How The Sun Impacts Your Mental Health
This post is about the psychological impact of the sun.
Written by a previous trauma therapist, a Licensed Master Social Worker, and current Student working toward her PHD learning how to bridge the gap between theology and psychology.
Disclaimer: This post uses affiliate links. I may earn a small commission on purchases (at no extra cost to you).
Are you curious about the psychological impact of the sun? Wondering how nature could improve your mental health? Today’s article takes a deep dive into the psychological impact of the sun and 7 amazing mental health facts. Now, let’s learn more about this topic!
How does the Sun Impact My Mental Health?
Malachi 4:2 “But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays. And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves.”
Most people do not consider the significant importance of something as simple as sunlight. In psychology, we understand how our physical environment impacts our emotional, mental, and physical wellbeing. There are many things we use to naturally regulate our nervous system, and sunlight is a majorly overlooked factor. When we step outside in the mornings, our eyes absorb the natural sunlight sending important signals to the hypothalamus part of the brain. THis part of the brain is known as the Endocrine System Regulation, which is responsible for regulating our body’s essential hormones. When our eyes absorb the natural sunlight, it triggers the brain to release serotonin, helping one feel more calm and regulated.
Sunlight also helps regulate one’s “circadian rhythm”, also known as our internal clock. By going outside it helps regulate our nervous system letting the brain know what hormones to release at different times of the day. When we are stressed and even depressed our natural instinct is to isolate ourselves and hide inside. However, going outside to soak up some natural sunlight either for a quick walk or just observing nature can help reground and regulate your nervous system, helping it get the boost it needs to get back in “rhythm”.
Christian Psychology Perspective on the Impact of Sunlight on Mental Health
When God brings healing into our lives, oftentimes it is like the morning sun. You may not notice its effects at first, but as time goes on you start to notice the shift. Today’s verse paints a beautiful image on how God brings restoration to our lives. We will often pray for quick answers but the healing that God brings is like the morning rays. It is slow, steady, and consistent. But the same as the sunrise we don’t have to wonder if healing will come. We simply just have to wait for the sun to rise, just as we must wait for God’s healing. So as we wait for the sun to rise, we can find peace in knowing God’s promises will also be fulfilled.
7 Mental Health Facts About the Sun
Getting outside for just ten minutes in the morning tells your brain it’s time to wake up. This early natural light actually boosts your serotonin, which helps you feel a lot calmer throughout the day.
Your body relies on an internal clock to know when to rest and when to be alert. Catching some sun during the day keeps this rhythm on track so you can actually sleep well at night.
When we feel overwhelmed or sad, our first instinct is usually to hide away in a dark room. Pushing yourself to just step onto the porch for a few minutes can gently break that cycle of isolation.
Taking a moment to soak in nature is a completely free way to calm down a stressed nervous system. Just feeling the sun on your face sends a signal to your body that it is safe to relax.
Emotional healing almost never happens overnight, and that is completely okay. Just like watching a sunrise, getting better is a slow, steady process that requires a little bit of patience.
You don’t need to go on a massive hike to get the mental health benefits of the outdoors. Simply opening up your window blinds to let the morning light in is a fantastic first step.
Waiting for a dark season of life to pass can feel really heavy and discouraging. Sitting quietly in the morning sun is a great physical reminder that brighter, warmer days are still ahead.
Reflection Question
When you feel stuck in a dark season how can you remind yourself to be patient and look for the slow steady healing of a sunrise instead of a quick fix?
Prayer
Dear God, I confess that when life gets dark, I want You to fix everything instantly. I get impatient with the slow process of healing. Thank You for the promise that Your righteousness and comfort rise like the sun. Please help me to trust Your timing. Give me the courage to open the blinds, step into the light, and accept the slow, warm, and steady healing You are bringing into my life today. Amen.
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Closing Thoughts
I hope today’s blog post was not only educational but also helped you draw closer to God. If you or someone you know struggling to find peace and want guidance, please connect with a therapist today! Check out TherapyforChristians.com to get connected with a faith-based provider in your area!
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Disclaimer
Educational and Spiritual Support Only: I am not your therapist. The information provided on this blog—including book recommendations, worksheets, biblical insights, coping skills, or any other content on this blog—is for educational, informational, and spiritual encouragement purposes only. No Professional Relationship Interacting with this content, including leaving comments or sending direct messages, does not create a therapist-client relationship. This blog is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Seek Professional Help: Always seek the advice of your physician or a licensed mental health provider regarding any medical or psychological condition. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here. If you are in a crisis, please contact your local emergency services or a crisis hotline you all have the best and most blessed day!
I can start opening up the blinds and my heart to understand I do not work on my time but His. His perfect plan will always prevail. Even in death, sorrow and pain. I have to trust His holy plans.
I learned from a doctor that God created man to work outside. That means that our bodies would be absorbing sunlight and turning it into Vitamin D, and important vitamin for our mental well-being.
Overtime, our lives and work have shifted to working inside and not absorbing enough Vitamin D. I learned that most people, especially with Depression, are Vitamin D deficient. (Always get this checked with lab work through your doctor.) I had my levels checked and sure enough, I was low. Starting a Vitamin D supplement helped, but intentionally getting outside and enjoying God’s creation was a game changer!