Physical Sunshine

I don’t know about you, but the weather here has been wonderful over the last few days!

I’m beginning to think I might be solar-powered.

Things just seem a little more relaxed and happy when the sun is shining, don’t they?

This week’s Mental Sunshine is about getting some physical sunshine.

We actually need to be exposed to the sun for our health, and although it’s important to ensure we don’t get burnt, we do need to spend some time soaking up those rays.

Sunshine prompts our bodies to produce Vitamin D, which is important for bone health, lowering blood pressure, boosting our immune system and - yes - mental health!

There is evidence that not getting enough Vitamin D can lead to depression-like symptoms.

Of course, we can take Vitamin D supplements - but as with any supplement, it’s always better to get these things from a natural source where possible.

As well as this, getting sunshine into your eyes in the morning actually helps to wake you up, and sets off a cascade of hormones in your body that will end with the release of melatonin in the evening, helping you to sleep better.

Sunshine can help to boost serotonin too, which is the “happiness hormone” that helps you to be both calm and alert. It’s the one most antidepressants try to increase in the brain.

So why not try and get some from sunshine?

Of course, it’s important to be safe in the sun - wear sunscreen if you’re outside for a while; drink lots of water; wear a hat to protect your head.

But remember that sunshine can be good for you too

For both your physical and your mental health!

Summer in the UK can be a bit hit-and-miss -

We get a few days of sunshine, followed by a few weeks of rain!

So get outside and enjoy the sunshine while you can!