The sun is shining, campus is buzzing and students âÄî including myself âÄî are studying on Northrop Mall, soaking in as much sun as they can between classes. This, my friends, can mean only one thing âÄî spring is finally here.
While thinking about spring and everything that comes with it, I can say that I have felt nothing but warm and fuzzy, smiling under each drop of sunshine. This is not because I know summer is around the corner or because I can finally toss my winter boots to the back of the closet, but because of the health benefits that I know I am getting when soaking up the sun.
Ninety-five percent of the circulation of vitamin D in our bodies comes from being in the sun. While sitting on the lawn of the mall the other day watching Goldy goof off with students, I began to think of all the benefits I would reap if I continued to procrastinate and enjoy the sunlight. I then Googled the benefits of vitamin D, and I was doing myself much more good than I realized. For instance, vitamin D helps to lower blood cholesterol levels and can even help prevent certain types of cancer. I no longer felt bad for not doing any homework in the library.
Sunshine also stimulates the production of serotonin. Seasonal Affective Disorder  is often the result of low serotonin levels in the brain and is common among many during the somber winter months that we are very familiar with. Now that the daylight hours last longer and the weather is getting warm enough to be able to get out and enjoy each day with friends, a happier outlook on life can be had. Perhaps finals will be easier to deal with now that I can study outside.
This spring, get out and enjoy the weather as much as you can. It is not only good for your studying, keeping up with your spring break tan and your social life, but it is also beneficial for your overall mentality and physiological health. Spring truly is the package deal.