GET SOME SUNSHINE

In today’s fast-paced world, psychological health problems like anxiety and memory impairment are becoming very common. Research conducted over the past two decades, shows that hormones and neurotransmitters that follow stressful events, are major modulators of learning and memory processes in humans and that stress can cause cognitive deficits. Studies have however shown that exposure to sunlight can improve the brain’s ability to process information and complete tasks. In addition to stimulating brain activity, exposure to sunlight is also associated with improved mood and memory. Although, sunlight has many benefits, the ultraviolet rays of the sun can be very harmful. It is therefore extremely important to protect the skin for long outdoor activities.

From a young age, we are told that getting out in the sun is good for us, but we are equally told that if we are to age gracefully and safely, we must protect our skin. If you have ever been told that sunlight boosts your immune system then you already know that limited and controlled exposure to the sun can be beneficial. When we are exposed to sunlight, we release a hormone called serotonin in the brain, which promotes well-being and happiness. Long periods of time without exposure to the sun can result in a decrease in serotonin levels that can negatively affect your mood. Therefore, go out and get some sunshine!

Dr Ora Marx