Sunlight has some amazing health benefits and you should take advantage even in the winter months and anytime you can spend some time outside you should charge your batters by doing so.
Ultraviolet radiation (UV) emitted by the sun can be harmful if you receive too much but in moderation sunlight has many health benefits. When natural sunlight hits your skin the body produces vitamin D. How much vitamin D is dependent upon a number of factors but many people are vitamin D deficient. Studies have indicated that up to 40% of Americans are deficient in Vitamin D. Having low levels of vitamin D, can cause muscle weakness, bone pain, lower immunity especially to respiratory illnesses, and depression. While you can supplement a more effective way to increase your vitamin D levels is to expose your skin to natural sunlight. It doesn’t take much, 15-20 minutes a day can be sufficient. Even on those cloudy winter days when you can’t see the sun, you can get enough sun exposure to meet your needs. Moderate sun exposure may increase your health by building stronger bones, improving the quality of your sleep, raise your mood and elevate your immune system.
WebMD posted an article about British researchers finding a link between sunlight and lower blood pressure. The research indicated that nitric oxide in the top layers of the skin is activated by sunlight. Nitric oxide causes blood vessels to open up which permits more blood flow lowering blood pressure.
Light and lack of light or darkness both triggers hormones in the brain. Sunlight activates serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter and it helps regulate mood and social behavior, appetite and digestion, sleep, memory and sexual desire and function. Lack of serotonin has been linked to depression. Serotonin is thought to be a contributor to feelings of well-being and happiness. Adequate levels of serotonin assists the bodies melatonin production. Melatonin is naturally produced in the body and is a sleep hormone.
While you shouldn’t look directly in the sun exposing the naked eye to sunlight greatly enhances the bodies ability to produce serotonin. Morning sun is best for this and it is thought to help with circadian rhythm.
Sunlight can increase the amount of oxygen in your body which can increase stamina and muscle development. I often refer to your body as a battery and adequate sunlight is necessary to charge that battery. So even if winter has you avoiding the outdoors, make some time on most days to spend some time outdoors to get all the benefits the sun can provide.