Sunlight exposure affects mood, learning, energy levels, focus, sleep, mental health, and intellect. It controls the body’s circadian system, which regulates your sleep/wake cycle, hormones, body temperature, and more. By controlling this system, sunlight holds potential benefits for people with Parkinson’s disease. It can help ease pain, improve sleep, reduce depression, and shorten the length of hospital stays.
The benefits of sunlight can be traced to 3 key components: UV light, vitamin D, and serotonin.
UV Light
The sun’s UV (ultraviolet) light is absorbed through your eyes and keeps your sleep/wake cycle on track. It can also trigger the release of dopamine. This may help fight the low dopamine levels found in the brains of people with Parkinson’s.
Vitamin D
People with Parkinson’s also often have low levels of vitamin D. Studies show that vitamin D may have effects on Parkinson’s symptoms, such as falls or poor balance, and perhaps even the risk of disease development and progression.
Serotonin
People with Parkinson’s may experience anxiety or depression. Serotonin, a natural mood booster, has been shown to fight these symptoms and others, including tiredness and poor sleep.
Did you know the World Health Organization reported that getting just 15 minutes of natural sunlight each day can reduce stress and anxiety? A hike in the woods, sunbathing at the beach, or a walk around your neighborhood park will do the trick.
