June 14, 2026: Summer Rhythms - Sunrises

Summer is upon us.

         Whether you are someone who marks summer’s arrival by Memorial Day Weekend, when the weather reaches the 80s, or when the school year wraps up, by this time we can all agree it is here.

         As a teacher, my summer days have an extremely different rhythm than my days from August through May.  Some significant differences, and some minor ones.

         One of the most interesting is that I get to see the sun rise.  I can witness the darkness of the night giving way to the dawning day. I do not see that Monday through Friday during the school year. I am, by choice, an extremely early riser, and I leave for school while it is still dark. My classroom is an interior room, so additionally, I have no windows through which to watch the sky lighten.

         So, during the summer months, part of my morning routine involves taking my coffee and my journal outside, sitting in the rocking chair, and watching the sun rise through the trees.  The chorus of birdsong that greets the day is an added bonus. While I enjoy and embrace this summer habit, it was just recently that I discovered that there are studies that support the benefits of just such a habit.

         According to PschCentral, there are 10 benefits of getting out into the early morning light that are supported by research.

-       Reduces Inflammation

-       Improves Mood

-       Promotes Healthy Circadian Rhythms

-       Reduces Stress

-       Time Away From Devices

-       Helps You Lose Weight

-       Restores Attention

-       Reduces Depression

-       Puts Like in Perspective

-       Contributes to a Healthy Routine

While I would continue my summer habit even if there were no scientific benefits, it is nice to know that are.