Dana Gambrill
21 Mar 2023
There’s something special about the first light of day. It’s not just a beautiful sight—it’s a powerful way to improve your well-being, inside and out. But how does it actually work, and why is it so beneficial?
When we talk about the first light of day, we're referring to the sunlight that hits the earth in the early morning hours. This light is rich in blue wavelengths, which play a key role in resetting our internal clocks, or circadian rhythms. These rhythms help regulate our sleep-wake cycles, and exposure to morning light helps sync them with the natural day-night cycle.
As the sunlight hits our eyes, it sends signals to a part of the brain called the suprachiasmatic nucleus, which acts like the body’s master clock. This light helps to suppress melatonin, the hormone that makes us feel sleepy, and stimulates the production of cortisol, the “wake-up” hormone. This gives us a natural boost of energy and alertness to start the day.
But there’s more. Exposure to morning light also triggers the production of serotonin, the hormone responsible for regulating mood. This can have a lasting impact throughout the day, helping to reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and boost feelings of happiness and positivity.
What’s more, sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D, which plays a crucial role in bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. Just a brief amount of sunlight in the morning can help your body produce this essential nutrient.
So, whether it’s to improve your sleep cycle, boost your mood, or simply get your body moving with more energy, the first light of day offers us a wealth of benefits. It’s a natural, simple way to support your health and set a positive tone for the day ahead.
Next time the sun rises, take a moment to step outside and embrace the first light of day. Your body and mind will thank you.