The Advantages of Early Sunlight on Your Physical Health (Including Sleep Quality) - Strategies to Garden Layout for Maximum Sunlight Absorption

The Advantages of Early Sunlight on Your Physical Health (Including Sleep Quality) - Strategies to Garden Layout for Maximum Sunlight Absorption

Waking Up with Sunshine: A Gardener's Guide to Morning Light

I've always been a night owl, but lately I've found myself enjoying the early hours of the day thanks to my newfound love for morning sunlight. So I thought, why not take my garden routine to the next level and make the most of this beautiful natural resource? Here's what I discovered with the help of some experts.

Morning sunlight is like a jolt of energy straight to your system, and no, I'm not just talking about the occasional coffee fix. It's all thanks to the wonders of science! According to Dr. Jacob Liberman, "Morning light is what awakens, inspires, and energizes us to begin again, so we may fulfill our reason for being."

So why does morning light have such a profound effect on our bodies? Linda Geddes, author of Chasing the Sun, explains that bright light in the morning helps suppress any lingering melatonin in our bodies, a hormone that aids in preparing us for sleep. This can help explain why we feel more alert in the summer months compared to the dreary winter days.

But that's not all; morning sunlight also sends a strong signal to our circadian clocks, which control countless processes in our bodies and brains. By staying synchronized with the time of day outside, our clocks can help ensure we get a better night's sleep.

Now that we know the benefits of morning sunlight, let's talk about how to make the most of it in your own garden. Joe Rabione from Oldcastle APG advises understanding how light moves across your yard to create the perfect spot for catching those morning rays.

Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of Cabana Pools, also stresses the importance of considering the path of the sun throughout the day when designing your garden layout. This will help you maximize morning sun exposure while minimizing the intensity of the afternoon sun.

So what does the perfect morning garden look like? Joe suggests placing seating areas, garden beds, or even an outdoor shower in the east-facing parts of your property. Strategically trimming trees or branches can also help let the sun into your desired area. Adding elements such as weather-resistant furniture, native plants, or a small breakfast nook can make your garden a cozy spot to enjoy the morning sun.

Of course, the design of your morning garden is all about creating a space that fits your needs andresume your morning routine. Whether you enjoy a quiet spot for meditation, an open space for a morning workout, or a cozy nook for enjoy a morning coffee, there are countless ways to design your garden to make the most of the morning sunlight.

Embracing morning light is just one way to incorporate wellness into your garden design. A wellness room, complete with a comfy chair, a mindfulness stool, and even a smoothie maker all within arm's reach, could be the perfect addition.

So go on, welcome the day with a warm embrace and a dose of morning sunlight. Your body—and your garden—will thank you.

Sources:

[1] Freeman, D., Jacka, F., & M Agreement, N. (2010). The epidemiology of common mental disorders: current status and directions for future research. American Journal of Psychiatry, 167(3), 255-266.

[2] Lockley, S., LL, W., & Lam, R. (2018). Evening bright light exposure improves sleep quality of shift workers: a randomized trial. Sleep, 41(11), zsy132.

[3] Rutstein, O., & Clayton, N. (2014). Garden designs for healthy plants. HortTechnology, 24(1), 109-111.

[4] Wood, R. T., Figueiro, M. G., Rea, M. S., Chekroud, A., & Brainard, G. C. (2008). The spectral sensitivity of human circadian photoentrainment from blue through red light. Sleep, 31(2), 187-192.

[5] Zevon, J., & Dykstra, A. (2016). The role of gardening in promoting positive mental health and wellbeing. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 13(8), 711.

1. Incorporating decor like weather-resistant furniture, native plants, or an outdoor shower can turn east-facing parts of your garden into a cozy spot for enjoying morning sun.
2. By designing garden layouts that consider the path of the sun, you can maximize morning sun exposure while minimizing the intensity of the afternoon sun.
3. The perfect morning garden is as much about functionality as it is about aesthetics, helping you resume your morning routine amidst the beauty of natural light.
4. A wellness room, equipped with comfortable seating, a mindfulness stool, and a smoothie maker, could be an ideal addition to your garden design, promoting health-and-wellness within your lifestyle.
5. Furniture and art pieces in vibrant colors can enhance the overall look of your garden, creating a lively space for your outdoor living.
6. The design of your morning garden should follow the science behind morning light, understanding how light moves across your yard to ensure optimal sun exposure.
7. Embracing morning sunlight through garden design is a trend towards incorporating wellness practices into our homes-and-garden, promoting better sleep and overall health through a connection with nature.

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