Embracing Nature’s Clock: The Healing Power of Morning Sunlight
By Dr Lucy Lex
There's something mesmerising about watching the sun rise and set. The soft pinks, oranges and golden hues create a sense of peace and tranquillity and remind us of the cycle of the earth.
Beyond the aesthetic charm, these natural moments also play a role in keeping our body's sleep schedule in sync for better health.
Our circadian rhythm serves as our internal body clock, guiding our sleep-wake cycle. Before alarm clocks became the norm, our bodies intuitively responded to the rising and setting sun. However, in today's fast-paced world filled with excessive screen time and junk artificial light many of us have lost touch with these natural cues. And it could be damaging your health.
Enter melatonin, the hormone responsible for inducing sleep. It kicks in during the evening, signalling to our bodies that it's time to rest. Early morning exposure to sunlight—suppresses melatonin production, boosting cognition, energy levels, and alertness, priming us for the day ahead.
Consistent exposure to sunlight in the morning hours is key to maintaining a healthy circadian rhythm. This consistency allows melatonin levels to follow a predictable cycle, ensuring optimal sleep quality, improved energy levels, sharper cognitive function, and better mood regulation.
What can you do?
Open your curtains as soon as you wake and let the sunlight in
Step outside within the first hour of rising to harness the benefits of morning sunlight. Just a few minutes every day can make a noticeable difference as you nurture your body's innate clock for a more vibrant and balanced life.
