Huberman Says! View Morning and Afternoon Sunlight for Health

As I hinted about in my September newsletter, I’ve been following Andrew Huberman’s protocols for using morning and afternoon sunlight to support mental and physical health, improve sleep and regulate circadian rhythms. 

If you don’t know, Andrew Huberman, Ph.D., is a neuroscientist and tenured professor in the department of neurobiology at Stanford School of Medicine and hosts the very popular and well respected Huberman Lab podcast. 

I’ve been pleasantly surprised at its effectiveness and simplicity. The “rules” are easy. Get 5-10 minutes of natural sunlight on your face without wearing sunglasses in the morning and again in the afternoon. There’s a host of benefits Huberman deep dives into in his podcast including better mood, improved sleep, hormone regulation and stress reduction. I’ve found establishing an afternoon practice especially helpful. I struggle with transitioning away from work time into personal time before dinner and establishing a habit of sitting outside in the sun reading a book not only gives me opportunity for sunlight but it signals the start of personal time and allows me time to read. Triple bonus!

A few things to note that Huberman explains (and folks have asked). NO, DON’T STARE DIRECTLY INTO THE SUN! You simply are outside ideally facing the sun. If you wear glasses or contacts that’s cool. Don’t wear sunglasses or blue blockers. Yes, this works even on overcast days. No, it doesn’t work through a windshield or through a window; get outside! Yes, wear SPF.  

Since starting this a few weeks ago I have certainly noticed more consistent sleep and less anxiety. And it’s an enjoyable, sustainable and FREE practice backed by compelling research and expert recommendation. It’s a no brainer!