MUNCIE, Ind — (NewsLink) The past few weeks the weather has been slowly changing from the frigid winter to a breezy and sunny spring. More people are out and about enjoying the sun that was hidden most days during the winter. Some students have found that this weather change has helped them in their everyday lives.

“I definitely feel more motivated because I can do more outside. I feel more energized. I feel more motivated,” Ball State senior Reggie Mables said. 

According to Healthline.com, exposure to the sun increases the brains release of the hormone serotonin. Explaining why during the winter, when the days are shorter, seasonal mood differences can be seen. Outside activities are common among people, and those who enjoy them really lose those in the winter months. Ball State sophomore Allison Jester loses her favorite activity during these months.

“I like to go hunting for random things outside, like stuff to make projects with and in the winter, I don’t get to do that as much and it’s sad,” Jester said.

Not being able to do activities where you can go out and get some fresh air is bad for one’s health, but not getting sunlight can chemically harm your brain function, leaving one less motivated and with lower moods. Senior psychology student Hope Wood shared her insight into the topic.

“That cold weather can really have an effect on your mood. Especially if you’re not getting enough sun intake. There’s a lot of science behind spending time outside, so obviously in the summer when you’re out and about outside you’re getting more of the vitamins you may need that you can soak up from the sun,” Wood said.

We may have only been given a sneak peek at the good weather and sunshine to come, but soaking it up when you can has the potential to help out your brain.

Contact Kara Porzuczek with comments at kmporzuczek@bsu.edu.

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