Natural sunlight is one of the most sought-after features in a home or office. As animals who once lived our entire lives under our closest star, humans, without realizing it, are drawn to the natural magnetism of the sun’s rays. However, many of us are unaware of the science that supports our fascination. It may be impossible for us to recognize its power as we go about our daily lives but studying the sun can show how natural light improves your health.

Boosts Vitamin D

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that prevents bone loss and reduces the risk of heart disease, weight gain, and several cancers. When people are exposed to sunlight, their skin absorbs vitamin D, which is how it earned the nickname the “sunshine vitamin.”

Vitamin D is available to humans both indoors and outdoors. Witamin D can be absorbed wherever sunlight can be found, whether it’s in an open field or a naturally lit home office. If a home designer wants to optimize their exposure to vitamin D, large windows or sunroofs that let in natural light can make all the difference.

Fights Against Seasonal Depression

Every fall and winter, a portion of the population experiences seasonal affective disorder or major depressive disorder. As the name suggests, once the colder, darker months of the year emerge, more people fall into a depressive cycle of self-doubt and despondency.

By exposing your body to as much sunlight as you can during those difficult months, you will see how natural light improves your health. Natural light has been linked to enhanced moods. People with seasonal depression should consider living spaces that offer more sunlight. They may not realize it, but those small changes could have a major impact on their mental health.

Improves Sleep

Mental health and sleep are closely linked. Research tells us that when your mind is less cluttered and depressed, you’re more likely to sleep soundly. Therefore, exposing yourself to natural light, whether that be outside or inside, can have a tremendous effect on your ability to turn in at the end of the day.