The Mindful Mom

Spending time outdoors in the morning light offers a wealth of benefits for kids, enhancing their well-being, mindfulness, and overall productivity throughout the day. Let’s learn to apply these advantages: I often make a fresh cup of coffee and begin the morning light exposure by stepping outside with my coffee and by encouraging my kids to walk outside with me with their water bottles or fresh squeezed juice.

1. Natural Light and Vitamin D:

   Morning sunlight provides a rich source of vitamin D, essential for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. Exposure to sunlight triggers the skin to produce vitamin D, which positively impacts children’s physical and mental health.

2. Enhanced Mood and Emotional Well-Being:

   Sunlight stimulates the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with happiness and relaxation. Children who start their day in natural light often experience improved mood, reduced anxiety, and increased resilience.

3. Circadian Rhythm Alignment:

  Exposure to morning light helps regulate the body’s internal clock (circadian rhythm). It signals wakefulness and alertness, promoting better sleep patterns at night. When kids’ circadian rhythms are in sync, they feel more balanced and focused.

4. Mindfulness and Connection to Nature:

   Being outdoors encourages mindfulness. Children can observe the changing colors of the sky, feel the breeze, and listen to birdsong. These sensory experiences ground them in the present moment, fostering mindfulness and gratitude.

5. Stress Reduction and Calmness:

  Morning light has a calming effect on the nervous system. It reduces cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and promotes relaxation. Kids who spend time outside in the morning tend to handle stress better throughout the day.

6. Boosted Cognitive Function:

   Exposure to natural light enhances cognitive performance. It improves attention span, memory, and creativity. Kids who start their day with sunlight are more alert and receptive to learning.

7. Physical Activity and Play:

   Morning light encourages physical activity. Whether it’s playing tag, riding bikes, or exploring the garden, kids engage in active play. Movement in natural light supports healthy development and energy levels.

8. Connection to Seasonal Changes:

   Observing the sunrise and noticing seasonal shifts fosters curiosity. Kids learn about the Earth’s rotation, weather patterns, and the beauty of nature. This connection to the natural world enriches their understanding.

9. Positive Habits and Routine:

   Establishing a morning routine that includes outdoor time sets a positive tone for the day. It becomes a habit, reinforcing consistency and stability.

10. Productivity and Focus:

    Morning light kick starts the brain. Exposure to blue light (present in sunlight) boosts alertness and concentration. Kids who begin their day with natural light tend to be more focused and productive. The lovely aspect of this routine is that I would teach my kids to find those rays of light even on rainy and cloudy days. It became a life lesson to always look for the other side of a gloomy situation. Even the act of doing that becomes the habit of doing that.

Stepping outside into the morning light isn’t just about physical health, it’s an investment in emotional well-being, mindfulness, and a productive day ahead. Encourage your kids to embrace this simple yet powerful practice!