Look out the window: do you see the sun shining brightly onto the green grass? This is just one of many signs the summer months are within reach. With summer approaching, you may notice a shift in your overall mood. We all feel a certain weight has been lifted off our shoulders when the weather begins to warm up (and it’s not just the lack of weight from thick winter jackets!). There is a direct correlation between summer weather and a better state of mind.
Firstly, summer means longer days and brighter sunlight, so there’s more time to enjoy everything these months have to offer. These extended hours of sunlight give us more vitamin D, a nutrient that helps with the absorption of calcium and phosphorus. Vitamin D, also known as the “sunshine vitamin”, raises our energy levels, making us feel happier and less tired. A large percentage of Canadians ages 12-19 receive below the recommended amount of vitamin D, classified as almost vitamin D deficient. Vitamin D deficiency symptoms include fatigue, muscle weakness, and depression. Being outside during the summer months is a way to regain the vitamin D we’ve been missing during winter. It helps not only brighten our backyards, but our own moods.
According to research from the University of Michigan, warm and sunny weather can improve attitude, memory, and provide openness to creative thoughts and new information. Their findings suggested that two crucial variables affect mood: how much time you spend outside and what season it is. If an individual usually spends a good amount of time outside, and the season has changed from winter to summer, a noticeable change can occur. In one study, participants across the United States were randomly assigned to be outdoors during warm, sunny days. The results showed that these individuals had an improved mood and memory, compared to those who were outside during poor weather and those who stayed indoors. Interestingly, the researchers also found the ideal temperature for people to be 72 degrees Fahrenheit, or about 22 degrees Celsius. It was concluded that for weather to improve mood, one needs to spend at least 30 minutes outside in warm weather per day. Individuals who stay indoors when the weather is nice outside experience a decrease in overall mood, and a narrowed cognitive style.
Thirdly, the pleasant weather during summer provides incentive to be more physically active. Whether this involves going for walks, bike rides, playing sports, or working out, an increase in temperature makes it both easier and more enjoyable to get outside and move. Especially in milder summer temperatures, people tend to express feelings of joy and optimism. With the provincial restrictions beginning to loosen as well, we are able to inch even closer to normal. There is no doubt that previously negative moods, in large part due to the cold weather and lengthy lockdowns, will begin to shift this summer due to the warm weather. So when you look outside to see the green grass and shining sun, remember to enjoy the mental benefits that come with this lovely time of year!
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