There are a lot of simple, effective ways you can improve your happy hormones feelings of happiness. A lot of people aren’t aware of the massive impact these habits have. They provide that glimmer of hope to spark change. Lets take a look at one of those super simple habits.
Go get morning light!
Just 15-30 minutes of morning light exposure is a game changer…
And the benefits are countless:
- Improve sleep disturbances
- Sets your natural wake & sleep clock (your circadian rhythm)
- Improved Mood
- Increases serotonin levels (the happy hormone)
- Boosts Energy
- Signals your body to produce cortisol later in the day and improve energy levels.
- Keep in mind, this cortisol regulation, in turn, helps the body to lower cortisol in the morning.
- Signals your body to produce cortisol later in the day and improve energy levels.
- Enhance Cognitive Function
- Supports brain functions like learning, memory consolidation, and problem-solving by improving the sleep you get at night.
- WebMD and the the National Institute of Health both have multiple studies published that show those who are exposed to morning light show up to a 79% increase in cognitive function.
- Supports brain functions like learning, memory consolidation, and problem-solving by improving the sleep you get at night.
- Reducing Chronic Pain
- By sleeping better, your body can engage in autophagy (the breakdown of slough and dead cells) while you sleep. This and more serotonin reduce inflammation, and pain.
- Reduces Stress Levels
- Once again, serotonin and sleep.
https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/features/morning-light-better-sleep
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36058557
https://psychiatry.arizona.edu/news/higher-dose-morning-light-will-change-your-life
YOU can feel these benefits from just 15-30 minutes outside each morning.
It’s easy to do. Here are a couple ideas:
- Eat breakfast outside.
- Open your car window on the way to work.
- Take a walk or exercise outside first thing in the morning.
I challenge you this week to get outside 4-5 times a week for 15-30 minutes and see how you feel. I would love to know how it goes for you so feel free to leave a comment or reach out!