What is a sun deck? Sun decks are a type of platform or balcony that is constructed to catch the rays of the sun. They are often surrounded by railings that help to prevent people from accidentally falling off the edge and help to keep them safe as they go about their day. Here are some health benefits of a relaxing sun deck if you are in your 50s.
Strengthen Immunity
If you are in your 50s, relaxing on a sun deck can strengthen your immune function. A study published in the Journal of Brain, Behavior, and Immunity indicated that spending time outdoors can have an impact on immunity. Researchers found that when people of all ages were exposed to natural light for about six hours, their immune cells worked at higher efficiency than usual. Natural light triggers certain hormones in the body, which reduce stress and help the body fight off infection. Here are some other tips to improve seniors’ immunity.
Enhances Relationships
How can you overcome the feeling of loneliness as a senior? If you are in your 50s, relaxing on a sun deck can enhance relationships. Research shows that the 50s are a time when people focus their energy on family, friends, and intimate relationships. The “empty nest” experience has recently begun to take on a new meaning with the number of adult children now staying at home longer in their early 20s. However, if you spend all your time socializing with a spouse or other close relatives, this can lead to arguments and fights over things like who should do the laundry or who should have brought more snacks to the party. This is where your sun deck comes into play. A well-maintained sun deck provides an escape from these mundane tasks and responsibilities. You can still maintain a close relationship with your partner by going for walks around the block or shopping for groceries together. But an afternoon spent lounging on a sun deck, watching birds swooping around in the trees above, or listening to the wind rustle through leaves is something that only you and your partner can share together. It’s a wonderful way to re-establish yourselves as individuals while also maintaining your connection.
Improves Sleep
When you’re in your 50s, it’s easy to feel the cumulative effects of a lifetime of stress and anxiety. And while getting in a workout at the gym is better than ignoring your stress, there are also great benefits to taking time out of your day to do something relaxing—and you don’t have to be on vacation to enjoy them! A recent study found that time spent under the sun can have positive effects on your sleep and general health. Researchers divided participants into two groups: one that spent time under the sun and one that stayed indoors. Participants who spent time out in the sun showed an increase in their skin’s ability to generate vitamin D and had increased levels of melatonin in their blood—a decrease in cortisol, lowered heart rate and blood pressure, and improved mood compared with those who spent the same amount of time inside.
Spending some time relaxing on a sun deck can improve your mental and physical health, so give it a try today!
