The Benefits of Sunshine

I spent several years in the dark. No, I wasn’t the victim of some abduction. I worked in the theater. As a wardrobe mistress for a traveling children’s theater company, I maintained the costumes for the company’s productions. My duties ranged from daily washing and mending costumes to quick changes during the show.

The backstage crew of a theater production all wear black so we blend in with the backstage area and don’t attract attention if we are ever seen by the audience during a performance. The theater is its own world, encapsulated, tightly blocking reality to create an entirely new world within the theater’s walls for the audience and those of us in the production. As wonderful as it is to escape into a performance, there is also so much energy in the real world around us.

One season while touring with a show we landed in Savannah, Georgia. The company was based out of Atlanta or Hot-lanta as many called it back in the 90s. In Georgia, it was sunny and hot during the summer and sunny overall the rest of the year. You just got used to the heat or you left the south.

Back to the theater, during this three-month run of this show, you start to crave daylight. When we traveled we did two shows a day. So we spent a lot of time in the dark backstage with flashlights. However, while we were in Savannah, the crew took a short drive to Tybee Island and lounged on the beach. I marveled at how after a few hours and a sunburn later I felt so much better. The show the next day was one of our best. Everyone was in top form. I realized how much I missed the sunshine and how much I needed it to be my best.

Most of us spend most of our days inside away from natural light. But the sun’s rays are integral to us functioning at peak performance. There are many adverse health conditions linked to a lack of sunshine. Studies show that sunshine has a positive impact on mental health and overall well-being. Here’s why you need a daily dose of sunshine and how to get it. 

Photo by Rachel Claire 

Let the Sunshine In: Brighten Your Day the Healthy Way!

1. Vitamin D Delight: Say hello to your body’s best friend – Vitamin D! This little gem is essential in aiding the body’s intake of calcium for strong bones, a tip-top immune system, and keeping your brain and nervous system ticking along nicely. Plus, it’s a superhero when it comes to managing diabetes and keeping your heart and lungs in top form. But here’s the kicker: many of us aren’t getting enough, especially during those long, dark winter months.

While vitamin D can be taken orally, it’s preferable to obtain it directly from sunlight exposure.

2. Mood-Boosting Magic: Feeling a bit blue? The sun’s got your back! Basking in its glow triggers the release of serotonin – the happy hormone – in your brain. It’s like a natural mood-lifter, helping you stay calm, focused, and ready to take on the day. No wonder we feel a bit down when winter rolls around and the sun hides away!

3. Better Sleep: The body’s internal clock, or circadian rhythm, is regulated when surrounded by natural light, especially in the morning. Better sleep patterns and higher-quality sleep in general may result from this. Who wouldn’t want to feel more rested when they wake up? Put Money Into Skin Health: Sun exposure in moderation can be good for the skin. It can aid in the treatment of eczema, acne, and psoriasis. But too much sun exposure can cause sunburn and raise your risk of developing skin cancer, so you should use sunscreen and take protective measures.

4. Enhanced Immune System: As a result of its production in reaction to sunlight, vitamin D aids in the upkeep of the immune system. It may lower the chance of developing certain autoimmune conditions and aid the body in fighting off infections.

5. Bone Health: To absorb calcium, which is necessary to keep strong and healthy bones, vitamin D is crucial. Vitamin D deficiency can cause disorders such as osteoporosis.

6. Cancer Prevention: Research in this area is still lacking, but some studies indicate that exposure to sunlight and sufficient vitamin D levels may lower the risk of some types of cancer.

7. Cardiovascular Health: By lowering the risk of heart disease and enhancing blood pressure regulation, vitamin D may benefit heart health, according to some evidence.

8. Weight Management: Studies suggest that vitamin D may help with weight control and lower the chance of obesity.

9. Eye Health: Children who are exposed to sunlight, especially natural sunlight, are at a lower risk of developing nearsightedness, or myopia. For the sake of your eyes, remember to have routine eye exams.

3. Sunlight Solutions: So, how do you make sure you’re getting your daily dose of sunshine, especially when life keeps you indoors or winter clouds are in full force? Here are some friendly tips:

• Prioritize Sun Time: Treat your outdoor moments like precious appointments – schedule them in and stick to them!
• Lunchtime Lounging: Swap the office canteen for an alfresco lunch or take a quick stroll to soak up some rays midday.
• Brighten Your Workspace: If you can swing it, set up your workspace near a window to let that natural light flood in.
• Morning Move & Groove: Kickstart your day with some outdoor exercise at sunrise. Jogging, yoga, or even a brisk walk – they all get your body moving and expose you to that sweet, sweet sunlight.
• Light Therapy Love: Can’t get enough sun naturally? No worries! Light therapy boxes are like little slices of sunshine you can bring indoors, perfect for those cloudy days or when life keeps you indoors.

But Remember: While sunshine is a friend, too much of a good thing can be risky. Despite all of the health benefits of sunshine, it’s crucial to enjoy it in moderation and take precautions to prevent overexposure. Extended and unprotected exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can cause sunburn, signs of premature aging of the skin, and raise the risk of developing skin cancer.

Protect your skin with sunscreen, especially during extended outdoor stays or even on cloudy days – those sneaky UV rays can still reach you! Wear protective clothing, and sunglasses to maximize the benefits of sunshine and minimize risks. You should also try to avoid spending too much time in the sun during peak UV hours.

Ah, the sun – that golden orb in the sky isn’t just there to light up our days; it’s a powerhouse of health benefits too! If you don’t get much sun where you live, you can supplement or include more Vitamin D in your diet. Always consult a doctor when starting or changing anything related to healthcare.

So, let’s raise a toast to the sun – our ultimate source of health and happiness. Here’s to brighter days ahead, filled with sunshine and smiles! 🌞

A little fun trivia: If you enjoy reading and like fun connections check out the book “Sunshine” by Robin McKinley.