As I was sitting at my desk with dark clouds and rain pouring outside the only topic that motivated me to write was the effects of sunshine on behavior. Where I live is still deciding whether or not to make the switch to summer and I recently found on article that discussed the effect of sun on our moods. The article revealed the following findings:
- We are nicer on sunny days. People pay others higher tips and are more willing to take surveys on sunny days.
- College admissions favor socially strong students on sunny days and academically strong students on cloudy days.
- The stock market is 3x’s more likely to go up on the days it is sunny in the city of the exchange.
- Lottery ticket sales increase on cloudy days because the poorer moods associated with bad weather decrease self-control and people are more willing to give into temptation.
- On cloudy days people consume more chocolate and comfort foods as an attempt to improve one’s mood.
To read the entire article click here
I love the sun! There is clearly substantial research that proves the benefits it has on our moods. Thus, I encourage anyone who is blessed with the sun today and the ability to read to go outside and read a book to give yourself a mood boost!