How does our brain balance with light?

Why do you feel better when the morning sun hits your face? Do you think it's a coincidence that you shrink on closed, gray days? The answer to these questions is hidden in a vast biological system that extends from our body clock to the neurotransmitters that affect our mood.

Daylight is a powerful factor that illuminates not only our environment, but also our mood. In particular, it has been scientifically shown to have a direct effect on serotonin levels in the brain. In this article, we discuss the daylight–serotonin relationship and its effects on our mood.

Sunlight How Does Sunlight Affect the Brain?

Natural light entering the retina of the eye reaches the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), the region responsible for the biological clock of our brain. This region regulates our circadian rhythm, that is, our sleep-wake cycle, hormone release and the body's energy level (Czeisler et al., 1999).

The fact that light stimulates this center and allows the body to switch to "daytime mode" is critical for both mental and physical alertness.

What is Serotonin and How Is It Related to Our Mood?

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter in our brain and nervous system that affects mood, appetite, sleep, memory and learning. It is known that low serotonin levels are especially closely associated with depression and anxiety disorders.

How Does Daylight Affect Serotonin?

a Dec 2002 study showed that there is a direct relationship between daylight exposure and brain serotonin levels. December. According to research, serotonin production is higher in bright sunlight (Lambert et al., 2002).

Daylight suppresses serotonin transporters (serotonin transporter – SERT), allowing serotonin molecules to stay at synapses for longer. This, in turn, can positively affect an individual's mood, just like some antidepressants do.

What Happens In the Dark?

Especially in autumn and winter, the decrease in daylight can reduce serotonin production. These hormonal changes can manifest themselves in an individual with symptoms such as low energy, increased sleep, reluctance and depression.

 How Can You Benefit Spiritually From the Sun?

• Spend time in the daylight: Being outside for at least 20-30 minutes a day supports serotonin production.
• Prefer Morning light: Getting daylight early in the morning regulates your circadian rhythm.
• Brighten up the environment you are in: Keeping the windows open, letting light in can directly affect your mood.
•  Do outdoor sports: Walking outdoors contributes to both your physical and mental health.

Daylight not only invigorates nature, but also our mood. It supports us to cope with depression and emotional fluctuations by increasing serotonin levels in natural ways. Even when the day starts with darkness or ends early, it is possible to cope with these biological effects with small changes.

If you feel more sensitive, emotional or reluctant during the seasonal transitions, knowing that this has a biological basis and getting support if necessary is an important step in terms of your mental balance.