Scientific studies have led us to believe seemingly contradictory things: sunlight is good for us and sunlight is bad for us. While both statements can be argued as correct, the truth lies somewhere in between. Research has found that too much exposure to harmful rays can cause things like skin cancer. However, human beings are naturally inclined to spend time in the sun for a reason. Too much time indoors, away from sunlight, can actually be harmful to our bodies and our minds. So, like with most things in life, the best course of action is to strike a balance. 

More recently, medical experts and scientists have seen proof of the effects of too little sun exposure. With more people working from home and staying inside, there is a larger percentage of vitamin D deficiency. It’s not natural to be inside all the time, and this is showing in health data and the general decline of emotional wellbeing. Fortunately, there are some methods by which people can supplement less time spent outside in order to get the same benefits as a dose of sunshine. 

After learning about far infrared therapy, many people are searching for the best infrared sauna on the market to receive the array of physical and mental health benefits. Vitamin D supplements have also become very popular purchases at the drug store. People are looking to improve their health in any way they can while still staying safe inside. Here are some of the benefits of sunlight that people are trying to reproduce in other products and strategies: 

• Enhanced mood
• More restful sleep 
• Stronger bones
• Stronger immune systems
• Weight loss 
• Gut health

Before scientific and technological advancement, sunlight was the only way to achieve these benefits and was, in fact, a necessity for our ancestors. However, we have now gathered the appropriate tools and resources to be able to recreate these health advantages in other natural products. Let’s dive into the top 5 ways to supplement exposure to sunlight: 

1. Vitamin D Supplements: Among other things, exposure to sunlight is great for getting vitamin D, which strengthens bone health and reduces your risk of heart disease. You can, however, supplement this with many vitamin D-rich foods and supplements. Make sure you talk to your health care provider before starting a supplement. 
2. Calcium Supplements: If you are worried about your bones and are spending more time inside, then you can always introduce more calcium into your diet. Milk, cheese, and other dairy products are high in calcium. Plus, you can take supplements that are approved by your health care provider. 
3. Blue Light Protection: When you spend more time inside, you lose out on the benefits of natural light for your circadian rhythm. This can be confused with artificial light from your computer, phone, tablet, and TV. All of these devices also emit blue light, which can affect the production of melatonin in your body. If you want to offset the increased artificial light, then you might want to invest in blue light blocking glasses to improve your sleep cycle.
4. Light Therapy: While a little bit of sunlight is good for your physical health, it can also have an impact on your mood. Many people report feeling sad, depressed, or anxious during long periods spent inside. In order to remedy this problem, many people are turning to phototherapy or bright light therapy. 
5. Infrared Sauna: Another way to supplement the sun’s natural tendency to help us relax and sleep better is to use a sauna! Infrared saunas, like the sun, allow us to sweat out toxins and relax our muscles when we become overstressed. Check out the best infrared sauna on the market to improve your body and mind.