Is Viewing the Sunrise Better than Adderall?

A very brief overview of why sunrise exposure offers brain benefits.

Photo by Elena Rabkina on Unsplash

Without getting too science-y…

The sun emits electromagnetic radiation (light) in varying forms (wavelengths).

When the sun rises and sets, it is at a very low solar angle.

This low solar angle scatters most of the lower-wavelength light, such as UV radiation, leaving mainly red visible light and a significant amount of infrared radiation (higher wavelengths).

There is a host of evidence-based benefits associated with exposing ourselves to red and infrared radiation, which are present in the ambient lighting of both sunrise and sunset.

Photo by Quino Al on Unsplash

Here are some of the benefits of viewing the sunrise and how it primes your system for optimal focus and cognition:

• Cortisol Awakening & Alertness — Sunrise exposure strengthens the natural cortisol awakening response. Instead of groggy mornings, you get a controlled cortisol pulse that primes the brain for alertness, memory encoding, and metabolic regulation.
• Circadian Rhythm Coherence — Viewing sunrise and sunset acts as timekeeper signals to the internal body clock. This helps our body clock sync with the solar clock, leading to circadian rhythm coherence. This relaxes the nervous system, supporting the usual cascade of physiological events that occur in the body — leading to optimal sleep, daytime alertness and everything in between.
• Neurovascular & Anti-Inflammatory Effects — Infrared light dilates blood vessels and reduces inflammatory signaling. In the brain, that translates into better oxygenation, nutrient delivery, and lower risk of neuroinflammation — a factor tied to anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline.
• Deep Penetration Into the Brain — Infrared at sunrise doesn’t just stop at the surface. Studies show near-infrared can penetrate skull tissue, spinal fluid, and brain matter itself. This photonic boost enhances neuronal mitochondrial efficiency, potentially improving mood regulation, learning, and long-term neuroprotection.
• Infrared Nourishment for Mitochondria — Low-angle sunlight is heavy in red and near-infrared wavelengths. These penetrate skin, muscle, and even clothing to reach mitochondria throughout the body. In neurons, cytochrome c oxidase (part of the electron transport chain) absorbs this light, improving ATP production, reducing oxidative stress, and supporting repair processes.

If you struggle with daytime focus and energy, getting your circadian rhythm straightened out and viewing sunrise will give you some nice executive function gains.

It’s also incredibly beautiful and is another way to stop and smell the roses.

Warm wishes, radiant sunrises and present moment awareness — Megan