Keywords: Sunsets, sunlight, serotonin, well-being, mindfulness
After experiencing a magical sunset last night and how it elevated my mood, I felt compelled to write a small piece on this subject. Mental well-being is vital to a healthier, more productive, and enriched life.
Phenomenal sunsets exhibit a breathtaking combination of colours because of light scattering. This occurs when golden rays strike air particles, thus changing the path of that light.
Sunlight, also known as white light, consists of all the rainbow colours.
White light has longer wavelengths (red, orange, yellow, and green). It also has shorter wavelengths (violet, indigo, and blue).
White light emitted from the sun travels through the atmosphere. The air is full of tiny gaseous particles such as oxygen and nitrogen.
The light with the shortest wavelength scatters the most. On a cloudless day, the sky appears blue at a specific geographical position.
The light with the longest wavelength gets to travel further through the atmosphere. It delivers a beautiful canvas of deep red, bright orange, and cotton candy pink skies at another site.
In many civilisations, the sunset’s vibrant colours are a source of inspiration to many. These include painters, poets, and writers.
The practice of mindfulness and appreciation for an unforgettable sunset are positive experiences. These can help clear the mind and soul from everyday trials and tribulations.
When direct sunlight enters the eye, it stimulates the pineal gland. This gland, located in the brain, releases the feel-good hormone serotonin.
A sunset enthusiast will find contentment, gratitude, and peace. After all, life’s small things, such as an unforgettable sunset, are the best!