As the world continues to adjust to living with COVID-19, millions of people have been glued to their television sets, anxiously awaiting any good news about the end of this pandemic. You’re probably getting tired of working from home and spending most of your social life on Zoom calls. If you’re like so many others, you’re itching to see your friends and family in-person, and not just on a computer or mobile phone screen.
Unfortunately, no one can say when that day will come. However, remembering that the world’s best scientists are working hard on a COVID-19 vaccine is comforting. It’s critical to stay motivated as we approach the virus’s second wave. Aside from regular exercise and nutritious eating, did you know that healthy doses of sunshine are also excellent for your overall wellbeing?
Soaking up a little bit of sunshine every day is scientifically proven to encourage positive mental health and contribute to your physical health. Let’s look at how sunlight can help you feel healthy as you power through COVID’s second wave.
Improves the Immune System
The sun’s rays are loaded with Vitamin D, which helps balance your immune system and protects against respiratory diseases. While Vitamin D isn’t a cure for COVID-19, there’s no harm in getting as much as you can to help fight off any unwanted illness in your body right now.
Reduces Stress and Encourages Good Sleep
The human body naturally creates a hormone called melatonin to help us sleep restfully by assisting the brain adjust to darkness and sinking your circadian rhythm with sleeping patterns. If you suffer from insomnia or are feeling stressed due to current events, consider natural sunshine benefits.
Research shows that getting at least one hour of natural light every morning can help regulate your circadian rhythm by signaling to your body when to increase and decrease your melatonin levels. The more daylight exposure you get, the better your body will produce the hormone when it’s time to fall asleep. Getting more natural light will also reduce your stress level because melatonin lowers stress reactivity.
Encourages Bone Health
Along with regular exercise, soaking up some rays is also beneficial for your bones. Strong bones need at least 1200 milligrams of calcium a day. Vitamin D found in sunlight helps absorb calcium in the body, so getting some sunlight every day can help you feel stronger and healthier.
How to Get Enough Sunlight in the Winter
It’s tough to get outside to enjoy the benefits of natural light during the winter when it’s so cold and dreary. One of the best ways to invite natural light into your home, at any time of year, is with a glass-enclosed sunroom extension. Sunrooms provide natural light, and you don’t even have to step outside to enjoy it. You can benefit from the sun’s advantages by reading a book or engaging in an online yoga class each morning in the comfort of home. If you wonder how much do sunroom costs — call your local sunroom and home addition expert to book a consultation. Every house is different, so it’s best to consult with a professional.
This winter, do your best to get as much natural light as you can. It will help you get through this challenging time, and you’ll feel great.
