Sunshine, one of Don Tolman's seven principles of health, plays a vital role in our physical health and elevating our emotional state. Its warmth and brightness can lift our spirits and contributes significantly to our overall well-being.
Without sunlight, there would be no life on Earth. The sun gives life to plants, providing us with air to breathe and food to eat, forming the foundation of the food chain. Sunlight sustains life and helps maintain the intricate balance of our planet.
Sunlight is a rich source of the essential nutrient vitamin D, which can be hard to obtain from other sources. This vitamin is vital for various bodily functions, including bone health, immune support, muscle performance, and mood regulation.
During the winter months in northern countries, the lack of sunlight can lead to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression characterized by feelings of sadness and lethargy. Often referred to as the "dark ages," this period highlights the mental health challenges associated with prolonged darkness, including heightened rates of depression and suicide.
We need sunlight on our skin and the biophotons of light to reach our pupils, where they travel through the optic nerves to the visual cortex. This activation of the amygdala and pineal gland plays a crucial role in regulating our circadian rhythms and in producing molecules associated with happiness and joy.
Sungazing is an ancient practice that continues to be embraced today. It involves looking at the sun during specific times, particularly within the first hour after sunrise or the last hour before sunset. A common method is to use your fist as a guide: when the sun is at or below the level of your fist held at arm's length on the horizon, it is considered safe to gaze at it. However, once the sun rises higher than your fist, the UV rays become too intense, and it is no longer safe to look directly at it. Don Tolman famously used sungazing as part of his healing process after suffering a car accident that damaged his eyes, helping restore his vision and overall well-being.
Healthy, Safe Sun
Safe sun exposure varies for each individual. Lighter skin tones typically need less sun exposure to generate vitamin D, while darker skin tones require more due to increased melanin, which provides some protection against UV radiation.
Increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables is crucial. Whole foods are rich in antioxidants, which help protect the skin from sun damage. These nutrients combat oxidative stress caused by UV exposure, supporting overall skin health and enhancing your body’s ability to recover from sun exposure.
Choose commercial sunscreen wisely. If you decide to use a protective cream, opt for completely natural and organic options, like zinc oxide, which sits on top of the skin and provides a physical barrier against UV rays. Many sunscreens contain toxic chemicals that contribute to skin cancer and other health issues. These ingredients can disrupt hormones and may have other harmful effects, raising concerns about their long-term safety.
Have a hat handy when spending extended time in the sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. when UV rays are strongest.
It’s advisable to avoid sunglasses, as they can trick the brain into thinking it’s nighttime, which may hinder the body’s ability to produce essential hormones in response to sunlight.
Stay hydrated by drinking enough water—approximately 1 liter for every 22 kg of body weight—and increase your intake if you're exercising or sweating. Snacking on hydrating foods like melons can also support your hydration needs.
Finally, after sun exposure, apply a nourishing plant-based moisturizer like our handcrafted Divine Body Butter to rehydrate and replenish your skin, keeping it supple and healthy.
Enjoy your time in the Sunshine!
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