Grateful for daylight saving…let’s make the most of it!

Hurrah! The clocks have changed! We are gifted with longer, brighter days. The darker, colder months are behind us, and it's time to embrace the warmth and light that spring and summer bring (maybe blind optimism re ‘warmth’ here in the UK)

Why should we be grateful for the lighter nights, and how we can make the most of this time to improve our well-being and happiness.

Firstly, let's look at the evidence. Studies have shown that exposure to natural light is essential for our physical and mental health. Exposure to natural light has been shown to improve sleep quality, reduce symptoms of depression, and boost our immune system. Light exposure also regulates our circadian rhythms, which helps us to feel alert and energized during the day, and more relaxed in the evening, aiding sleep.

As the days get longer, we have more opportunities to expose ourselves to natural light. Longer days mean we can spend more time outside, enjoying the sunshine and fresh air. Exposure to natural light triggers the production of vitamin D, which is essential for our bone health, and helps to reduce the risk of certain diseases.

Spending time outside also boosts our mood and reduces stress. Studies have shown that spending just 20 minutes outside can improve our mood and reduce symptoms of depression. Furthermore, being outside and enjoying nature has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety levels.

But how can we make the most of the lighter nights?

Get outside

Take advantage of the lighter evenings by spending time outside. Go for a walk, cycle, or run after work. Meet up with friends in a park or outdoor space. Spend time in your garden or balcony. Whatever it is, try to spend as much time as possible outside, and soak up the natural light.

Enjoy nature

Spending time in nature has numerous benefits for our physical and mental health. Studies have shown that being in nature reduces stress, improves mood, and boosts creativity. So, take advantage of the lighter nights and spend time in green spaces. Visit a local park, go for a hike, or spend time by the beach.

Exercise

Regular exercise is essential for our physical and mental health. The lighter nights provide us with more opportunities to exercise outside, whether it's going for a run or a bike ride. Exercise has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve our mood, and boost our immune system. So, take advantage of the lighter nights and get moving.

Socialise

The lighter evenings provide us with more opportunities to socialise with friends and family. Meet up for a picnic, BBQ, or drinks in an outdoor space. Socialising has numerous benefits for our mental health, including reducing stress and improving our mood. So, take advantage of the lighter nights and catch up with loved ones.

Prioritize sleep

While the lighter evenings can be tempting to stay up late, it's important to prioritise sleep. A good night's sleep is essential for our physical and mental health. Exposure to natural light during the day helps to regulate our circadian rhythms, which aids sleep. So, make sure to establish a regular sleep routine and stick to it, even as the nights get lighter.

As the clocks change and the days get longer, we have more opportunities to enjoy the natural light and improve our well-being. From spending time outside, enjoying nature, exercising, socializing, and prioritizing sleep, there are many ways to make the most of the lighter nights. So, let's embrace the warmth and light that spring and summer bring, and be grateful for the numerous benefits they provide us.