

Trials and Tribulations

Stuart Mabbutt | Wildlife Gardening Specialist

Too much of the sun can be harmful to our skin, but with care and balance it can lift our mood out there in wildlife gardening land. The sun can be the kiss of life or death. It depends on the way we use it.

Exposure to sunlight means the brain perhaps starts to release serotonin. This can lead us to feel calm and focused. Without sunlight, our collective serotonin levels can dip.

A number of health benefits associated to exposure to sunlight can also benefit those suffering from depression according to the Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience. Anxiety and panic attacks have been linked with changing seasons and reduced sunlight. So what better reason to be getting out there and enjoying nature? In our own gardens, streets or park.

Even the Stone Age people knew the sun brought many healing qualities which is maybe why they worshipped it?

If you suffer from insomnia daytime exposure to sunlight increases melatonin production during the night which in turn helps us sleep. I personally find the sun rays also ease my swollen joints during peaks of inflammation from Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Whether you garden traditionally or with wildlife in mind, remember, care and balance is what’s needed when enjoying the sun’s rays. Stay safe out there though.

Happy Gardening