The sun’s benefits go beyond fighting stress.

The light from the box mimics natural sunlight that stimulates the brain to make serotonin and reduces excess melatonin.Įxposure to sunlight can also benefit those with:Īnxiety-related disorders and panic attacks have also been linked with changing seasons and reduced sunlight. You can get a light therapy box to have at home. So, you’re more likely to experience this type of depression in the winter time, when the days are shorter.ĭue to this connection, one of the main treatments for depression with seasonal pattern is light therapy, also known as phototherapy.

Sunlight cues special areas in the retina, which triggers the release of serotonin. The light-induced effects of serotonin are triggered by sunlight that goes in through the eye. There are several health benefits associated with catching moderate amounts of rays.ĭecreased sun exposure has been associated with a drop in your serotonin levels, which can lead to major depression with seasonal pattern.

This is a form of depression triggered by the changing seasons.Ī mood boost isn’t the only reason to get increased amounts of sunlight. Low levels of serotonin are associated with a higher risk of major depression with seasonal pattern (formerly known as seasonal affective disorder or SAD). Without enough sun exposure, your serotonin levels can dip. This hormone is responsible for helping you sleep. At night, darker lighting triggers the brain to make another hormone called melatonin.

Serotonin is associated with boosting mood and helping a person feel calm and focused. Exposure to sunlight is thought to increase the brain’s release of a hormone called serotonin. Sunlight and darkness trigger the release of hormones in your brain. But did you know the right balance can have lots of mood-lifting benefits? We’re used to hearing about how too much of the sun’s warm rays can be harmful to your skin.

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