Sunlight is the source of all life on earth. We too thrive in natural light and the sun’s life-giving energy lifts our physical and emotional vitality while improving our well being and health.
Our friend the sun
We’re always hearing how we should avoid too much sun. But, it is actually a vital element in both physical and emotional health. A lack of adequate natural sun light compromises immunity and skeletal health and can interfere with natural sleeping patterns. Various studies have shown the link between insufficient natural light and depression during winter when natural light levels are low. In fact, insufficient sunlight rather than too much is the greater contributor to ill health in our modern, indoor lifestyles.
Boost immunity
The sun has a broad immune-boosting effect. It stimulates our pituitary gland - the master switch of our endocrine system. This produces hormones which determine the strength and speed of our body’s immune responses. Vitamin D, made by our body in response to sun exposure, helps white blood cells and the cells lining our respiratory tract fight off bacteria. And vitamin D also causes immune cells to migrate to the skin where they directly fight free-radical damage.
Beat depression and insomnia
Our pineal gland controls our sleep/wake cycles by secreting the hormone melatonin which stimulates our body to sleep. Many people need more sleep and are prone to depression especially during the winter because of increased melatonin production. Sunlight keeps us awake by inhibiting melatonin production and sun exposure during the day helps reset our body clock enabling a good night’s sleep.
Boost energy
Better sleep and a sunny day naturally enhance energy levels. For the same reasons people tend to sleep more in winter – increased melatonin - lack of sunlight makes us drowsy throughout. A walk in the park at sunrise helps wake us up and get our day off to a good start. Even on a cloudy day, this natural light will give most of us the boost we need.
Protect your skin
In addition to helping fight free-radical damage, sun exposure also stimulates the production of melanin - the brown pigment in our skin. Studies show that this pigment protects against skin cancer. Even people with fair skin can benefit if they build up pigmentation slowly over time.
Strengthen bones
Vitamin D is also needed for bone health. It stimulates and enhances absorption of calcium from our diet into our bones. Sunscreen blocks the synthesis of vitamin D and thus the benefits of natural light in addition to exposing our skin to toxic chemicals included in many commercial products.
Restore with sunlight
The sun’s warming rays aid recovery from stress and exertion. The warmth of healing sunlight deeply penetrates our skin, stimulating recuperative activities in our body including tissue repair, hormone synthesis and nutrient absorption. This also contributes to improved immunity and increased energy.
Take advantage of sunlight, but be smart about it. Avoid the mid-day heat and sunlight to reduce the chances of skin damage due to sunburn. Get outdoors before 9 or after 4 to enjoy the benefits while minimizing the harmful effects of too much sun.
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