this topic back in May, and one reader commented that the sun helped her sometimes, but hurt at other times (such as triggering migraines). So, naturally, you need to do what works for you, and avoid what doesn’t.

What about you? How have glorious rays of sunshine helped your mental health? Or, even hurt it?

Image: SXC and Jef Bettens