How spending time in the sun can lift your mood

Did you know spending some time in the sun and fresh air doesn’t just boost your mood by chance? There’s a reason why we’re told to go and stretch our legs at work, take a breath of fresh air when we’re nervous, and sit in the sun to feel happier.

At Ye Olde Bell, we understand the reason behind these positive mood changes, which is why we’ve designed our spa and facilities around natural sunlight and the great outdoors to provide the best rejuvenating experiences for our guests. 

So, why is getting enough sunlight and fresh air so good for you?

First, the sciencey bit

We all know a sunny spell or two can instantly improve our mood and wellbeing, but did you know there are proven scientific facts that back up why this happens? It’s all to do with our hormones!

Exposure to natural sunlight increases our body’s production of serotonin, also known as the happy hormone. Similarly, dim light stimulates our body’s creation of melatonin, which helps us sleep at night.

In natural bright light, serotonin lifts our mood and makes us feel more focused, which is why natural lighting is so good in an office, study or workplace environment. Sunlight also increases our ability to feel calm, which is why at Ye Ole Bell our spa facilities such as our Stonebath, Herbal Laconium, and Alpine Sauna are filled with natural light.

Sabbia Med treatment at Ye Olde Bell

Speaking of relaxing spa treatments, our Sabbia Med is a truly unique luxury experience only available at Ye Olde Bell. It’s a spa treatment and beach getaway all in one. How could something be more perfect?

This is deeply relaxing and uplifting therapy room replicates a full day’s sun cycle in just 30 minutes, emitting low levels of UV throughout, which promotes healthy vitamin D production. Come the end of the session, you’ll feel utterly relaxed and pampered, just like you would on an actual beach holiday!

Outdoor pizza at Ye Olde Bell

As well as getting plenty of sunlight, surrounding yourself with fresh air is also great for your mood and wellbeing. Not only can fresh air aid your digestion, but it can also improve your blood pressure, clean your lungs, strengthen your immune system, and generally make you feel happier. And there are no rules when it comes to how you should embrace fresh air, even if it is while tucking into a delicious pizza!

 When it comes to the perfect meal to finish off your pamper day, it doesn’t get much better than a handmade pizza made in our outdoor pizza oven. As the days get longer and warmer, enjoy a pizza with your favourite toppings in our well-maintained hotel grounds, surrounded by lush green grass and fresh spring air - how can you say no to that?

Indoor/ outdoor pool

Ye Olde Bell has endless opportunities to spend time outside in the sun and fresh air. As well as our previously mentioned Sabbia Med treatment, there are plenty more spa facilities that will encourage serotonin production, focused relaxation, calmness, and overall positive wellbeing.

Our indoor/outdoor pool provides the perfect balance between freshness and warmth. Rejuvenate your senses with one of the many jets and water curtains in the 10-meter-long pool, packed with features such as indoor and outdoor recliners, mini air rub, and reflexology station.

Outdoor relaxation stations

Our passion at Ye Olde Bell is to ensure you feel relaxed from the moment you arrive. Even when you’re taking a break from our spa treatments and thermal experiences, there are plenty of spaces to relax and rejuvenate - maybe with a good book or a herbal infused tea from our Herb Garden Brassier. 

Even if you’re not a keen swimmer or just don’t fancy a dip, you can still make the most of our outdoor spaces and get plenty of fresh spring air! Cosy up in our rattan apple, alpine chalets, warm up in our heated loungers, or peacefully reflect in the silence of our salt inhalation room.

From couples spa breaks to treatment days and longer stays, you can be assured you will feel utterly at peace when you visit Ye Olde Bell. Your relaxation is our main priority which is why it is always at the forefront of everything we offer, including all our natural light and fresh air features. After all, science has proven the benefits, so why not come try it out for yourself?