Outside Morning Sun for Circadian Rhythm Balance

Good morning, sunshine! I’m Dr. Jill Crista, author of A Light in the Dark for PANDAS & PANS, where I share powerful tools to support the overwhelmed nervous system, like this joyful daily practice: morning sun to kickstart your day/

It’s a game-changer for your circadian rhythm, nervous system, and overall well-being. Ready to say “wakey wakey, eggs and bakey” and head into your day with a smile? Let’s dive into why morning sun is your new best friend!

Why Morning Sun Boosts Your Health

I love a playful wake-up call like “get your buns out of bed, get outside!” But there’s serious science behind this habit.

Morning sunlight resets your body’s internal clock and soothes your nervous system, which, let’s be honest, have been under attack lately. Here’s why it matters:

Circadian Rhythm Reset: Natural light in the morning aligns your sleep-wake cycle, boosting energy and mood.
Nervous System Nourishment: Sun exposure calms your stress response, helping you heal from modern-day overload.
Mold Recovery Support: A balanced circadian rhythm supports detox, crucial for those fighting mold.

Morning light is one of the first recovery tools I recommend in A Light in the Dark for PANDAS & PANS because it helps reset the body when it’s been thrown off by infections, toxins, or stress, especially in sensitive kids and adults.

Four Benefits of Starting Your Day Outside

Just 20 minutes of morning sun can transform your health. Here are four key benefits, backed by research (DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2019.1577368):

Regulates Circadian Rhythm: Exposure to natural light is essential for regulating your circadian rhythm, improving sleep quality, energy, and alertness all day.
Supports Healthy Lungs: Fresh air can have a positive impact on your respiratory system, key for mold-sick folks with breathing challenges.
Calms Your Mind: Nature has a calming effect on our minds and bodies, reducing anxiety and setting a positive tone for your day.
Fosters Gratitude: Morning sun helps you appreciate the beauty and wonders of the world, boosting mindfulness and nervous system healing.

These are the kinds of daily, doable steps I outline in A Light in the Dark for PANDAS & PANS, because healing doesn’t need to be overwhelming.

How to Make Morning Sun a Habit

I’m all about making it fun: start your day with a sweet phrase, with a smile, and a little bit of sunshine on your face. Here’s how to get started:

Wake Up Early: Use a playful wake-up phrase like “rise and shine” or “top of the morning” to get moving.
Step Outside: Spend 20 minutes outside, even just sitting on your porch or walking around your yard.
No Sunglasses: Let natural light hit your eyes (but avoid staring directly at the sun).
Pair with Movement: Stretch, walk, or sip tea while soaking up the sun for extra benefits.
Consistency Counts: Make it a daily ritual, even on cloudy days, to keep your circadian rhythm steady.

These small routines are core to the healing protocols in A Light in the Dark for PANDAS & PANS, because the nervous system heals through rhythm, not rush.

Tips for Nervous System Healing

Morning sun is a powerful step, here’s how to support your nervous system alongside your sun habit:

Breathe Fresh Air: Pair sun time with deep breathing to oxygenate your body and calm stress.
Ground Yourself: Walk barefoot on grass to connect with nature and reduce nervous system overload.
Soothe the System: Support mold detox by incorporating gentle aids like sipping on Holy Basil tea for a mood lift and gentle antifungal properties.
Work with a Pro: Consult a mold-literate doctor for personalized care, like those listed at NAEM and ISEAI.
Avoid Mold: Keep your home dry to reduce nervous system triggers.

All of these techniques reflect the nervous system-first approach I teach in A Light in the Dark for PANDAS & PANS, especially for those navigating mold, infections, and emotional stress.

You’re Ready to Greet the Sun!

Start your day with 20 minutes of morning sun to reset your circadian rhythm, calm your nervous system, and support mold recovery. Say “look alive,” step outside, and let nature work its magic.

Pair it with nervous system support tools like those in A Light in the Dark for PANDAS & PANS, from gentle detox to emotional regulation. Save this guide and share it with someone ready to heal in the light.

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Disclaimer This content is health information and not intended as personal medical advice. Viewing will not establish a doctor-patient relationship. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. The information discussed is not intended to replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Reliance on information provided by Dr. Jill Crista, employees, or others appearing at the invitation of Dr. Crista is solely at your own risk.