Researchers from the University of Exeter have demonstrated that viewing stunning sunrises and sunsets can lift mood, marking a first in measuring how natural phenomena influence human well-being. The findings were reported in a peer-reviewed study in the Journal of Environmental Psychology.
While a large body of research links nature exposure to better mental health, many studies assess calm weather and clear skies, leaving gaps when weather shifts occur. That means the real effect of changing weather on how people feel remains less understood, especially in everyday life when skies may brighten, dim, or shift with the wind. The Exeter team aimed to fill this void by testing reactions to a broader range of scenes and conditions to see how people respond emotionally when the environment changes around them.
To probe these questions, the scientists invited more than 2,500 participants to view a collection of images depicting both urban settings and natural landscapes. The images were carefully crafted to include a variety of light phenomena, such as dawn and dusk, alongside previews of typical daily weather. Participants consistently rated scenes featuring sunrise or sunset as more visually pleasing and emotionally resonant than scenes displaying only clear, sunny weather or at other times of day, such as midday, as well as scenes featuring rainbows or starry skies. The research suggests that the aesthetic value of light and color at transitional times of day can enhance perceived beauty and mood, offering a measurable link between visual stimuli and emotional response.
Experts in psychology and mental health propose that guiding people to engage with sunrise and sunset experiences could become a simple, accessible component of nature-based approaches in clinical settings. In psychiatry and wellness programs, clinicians might incorporate structured exposure to natural light transitions as a complementary tool to support mood regulation, stress reduction, and overall emotional resilience. The practical takeaway points to a broader role for everyday nature experiences in mental health care, particularly as communities seek low-cost, scalable methods to improve well-being without relying solely on medication or intensive therapy.