Washburn students say sunshine makes a difference as days get longer

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - Washburn University students say they’re excited to put the long days of winter behind them.

“When I get off of work it’s usually dark,” Washburn student Grecia Carlos said. “So having it be more light, having more hours, I’m able to do more in the day. I’m able to enjoy my day more.”

“We’re at school so long so then whenever we come out and it’s, like, sunlight, it still makes you feel like you have a longer day to enjoy,” student Hope Bishop said.

Kansas State University psychologist Anne Weese says it isn’t their imagination.

“Connecting to the earth and nature and our friend — just that connection, community, activity and sunlight is a huge mood booster this time of year,” she said.

Weese says warmer weather and more sunlight can boost your mood — leading to more productivity.

“I think it’s just an indicator to our brain and bodies that we have more time left to do something with, we can be productive for longer,” Weese said.

Students also say being outside just makes them feel better in general.

“I’d say it feels pretty good,” student Dylan Shaffer said. “It’s a lot better than being stuck inside all day, every day. You can study outside, you can do whatever, really.”

“I’ve been struggling a lot, especially these past months,” Carlos said, And just having a day like this is amazing. I feel energized, I feel awake, I feel like I can do anything.“

Weese says she’s seen a similar effect at K-State, noticing more students taking advantage of outdoor spaces on campus in recent weeks.