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There’s nothing quite like stepping outside and soaking in the sun. Just a few moments of sunshine can help lift your spirits and brighten your day.
Now, a social media trend called “Sunflower Time” is encouraging people to do just that, Bustle reports. This practice is helping people pause their busy lives, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the present moment.
The Sunflower Time TikTok Trend
The trend is simple: stand in the sun — like a sunflower, and soak in the sun.
In a TikTok video that captured over 600,000 views, creator @aubzwags steps outside during her work break. A message appears on-screen: “Does anyone else have to get up mid-workday to go outside and sunflower themselves like a sad little houseplant just trying to stay alive, or is that just me?” She stands still with her eyes closed and basks in the sun. It's a peaceful alternative to eating lunch at her desk or going for a walk.
People across the internet related to her experience. One person commented, “Yesssss. My office is a cave. This is so real.” Another responded, “Used to do this when I worked at the library on my break every day. At first my coworkers would come outside and ask if I was OK. Eventually they accepted it, and started joining in.”
TikToker @vicinailbar was also inspired by the trend. In her own TikTok video, she wrote, “I saw a creator ‘sunflowering’ outside and I absolutely loved the idea! I am extremely impacted by sunlight and the amount I get in a day.”
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The Benefits of Sunflower Time
Aside from the sunny imagery, the trend offers a variety of benefits. Dr. Hannah Holmes, a licensed psychologist, tells Bustle that many don’t take their lunch breaks and end up spending the whole day indoors. “Many of us have busy schedules, and taking time to step away from work or other obligations to spend some time outside can drop to the bottom of the priority list,” Holmes says.
But lost sunlight matters. A lack of sun exposure can lead to a bad mood, lack of energy, and sleep problems, due to its role in the circadian rhythm. “This is part of why some people especially struggle with depression or anxiety during colder times of year with shorter periods of sunlight,” she adds.
Sunlight stimulates the brain to produce the neurotransmitter serotonin, which boosts the mood, according to yahoo!life. "Serotonin is often referred to as the 'feel-good' chemical because higher levels of it are linked to feelings of happiness and wellbeing, so our mood can feel lifted just by being in the sun," Ruth Kudzi, psychologist and neuroscience expert, tells yahoo!life.
However, sunflower time also provides another benefit — a moment of presence, according to Bustle. “You are taking a few moments to yourself to simply ‘be,’” says Holmes. “This is a beautiful opportunity for mindfully enjoying the moment, which can reduce stress and reset your focus so you can return to the day feeling recharged.”
So how long should you sunflower? Holmes recommends five minutes, if possible. You can also participate in the trend at a variety of times, including in the morning when you wake up, in the middle of the work day, or on the weekends. One thing to keep in mind is to stay safe from the sun. You can do this through wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. So grab your protective gear and let the sunshine in — for a powerful reset.
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