ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Marylanders averaged just 25 hours outdoors this past winter, slightly above the national average of 24 hours and 36 minutes, according to a Sleep Junkie survey of 3,018 Americans. The findings, paired with expert insight, suggest that limited natural light exposure could affect health, prompting a call to get outside as spring extends daylight hours. The survey highlights a national split in outdoor habits, with implications for well-being.
Marylanders clocked 25 hours and 21 minutes outdoors over the winter—about 2 hours and 49 minutes weekly. Idahoans led the nation with 35 hours and 33 minutes, or nearly 4 hours per week, while Nebraskans trailed at 11 hours and 42 minutes total, just over an hour weekly. Nationally, two-thirds of respondents cited cold weather as the main barrier, a view shared by 60% of Marylanders. Sleep Junkie’s data, including state-by-state infographics, underscores how winter conditions shape outdoor time.
Dr. Stuart Peirson, speaking for Sleep Junkie, tied light exposure to health outcomes. “Our bodies are finely tuned to the natural rhythms of light and dark, possessing an internal circadian clock that is synchronized by light,” he said. “Exposure to natural outdoor light – even for just 30 minutes a day – is important to ensure the correct alignment of our circadian clock, which is essential for our sleep quality and overall health.” A U.K. study of 90,000 people, cited in the release, found those in bright daylight had a 17% to 34% lower risk of early death.
Marylanders’ survey responses revealed habits and attitudes. Cold weather kept 60% indoors, 17% blamed early darkness, and 11% pointed to work or school demands. Indoors, 80% sought well-lit areas, and 53% used vitamin D supplements. A striking 85% said they’d adjust routines if 30 daily minutes outdoors could lower mortality risk, while 88% reported feeling more energized with natural light. Yet, 73% logged more screentime than sunlight, and 36% felt Maryland lacks sufficient public spaces for winter activity.
The Chesapeake Bay region’s winter, with average highs near 45°F per the National Weather Service, aligns with these indoor tendencies. Americans spend 90% of their time indoors nationally, per the Environmental Protection Agency, raising concerns about circadian health. Maryland’s 25-hour average, though above the national mark, falls short of the daily light exposure Peirson recommends. With daylight saving time starting March 9, 2025, per timeanddate.com, spring offers a chance to shift habits.
The survey and expert commentary point to a simple fix: more time outside. As days lengthen, Marylanders have an opportunity to boost mood and health with natural light.
