Can exposure to the sun boost your performance at work?
In recent years, there has been much coverage of the danger of too much exposure to the sun’s rays.
While these concerns are legitimate, exposing yourself to some direct sunlight has plenty of positive benefits too – provided you ensure the right balance. In today’s post we will be exploring some of these benefits and providing some useful information to help you stay safe in the sun!
The effect of light on your brain
Both sunlight and darkness trigger the release of hormones in your brain.
Exposure to sunlight is thought to increase the brain’s release of a hormone called serotonin. This is associated with boosting your mood and helping you to feel calm and focused.
Without enough sunlight exposure, your serotonin levels can be substantially reduced. Low levels of serotonin are associated with a higher risk of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) – a form of depression that is triggered by changing seasons.
At night, darker lighting cues trigger your brain to make another hormone called melatonin. This hormone is responsible for helping you feel ready for bed!
Further benefits of exposure to the sun
A mood boost isn’t the only reason to get increased amounts of sunlight. There are a number of other health benefits associated with catching a moderate amount of rays.
Aside from the sun helping your body to fight stress, exposure to the sun can also:
- Build stronger bones
- Boost overall health and wellbeing, making you more resistant to sickness and disease
- Help with several skin conditions
How much sun exposure is safe?
There are no strictly defined measurements of how much sun exposure will give you the benefits without risk of over-exposure.
According to the World Health Organisation, getting anywhere from 5-10 minutes of sunlight on your arms, hands, and face two to three times a week is enough to enjoy the Vitamin D-boosting benefits of sun.
Many sun protection products block the dangerous rays while still allowing you to benefit from being out and about on a sunny day – so why not be like Josh at Integra and get some sun to boost your performance at work!
Article by Greg Milner