Sunlight is like champagne

Always take it if it’s offered, because in good amounts it invigorates and stimulates; but indulged to excess, it intoxicates and poisons.

The Power of Sunlight: A Dose of Nature’s Medicine

When the sun peeks out from behind the clouds, there’s a natural urge to step outside and bask in its warmth. And rightfully so! Sunlight, in just the right amounts, invigorates and stimulates, recharging our bodies and minds. But like all good things, moderation is key—while sunlight offers numerous health benefits, overexposure can intoxicate and harm.

The Importance of Vitamin D

Did you know that 70% of us are Vitamin D deficient? That’s because we spend most of our time indoors under artificial light, and when we’re outdoors, we’re often covered in SPF. While sunscreen is crucial to prevent overexposure, a small window of time without it allows our bodies to produce the Vitamin D we so desperately need.

Vitamin D really had its moment in the spotlight (pun intended) during the pandemic. Low levels were linked to poorer recovery from Covid-19, bringing attention to just how critical it is for our immune system. Adequate Vitamin D helps to ward off colds, flu, and other illnesses, keeping our bodies in top shape year-round.

Sunlight and Your Circadian Rhythm

But the magic of sunlight doesn’t stop at Vitamin D production. It also plays a vital role in regulating our circadian rhythms—our body’s natural internal clock. Sunlight helps moderate melatonin production, the hormone responsible for sleep. Exposure to sunlight in the morning signals our brain that it’s time to wake up and be alert, while as the day fades, melatonin rises, preparing our bodies for rest. Without sunlight, our circadian rhythms can get thrown off, leading to poor sleep, fatigue, and even mood disorders.

Balance Is Key

So here’s my advice: when the sun is out, take full advantage of it. Step outside, lift your face to the sky, and drink up those warm rays. Sunlight, in small doses, is a powerful ally for your health and well-being. Aim for 10-20 minutes of unprotected sun exposure, preferably in the morning or late afternoon when the rays are gentler. After that, it’s wise to apply SPF and protect yourself from the risks of overexposure. Remember, sunlight, when indulged to excess, can intoxicate and damage, but in moderation, it’s nature’s way of keeping us thriving.