Monday, July 15, 2013


Sunshine is our friend.  It is the catalyst to health and wellness and the best natural source of Vitamin D.  We all know what can happen if we spend too much time in the sun, but are you aware of what can happen if you don't get enough?  Do you of the wonderful benefits of the sun?

Let the sun SHINE in

In our recent history, we have been taught to shun or stay away from the sun.  For thousands of years however, our ancestors worked, exposed daily, in the sun for hours, and our ancient predecessors actually worshipped the sun, never suffering from the sun-based ailments we suffer from today. So what happened?  How did we transition from loving to fearing the sun?  It is simple, our diets changed.  When we ate diets heavy with whole fruits and vegetables, the sun was our friend,  the catalyst to health.  Now, as our diets are laden and clogged with processed and animal based foods, we have poor cell health and deficiencies which block our ability to naturally absorb the benefits provided by the sun.  We need to let the sun shine and thrive within us in the same manner as our ancestors, and as a few native cultures which continue to do so today.  We have to allow the sun to SHINE:

Sun   Helps  Initiate  Natural   Equilibrium

When we let our life SHINE, the Sun:

  • lowers cholesterol
  • improves sleep
  • provides natural protection against disease
  • promotes cell generation and growth
  • improves immune system
  • enhances well state of mind/mood and being
  • helps break down toxins

Vitamin D 

The best source of Vitamin D is the Sun.  Lack of Vitamin D can lead to cancer, however too much sun exposure is also a cancer source if you are not eating properly.   Early morning sun establishes calmness and peace, but does not produce Vitamin D.  Mid-day sun is optimum for Vitamin D absorption.  This is also when deadly UV rays are the highest point as well. Over exposure can lead to illness and dis-ease.  Daily, all you need to do is spend a solid 10-15 minutes in the mid-day sun to absorb Vitamin D.  So it's a balancing act to understand when and how to spend time in the sun to reduce your risk of cancer instead of increasing it.

In addition to increased risk of cancer, deficiencies in Vitamin D can contribute to many illnesses including diabetes, elevated blood pressure (hypertension), heart dis-ease, weakened bones (osteoporoses), and multiple sclerosis.

Watch the Sun Screen

Sun screen products block the harmful UV (ultraviolet) rays.  However, they also block the ability to absorb and produce natural vitamin D.  Remember, for healthy sun absorption, you only need 10-15 min per day, unless you are already suffering from a melonoma, let the sun block go for a few moments to initiate the Vitamin D and cell growth processes.

Sun Bathing

The purpose of sun bathing should not be for vanity. It is not about getting a "tan".   If done properly, sun bathing has great health benefits.  It contributes to clear skin, reduces risk of heart attacks, and high blood pressure.  The key is to do so responsibly.  Steps for safe and effective sun bathing are:

  • hydrate, hydrate hydrate
  • eat properly - reduce or eliminate animal and processed foods. A clean body will reduce risks of cancers and sunburn
  • bathe in the mid-day sun between 11am and 3pm when the sun's rays are at peak levels. 
Many argue this is the most dangerous times for sun exposure.  However, exposure times should be based upon consumption habits, health history, and skin tone.     The fairer your skin, initially, you need to spend the least amount of time, perhaps 2-3 min, the darker your skin, you can stay out a little longer.  Daily maximum times to spend in the sun varies for each person.  For some it is 15 minutes per day, while for others, a few hours. Regardless of where you begin, you can gradually increase your exposure safely by adding a minute or two per day.  Sunburn occurs only when time in the sun is not spent wisely, causing overexposure.

Sun Gazing

Sun gazing is the age-old act of staring directly into the sun.  For some it is spiritually based, while for
others, it is to increase energy levels.   The best time to sun gaze is different than that of sun bathing.  When sun gazing, it is best to do so before 11am or after 3pm when the rays are not at peak levels.  If not done properly or during high sun (mid-day), you run the risk of permanently damaging your eyes or causing blindness.  To sun gaze, stand barefoot or in a restful pose.  Look initially for 10 seconds, gradually increasing by 10 seconds each day for up to 1 hour.  Why do this? It is said that sun gazing promotes hormone growth by stimulating the pineal gland, increases production of serotonin and melatonin which are the body's natural endorphins that help us feel "good" or exhibit positive mood.  If you are interested, please research and seek the guidance of a practioner who can help facilitate the process safely to avoid detrimental results.

We are graced with the awesome powers of the Sun.  Accept its gifts with gratitude.  Spend a day in the sun.  Plan activities based upon optimum sun exposure times:
Morning: Sun-Salutation
Mid-Day:  Sun Bathing and Vitamin D absorption
Afternoon:  Sun Gazing

Enjoy the resulting euphoric mood and positivity.  Rejoice, bask, and SHINE!

Surya Namaskar - Sun Salutation

The purpose of the Sun Salutation is to honor the sun. Surya Namaskar means to bow to the sun).  It is a series of 12 asanas  practiced together in a flow which many use to start their day.  Surya Namaskar is traditionally practiced at sunrise, facing the sun.  It is sometimes practiced with recitation of mantras  for honoring the Sun, honoring nature and to obtain spiritual balance...a beautiful way to start each day.

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