Wake the F*ck Up’s third “Arousal Hack” is called ‘Sun Gazing’.

The positive effects of sunlight on our biology is extensive and well-documented. In the words of the famous neurobiologist, Andrew Huberman:

“Viewing sunlight within the first hour of waking (as soon as you can, even if through cloud cover) increases early-day cortisol release (the ideal time for elevated cortisol) and prepares the body for sleep later that night. A morning spike in cortisol will also positively influence your immune system, metabolism and ability to focus during the day.

Further, morning sunlight helps regulate your circadian clock — the body’s mechanism for anticipating when to wake up and go to sleep — and it manages other biological processes like hunger and body temperature.”¹

So this is the protocol he suggests and the one Wake the F*ck Up adheres to:

“On a sunny morning, get outside for 5-10 minutes. You can do more if you have time, and feel free to use the time outside to exercise, walk, eat a light breakfast or journal in the sunlight.

Even on overcast days, there is still enough sunlight to trigger positive effects, but you’ll need to increase the time outside to at least 15-20 minutes. If it’s dark when you wake up or if the weather prevents you from going outside, flip on as many bright indoor artificial lights as possible — then get outside as soon as the sun is out.

Contacts and eyeglasses (even those with UV protection) are fine to wear when viewing morning sunlight. However, don’t use sunglasses or blue blockers during morning sunlight-viewing — you won’t get the maximum effects. Face toward the sun.

As always, never look directly at the sun or view the sun (or any light) in a way that causes pain; just close your eyes and blink as needed to protect your eyes.”¹

With this science in mind, it can be exceptionally powerful to practice Wake the F*ck Up outside with me (weather permitting, of course).

Watch the video below to learn how to practice ‘Sun Gazing’ correctly; otherwise, I’ll see you in the next hack.
– Ethan ॐ

P.S. As Dr. Huberman points out, trying to sun-gaze through a windshield or window won’t work, because too many of the necessary wavelengths are filtered out.

P.P.S. Supercharge your “Sun-Gazing” practice by doing it barefoot and standing in soil!

¹Source