Benefits of Sun Exposure for Women Who WFH

In the age of remote work, many women have traded daily commutes and office cubicles for the comfort of home. While this shift offers undeniable conveniences – no traffic, flexible hours, cozy work attire, more hours with kids and pets – it also brings an unintended side effect: significantly reduced sun exposure. Stepping outside for regular doses of sunshine can be a powerful, natural boost to both mental and physical health. Here are some of the benefits of sun exposure and how you can get them while working from home.

One of the main benefits of sun exposure is vitamin D, a crucial nutrient that supports bone health, immune function, and hormone regulation. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to sunbathe to get your recommended dosage. Exactly how much sunlight do you need a day? Five to 10 minutes of midday sunlight a few times a week is often enough to maintain healthy levels.

However, studies published in the BMC Public Health journal show that people who spend most of their time indoors, including remote workers, are at higher risk of vitamin D deficiency, which may be more pronounced for women. Hormonal fluctuations, especially during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, can impact vitamin D metabolism. Getting adequate sunlight helps balance this, promoting better energy levels and mood stability.

Natural light is also essential for regulating circadian rhythms – your body’s internal clock that controls sleep-wake cycles. Poor exposure to daylight can throw off these rhythms, leading to insomnia, fatigue, and even depression. This is because sunlight stimulates the release of serotonin, the “feel-good” hormone that helps regulate mood and focus.

Remote workers who often find themselves working odd hours or rarely leave the house during daylight can develop seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or low-grade depression over time, even in sunny climates. A simple 15-minute walk in the sun before your first video call can do wonders for your mood and overall well-being. More effective than a third cup of coffee!

Aside from boosting your immune system and happy hormones, moderate sun exposure can also improve skin health by reducing inflammatory responses. It can help with acne, psoriasis, and eczema, which is why new therapies that have the effects of UV light (but not its dangers) are sometimes recommended for these conditions.

Of course, this doesn’t mean you get to bask in the sun unprotected. Sunscreen is still non-negotiable, as prolonged exposure to UV rays does more harm than good. Make sure you slather on some sunscreen daily, even indoors! Use POND'S UV Hydrate Sunscreen to keep your skin plump and hydrated, or POND'S UV Bright Sunscreen to boost radiance over time. Both are broad-spectrum SPF 50 formulas that protect the skin from the damaging effects of UV rays.

Creating a routine that incorporates some outside time can help you reap the benefits of sun exposure if you’re working from home. Here are some things you can do:

• Morning walks. Start your day with a few minutes of sunlight before turning on your screen. Getting a few steps in can be energizing and may even boost your mood.
• Take calls outside. Got a long meeting? Step into the backyard or balcony, or walk around a nearby park, provided it’s quiet.
• Work near a window. Natural light from a sunny spot indoors can help regulate circadian rhythms. Looking out once in a while is also good for your eyesight!
• Get some lunchtime sunlight. Make plans to eat lunch outside at least once a week, even if it’s just on your doorstep.
• Schedule some outside time. Use reminders to step outside and stretch briefly every few hours. This helps your posture and circulation, too.

Tomorrow morning, before you reach for your laptop, step outside. Let the sunlight kiss your skin and enjoy the benefits of sun exposure. Your body and your mind will thank you.