Spring Equinox: Why Being In the sun is so Important

As the Spring Equinox hits this March, the sun is finally starting to make an appearance. Being in the sun is one of the most important things you can do for your body. With Vitamin D being one of the most simple yet vital vitamins for humans, not only does sunshine raise endorphins and energy levels, but it also boosts your mood. 

So what exactly does vitamin D do for you? Not only does it support your bone health by improving the way your body absorbs calcium, as well as muscle, but it also helps regulate your blood pressure. If you ever feel a cold coming on, go sit for 20 minutes in the sun. This is because the sun boosts your immune system, helping you fight off colds and extreme fatigue. Many people work best in the sun because it keeps your brain working and blood vessels healthy. 

While you can buy supplements for Vitamin D, nothing can quite replicate the effects of the sun. Have you ever wondered why people in cloudy, cold, and rainy states are so depressed? It's because of the lack of sunlight. Medical News Today stated, “Researchers have noted a link between exposure to the sun and lower blood pressure levels, with reduced death rates from cardiovascular issues. They suggest that exposure to sunlight triggers the skin to release stores of nitrogen oxides, which cause arteries to dilate, lowering blood pressure, and may reduce the impact of metabolic syndrome.”

If you live in a state with cloudiness, you may have to resort to a Vitamin D supplement, but it's essential to get some form of it in your body. You can start by keeping your windows open on sunny days, pulling back the curtains to let the sun fill the area you're spending your time in. 

The park is a great place to not only soak up the sunlight, but also a place to meet friends. There are yoga groups and meditation classes that take place outside just for the usage of the sun. Going for a run in the sun or even a walk can improve your day in seconds. 

There are many reasons why you should get sun daily. With the health benefits Vitamin D provides, there is no reason why someone shouldn't soak up the sun on a daily basis. Most importantly though, make sure you stay hydrated, wear your sunscreen, and keep food in your stomach so you treat your body with the love it deserves! So go outside this spring and get your Vitamin D to help improve your health and life.

Kayleigh Reid '25

Kayleigh Reid is a senior in her fourth year with ND Journalism, and the print newspaper's Editor-In-Chief. She enjoys reading, running, and going on hikes in the mountains. She plans on majoring in journalism in college and excited to write more articles for everyone. Her favorite things are matcha, true crime, and going for a nice run in the evening.

Previous
Previous

Spring Equinox: Punxsutawney Phil: Groundhog Prodigy or Faux?

Next
Next

How Sports Psychology Shapes Champions