The power of the sun is oftentimes underestimated. Spending time outdoors, even if it’s just for 20 minutes a day, comes with major benefits to your physical and mental well-being. In a technology-heavy society, a little fresh air and sunlight can rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul. Whether it’s for a walk or to lay out by the pool, try and make it a habit to get outside every day. 

When you’re caught up in work or other responsibilities, it can be difficult to set aside time to go outside. But you shouldn’t compromise your health because you’re busy. Make it a goal to spend at least 20 minutes outside a day. It’s nearly effort-free and comes with several health benefits. Below you’ll discover some health benefits that may motivate you to put down your phone and enjoy the sunshine! 

Exposure to Sunlight Can Enhance Overall Health

Have you ever heard of seasonal affective disorder, sometimes called “winter depression?” Research has found that during seasons with little sun exposure, people feel sad or unmotivated. This doesn’t have to do with the temperature, but rather diminished access to daylight. 

Exposure to sunlight increases the brain’s production of serotonin, a mood-enhancing chemical released in the body that promotes wellbeing and happiness. The human body runs on a clock called the circadian rhythm, a 24-hour biological process that regulates cycles of sleepiness and alertness. That’s why we feel awake when the sun comes up and tired when it’s dark. When your circadian rhythm is disrupted, your immune system, digestive system, cardiovascular system, nervous system, and other bodily systems don’t function properly. The healing power of natural sunshine can reset your circadian rhythm, not only improving your mood but also keeping you:

  • Focused 
  • Calm 
  • Alert
  • Energized

When your body’s rhythms are synchronized, you’ll have better quality sleep, less stress reactivity, and overall enhanced brain function. 

Daily Sunshine to Boost Vitamin D Levels 

The human body does not produce vitamin D on its own. Your body needs vitamin D to absorb calcium, which promotes and helps maintain strong bone health. Fortunately, everyone has access to vitamin D—all you have to do is walk outside! People who have vitamin D deficiencies have an increased risk of developing illnesses such as cancer, depression, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis. 

In addition, vitamin D plays a major role in skin health. When vitamin D is absorbed into the skin, it acts as a steroid that protects it from aging prematurely. It creates a barrier that helps control acne, eczema, rosacea, dry skin, or cancer. However, too much vitamin D can be damaging. The use of sunscreen or moisturizers with SPF can reduce your risk of developing wrinkles, age spots, sagging, and other forms of sun damage. 

Sunlight Has Powerful Anti-inflammatory Properties 

Inflammation naturally occurs in the body to help you fight off injuries, toxins, and infections. However, when inflammatory mechanisms fail, it may lead to pain and swelling. In more severe cases, it can contribute to developing certain health conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, cancer, or inflammatory bowel disease. Luckily, vitamin D has powerful anti-inflammatory properties to help combat these major inflammatory diseases. Vitamin D helps increase the production of cytokine proteins and pro-inflammatory cells which strengthen the immune system.

Plan Your Company’s Outdoor Event of the Year at Frogbridge 

Give your team a truly unique company picnic, filled with team-building activities and lifelong memories at Frogbridge Picnics & Special Events. From music and inflatable amusements to disc jockeys and variety performers, your employees will leave our 86-acre grounds feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Our Frogbridge team consists of experienced event planners who specialize in preparing and executing small-scale and large-scale corporate events. You can rest assured that every aspect of your outdoor corporate event will be well-coordinated from start to finish. 

Ready to book your outdoor event of the year? Call (609) 208-9475 or complete a contact form to learn more about the many packages available at Frogbridge.