A Simple Way to Lower Stress and Sharpen Memory, According to Scientists

How Natural Light Cycles Affect Your Well-Being

According to НВ — Техно: Watching natural light cycles-especially sunrises and sunsets-can benefit both mental and physical health. Research shows that the sense of awe triggered by these events may reduce anxiety, improve memory, and lower stress levels. This connection between nature and cognitive function has gained increasing attention in recent years.

In one study analyzing responses from over 2,500 participants viewing images of natural settings, sunrises and sunsets stood out as powerful awe-inducing scenes. In a separate experiment led by Shiota, participants who watched an awe-inspiring film demonstrated significantly better information recall. This suggests that regularly experiencing awe could positively influence cognitive abilities, particularly memory.

The same research found that repeated awe experiences helped reduce both acute and chronic stress during the Covid-19 pandemic. In one trial, a group of older adults intentionally sought out moments of awe during short weekly walks; after eight weeks, their responses became noticeably more descriptive. Another study involving 200 people, conducted by Stellar, revealed that those who frequently felt positive emotions like joy and awe had consistently lower levels of cytokines-markers of inflammation in the body. Chronically high levels of these markers are linked to a greater risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and depression.

Regulating Circadian Rhythms Through Natural Light

Regularly observing sunlight cycles helps regulate the body’s circadian rhythm and improves sleep quality. Sunrise naturally triggers cortisol production and kickstarts serotonin release. Cortisol levels typically rise about 30 minutes after waking. Disruptions to the circadian rhythm have been associated with higher risks of depression and anxiety, notes Mariana Figueiro.

A 2024 study found that artificial LED lighting designed to mimic the diffuse hues of sunrise and sunset significantly helped regulate people’s circadian rhythms. This highlights the importance of natural light for maintaining both mental and physical well-being.

It’s great for mental health because we realize that some of what causes us so much suffering isn’t actually that important. Michelle Shiota

In short, regularly observing natural light cycles can be a simple yet effective way to improve overall health and quality of life.

Given these findings, the practice of watching natural light cycles may be especially valuable in modern life, where stress and anxiety are common. It could inspire new strategies for boosting mental health-such as taking regular walks outdoors and consciously appreciating natural phenomena. Simple changes in daily habits, then, can have a positive impact on people’s overall well-being.

While the benefits of natural light on mental health are becoming clearer, it's essential to consider how exposure to light at different times can impact physical health as well. For instance, recent research indicates that evening exposure to bright light significantly increases the risk of glaucoma. Understanding these nuances can help individuals optimize their light exposure for both mental well-being and eye health.