June 21st is set as the official beginning of Summer! The Summer Solstice (aka the longest day of the year), marks the astronomical first day of Summer in the northern hemisphere as the sun makes it’s way across it’s highest point in the sky. In 2026, this yearly event is set to occur at 4:24 a.m. EDT.
N Crowd, this means brighter mornings and even longer sunlight hours. I am so excited to finally stop waking up in the dark! Studies from the National Center for Biotechnology Information show that waking to direct sunlight is linked to better sleep outcomes, greater quality of sleep, and longer sleep duration. This is because your body is regulated by a light-dark schedule which promotes a naturally occurring circadian rhythm. Here are some ways you can incorporate sunlight into your morning routine! With the sun rising close to 4 a.m., be sure to wake early and take advantage of these long summer days.
Sunlit Wellness Ideas and Routines
- Open Those Blinds: I know it can be hard to wake up when your comfy in your cave, but summer is here! If you are someone who has a hard time waking up in the morning I would try sleeping with your blinds open or only partially closed. Waking up to direct and naturally occurring sunlight tells the body it is time to be awake! Bask in that morning glow N Crowd.
- Try an Outdoor Walk or Exercise Routine: Many creators share that their favorite way to decrease stress is with an outdoor exercise routine. This is a multi-benefit activity to incorporate into your morning that keeps your mind and body connected to it’s natural waking cycle. I like this no equipment needed routine by @lindsarnold on TikTok.
- Bright Breakfast: It doesn’t matter if your a lone coffee drinker or you enjoy a breakfast spread to start your day (I am both). Experts recommend to use this time to sit in front of a window or find a spot outdoors! Breakfast is usually an essential part to the morning, so why not increase your benefits by catching some rays? This is built in time, that if implemented, guarantees you some sun.
- No Phone: Many don’t realize that immediate phone exposure can take away the benefits of direct sunlight in the morning! Your brain releases natural dopamine while in sunlight. While a phone triggers an artificial release. This hooks your body into a cycle of needing instant gratification (aka phone addiction!).
These easy to do Summer wellness activities are a great way to elevate your morning routine. Be sure to check out Just N Life’s Your Morning Routine Doesn’t Matter: De-influencing Toxic Productivity.
Let’s kick off Summer in our wellness era, N Crowd!
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