It is a reality that there are many hazards in inadequate exposure to sunlight, and it is important to take into account the negative consequences that may occur if we do not protect ourselves and act appropriately. However, the sun is also a source of health for us and can affect our state of mind
If we take the sun in a moderate way (between 10 minutes and an hour, with the necessary protection and avoiding the hottest hours), this will bring us a positive variation of effects such as:
- Improved defences
- Regulation of melatonin, therefore it will help us to sleep better
- Receiving Vitamin D for bones
- Some benefits for the skin (for example, in acne)
- Reduces blood pressure, preventing cardiovascular disease
Although the best known benefit we receive from the sun is the improvement the state of mind. This is due to the fact that human behaviour depends on the amount of light that the organism receives, leading us to elevate our sense of well-being and happiness. The cause of this great effect is the serotonin, the so-called happiness hormone.
How Serotonin Works
The relationship between this hormone and well-being is highly verified.
Serotonin acts in the brain as a neurotransmitter and is responsible for pleasure, motivation and general mood. It is for this reason that on sunny days we are in a better mood, because the light of the Sun acts in different areas of our brain.
When regulating the body temperature we feel also well, since it stops being a cause of discomfort.
Thanks to good levels of serotonin it stabilizes the emotional state and, therefore, the levels of aggressiveness are reduced.
Serotonin is found in the brain, but it is in the intestines that there is a higher concentration of hormone. It is no coincidence that they call this part of the organism our second brain. In this way serotonin also acts as a regulator of digestion, causing gastrointestinal maladjustment if there are Inadequate levels. If too high levels of serotonin are found in the intestines this can cause diarrhoea; And if, on the other hand, the levels are too low the effect will be the opposite, constipation.
Therefore, it is important to have this hormone regulated for a general feeling of well-being. Too low levels can lead to mental imbalances.
How to Increase Seratonin Levels
To increase, maintain or achieve adequate levels of serotonin, both in our brains and in the intestines, it is advisable to follow the following guidelines:
- Consume tryptophan (banana, cereal, soya or dark chocolate)
- Consume omega 3 (for example, nuts)
- Exercise regularly
- Carry out relaxation techniques
- Motivate yourself with new projects
Check our Stress and Anxiety Healthy Bar and you can find more information about how recover your essence
