Sunlight!

nature's golden elixir!

Our bodies thrive on sunlight for several important reasons:

  • Vitamin D & Immunity Boost

    Sunlight is our main source of vitamin D, a superstar nutrient that's crucial for strong bones, a healthy immune system, and overall well-being. When UVB rays hit our skin, they trigger the production of vitamin D, helping keep our bodies in tip-top shape.

  • Mood Enhancement

    Ever notice how a sunny day can instantly lift your spirits? That's because sunlight stimulates the production of serotonin, a feel-good neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood. Soaking up those rays can chase away the blues and leave you feeling happier and more relaxed.

  • Improved sleep

    Sunlight plays a key role in regulating our circadian rhythm, or internal clock. Exposure to natural light during the day helps synchronize our sleep-wake cycle, making it easier to fall asleep at night and wake up feeling refreshed in the morning!

  • Healthy skin

    While too much sun can be harmful, moderate sun exposure is actually good for your skin. Sunlight stimulates the production of vitamin D and helps your body synthesize other skin-friendly compounds.

  • Increased Alertness

    Sunlight can help sharpen your focus and boost your alertness, making you feel more awake and ready to tackle whatever the day throws your way.

Important reminder!

Excessive exposure to sunlight, particularly its ultraviolet (UV) radiation, is the primary cause of skin cancer. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), overexposure to UV radiation from the sun or artificial sources (such as tanning beds) is the leading cause of skin cancer, including deadly melanoma.

Now, when it comes to soaking up those sunny vibes, here's how to do it safely:

Overall, sunshine isn't just good for the soul😎—it's essential for our physical and mental well-being. So, don't be shy about stepping outside and soaking up some rays (safely, of course)! Your body will thank you for it.

Now that we know why we need it and how to be safe, let’s have some fun!

Here are a few tips for adding regular outdoor time and sunlight exposure into your daily routine!

  • Start your day with a splash of sunshine! Take advantage of the cooler morning hours for outdoor play, whether it's a walk around the neighborhood, a trip to the park, or some backyard fun. It's the perfect way to kick-start your day with a healthy dose of vitamin D and fresh air.

  • Trampoline!

    My son was gifted a trampoline by his grandparents for his birthday last year, and it has truly been one of the best presents we've ever received. If you have boys (I have 2 😅), you understand the need for them to play and release their energy. A trampoline is the perfect solution for that. I appreciate being able to prepare their meals while they are enjoying themselves on the trampoline, all while being able to keep an eye on them through my kitchen window.

    Winning!

    Here are a couple great choices if your looking into getting one:

    We even have a small rebounder for indoor fun on rainy days!

    > EXPLORE MORE HERE<

What about the winter blues?

So, you find yourself in a place where winter seems to stretch on forever or sunlight is as rare as a unicorn sighting? Don't worry, there are still plenty of ways to take care of your body's sunshine needs:

  • Since sunlight might be in short supply, consider adding vitamin D-rich foods to your diet. Think fortified dairy products, fatty fish like salmon and tuna, eggs, and fortified cereals. You can also talk to your doctor about taking a vitamin D3 supplement to help meet your needs.

  • Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, is a fantastic option for those missing out on natural sunlight. Special light therapy lamps mimic the sun's rays, helping to regulate your body's internal clock, boost mood, and even improve sleep. Just 20-30 minutes a day can make a world of difference!

  • Don't let the winter blues keep you cooped up inside! Find fun indoor activities to keep you moving and grooving. Whether it's dancing to your favorite tunes, practicing yoga, or trying out a new workout routine, staying active can help lift your spirits and keep your body happy.

  • When the sun does make an appearance, make the most of it! Open up those curtains, position yourself near windows, and soak up as much sunlight as you can. Even a little bit of sunshine can go a long way in boosting your mood and energy levels.

  • Create a warm and inviting atmosphere indoors. Light candles, snuggle up with a soft blanket, and enjoy hot cups of tea or cocoa with loved ones. Creating a cozy environment can help chase away the winter blues and make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

Remember, even when the sun isn't shining brightly, there are still plenty of ways to take care of your body and nourish your soul. So, embrace the season, stay active, and find joy in the little moments of sunshine, wherever you are!

All Works Cited: AAP. Home. (n.d.). https://www.aap.org/, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/ , The Skin Cancer Foundation official website. The Skin Cancer Foundation. (2024, May 23). https://www.skincancer.org/ , Source: Holick, M.F. (2004). Sunlight and vitamin D for bone health and prevention of autoimmune diseases, cancers, and cardiovascular disease. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 80(6 Suppl), 1678S-88S. https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/80.6.1678S, Lambert, G.W., Reid, C., Kaye, D.M., Jennings, G.L., & Esler, M.D. (2002). Effect of sunlight and season on serotonin turnover in the brain. The Lancet, 360(9348), 1840-2. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(02)11737-5 , Wright Jr, K.P., McHill, A.W., Birks, B.R., Griffin, B.R., Rusterholz, T., & Chinoy, E.D. (2013). Entrainment of the human circadian clock to the natural light-dark cycle. Current Biology, 23(16), 1554-8. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2013.06.039

All that playing in the sun needs

A quenching drink!