Warm weather often leads to an uplift in people’s mood.
There are numerous reasons for this, many of which are indirectly linked to the season, such as increased opportunities for socializing and more chances to travel compared to colder months.
A significant contributor to the summer mood elevation is sunlight, which boosts the production of serotonin, a natural mood enhancer in the body.
EXPLORE SUMMER VACATION IDEAS BEFORE TIME RUNS OUT: HERE ARE 6 GREAT DESTINATIONS TO THINK ABOUT
Continue reading to discover five factors that contribute to enhanced happiness in the summer, along with tips for maintaining positive feelings during the colder months.
- The sun enhances mood
- Increased outdoor time
- Enhanced social interactions
- More traveling and vacations
- Longer days
More sunlight, opportunities for travel, and time spent with others all contribute to elevated summer moods. (iStock)
1. The sun enhances mood
Simply being in the sun brings happiness.
Research suggests that sunlight may increase serotonin release in the brain, a hormone linked to improving mood and inducing feelings of calmness, according to Healthline.
During the summer, we tend to spend extensive hours outdoors, unlike winter when we often remain indoors.
NEED TO STAY HYDRATED? THESE 4 FOODS CAN HELP YOU KEEP YOUR WATER INTAKE UP ON HOT SUMMER DAYS
In winter, many face seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that occurs with seasonal shifts. Symptoms typically begin in the fall and persist into winter, as noted by the National Institute of Mental Health.
The precise causes of SAD remain unclear, but reduced sunlight may disrupt your body’s internal clock and serotonin levels, contributing to its onset.
Spending more time outdoors in the sun can have a substantial impact on our mood—something that those living in regions without year-round sunshine often miss out on.
Exposure to sunlight is known to boost serotonin levels in the brain, serving as a natural mood enhancer. (iStock)
While enjoying sunny days, remember to apply sunscreen regularly to protect your skin.
To counteract the lack of sunlight during winter, consider taking up enjoyable outdoor winter activities such as skiing or snowshoeing.
2. Increased outdoor time
Summer invites us to spend considerably more time outdoors and connected with nature.
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER
There are numerous outdoor activities available in the summer, such as beach outings, pool time, meals at outdoor cafes, attending open-air concerts, and much more.
In contrast, winter often limits our activity options, pushing most fun into indoor spaces.
Summertime generally means more outdoor activities, which can enhance overall happiness during warm months compared to the cold weather. (iStock)
3. Abundant social interactions
Summer is a season of social events.
With celebrations such as Memorial Day, Independence Day, summer birthdays, weddings, barbecues, pool gatherings, and casual get-togethers, we tend to find ourselves among friends and family during this time.
This vibrant social scene is likely to elevate our moods and make summer truly enjoyable.
For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews.com/lifestyle
In winter, feelings of loneliness and isolation can become prevalent.
Combat this by scheduling social events regularly, whether it’s a game night or a movie marathon, to help stave off those winter doldrums.
4. Increased traveling and vacations
Summer is a popular time for vacationing and travel, providing a well-deserved lift to spirits.
Summer is a great time for vacations, generating excitement and joy even before the trip starts. (iStock)
Vacations offer a chance to break the routine of the workweek, allowing for something to eagerly anticipate and cherish.
If feasible, consider scheduling a winter vacation, particularly if you’re feeling down and longing for warmer weather.
Additionally, traveling in winter often means fewer crowds compared to the summer peak travel season.
To maintain that summer spirit year-round, think about arranging a winter trip to look forward to following the summer’s end.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
This plan can help keeps spirits uplifted well after summer concludes, as you’ll have a delightful getaway to anticipate.
5. Days are longer
Summer brings the longest days of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.
During winter, the dark mornings can make it challenging to get out of bed. The reduced daylight in colder months often leads to drowsiness and the illusion that it’s later than it is.
Make the most of the extended daylight in summer by enjoying outdoor activities in the evenings when winter would be dark.
Summer generally brings the longest days of the year. Make the most of these extended hours by discovering new outdoor activities to enjoy. (iStock)
Enjoy bonfires with friends, engage in refreshing evening swims, or listen to live music at an open-air restaurant.
To maximize sunlight exposure in winter, pull open your blinds early in the morning, partake in outdoor winter activities, and maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise to prevent winter fatigue.
