Let’s be honest—waking up to a gray, rainy day just doesn’t hit the same as stepping outside into a world bathed in golden sunlight. The color yellow, the very essence of sunshine, has a way of lifting our spirits, making us feel warmer, happier, and dare I say—more alive! But why is that? Is it science? Is it magic? (Spoiler: It’s both.)

Yellow: The Instant Mood Booster

Yellow is the color of happiness, optimism, and energy. There’s a reason smiley faces aren’t blue. Studies show that exposure to bright light, particularly natural sunlight, boosts serotonin levels—aka, the brain’s "feel-good" chemical. Without enough light, our serotonin dips, and suddenly, everything feels a little harder. That’s why during those long, dark winters, some of us start resembling houseplants that haven’t been watered.

The Sunshine Effect on Our Mental Health

We need sunlight like we need good coffee—frequently and in large doses. Sunlight helps regulate our circadian rhythm, which in turn affects sleep, mood, and overall well-being. Too little sunshine? Cue the grumpiness, low energy, and maybe even seasonal depression. If you’ve ever wanted to hibernate like a bear from November to March, you’re not alone.

Check on Your Sunlight-Deprived Friends

Not everyone thrives in cloudy weather, so if you have friends who seem a little down when the days are short, check in on them. Remind them to step outside, soak in some rays, or invest in a good sun lamp (or at the very least, paint their walls a bright shade of yellow). A little extra sunshine—real or artificial—goes a long way.

Embracing the Light (Literally and Metaphorically)

So, let’s make an effort to seek out the sunshine, whether it’s in the sky, in the people we surround ourselves with, or in the things that bring us joy. Wear yellow, get outside, and remember: life is just better when it’s bright.

And if you know someone who might be running low on sunshine—send them this as a friendly reminder. Because everyone deserves a little more light in their life.

M&N