Sunlight plays an important part of general health and wellbeing and exposure to sunlight causes the brain to release serotonin, also known as the ‘happy hormone’ as it is known to improve mood.

When your skin is exposed to the sun, it will produce vitamin D which helps the body to absorb minerals, calcium and phosphorus (found in food). These minerals play a really important role to help maintain bone health, skeletal growth and other functions of the body. Although Vitamin D is found in food, the amount you get is actually limited and the body can only store small amounts so it needs to be topped up with sunlight. Some people may have a vitamin D deficiency which could lead to bones becoming soft and weak, leading to pain in the bones and muscle weakness.

It is advised that people should get exposure to the sun at least 2-3 times per week during the summer months but this will depend on two factors: skin type and age. Having short and frequent periods of exposure during the day is better than being in the sun for long periods at a time.