Most of the time, we think of the negative effects of the sun, or at least I do. I always lather up with sunscreen if I’m going to be outside, or get burned and remember why I hate the sun so much sometimes. But, with SCAD students having a month of summer left, I would like to focus on some of the positive things that the sun can do for our bodies.
The reasons why you should get outside and enjoy the sun are:
1. The sun helps our bodies produce vitamin D.
According to Science Learning’s website, the sun is needed in order for our bodies to produce vitamin D. The production of vitamin D is important because vitamin D helps our bodies absorb calcium. Then, our bodies are able to strengthen our bones, muscles and immune systems.
2. The sun can cause us to be in a good mood.
The sun causes our brains to produce tryptamines. Tryptamines are a group of compounds that release endorphins and serotonin to improve our moods. So, being outside can make you relaxed if you are stressed and happy if you are sad.
3. The sun helps some skin conditions.
The sun is known for helping to cure acne, athlete’s foot, psoriasis, eczema and other skin conditions. The sun’s ultraviolet rays are what can help these skin conditions.
4. The sun increases the amount of red blood cells being produced.
The more red blood cells your body produces, the more oxygen you have in your blood. With more oxygen in the blood, the body is able to have increased blood circulation.
5. More sun will help your body in the long run.
The more sun exposure your body has, in small doses, the more of a resistance your body will build against the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays. If you get some color, without burning, the better equipped your body will be to handle the negative effects of the sun.
I’m not saying that you should ditch the sunscreen and run outside, but being sensible about how much sun you get can be good for your body. So, I think we should all take some time to enjoy our last month of summer in the sunshine!
