We live in a modern world that is bombarded with paranoid messages about how dangerous the sun is. We should remember that the ancient yogis and many other cultures knew how to use the sun to heal all kinds of illnesses, and bring about radiant health.
Here are 10 benefits of getting a moderate amount of sun exposure:
1. Sunlight can build strong bones. Exposure to the ultraviolet-B radiation in the sun’s rays causes a person’s skin to create vitamin D
2. Sunlight can prevent cancer. Although excess sunlight can contribute to skin cancers, a moderate amount of sunlight actually has preventive benefits when it comes to cancer. Those who live in areas with fewer daylight hours are more likely to have some specific cancers than those who live where there’s more sun during the day.
3. Sun exposure sets circadian rhythm. So your body’s key way of telling the time of day will depend on how much light your eyes receive at certain times of the day. Studies show that having a good circadian rhythm is important for your heath and for regulation of sleep- wake cycles, hormone release, body temperature and other important bodily functions.Getting enough sunlight during the daytime is essential for good sleep.
4. Sunlight lowers cholesterol. The sun converts high cholesterol in the blood into steroid hormones and the sex hormones we need for reproduction. In the absence of sunlight, the opposite happens; substances convert to cholesterol.
5. The sun’s rays, lower blood pressure. Even a single exposure significantly lowers blood pressure in individuals with high blood pressure. On the other hand, pharmaceutical drugs such as Statins have side effects, such as robbing the body of Coenzyme Q10. CoQ10 is essential for cellular and heart energy.
6.Sunlight has a beneficial effect on skin disorders, such as psoriasis, acne, eczema and fungal infections of the skin.
7. Sunlight increases oxygen content in human blood. And, it also enhances the body’s capacity to deliver oxygen to the tissues; very similar to the effects of exercise. The sun has a great effect on stamina, fitness and muscular development.
8. Sunlight builds the immune system. The white blood cells, which increase with sun exposure, are called lymphocytes, and these play a major role in defending the body against infections.
9. Regular sunlight exposure increases the growth and height of children, especially babies. Many cultures throughout history have recognised this fact. Studies have shown the amount of sun exposure in the first few months has an effect on how tall the person grows.
10. Sunlight can cure depression. When we sit in offices for the best part of the day, out of the sun, under neon and artificial lights, we are depriving ourselves of the illumination of nature. Sunlight deprivation can cause a condition called seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of depression. It is more common in winter months, but also common in people who work long hours in office buildings.
We evolved as a human race for millions of years under the warmth and love of the sun. Perhaps drenching ourselves in sunscreen from head to toe is not the answer. Exposure to the sun should be done SLOWLY! If you are not used to the sun, then your skin will be more sensitive to it. Avoid sunburn by building up your tolerance SLOWLY.