There’s just something magical about feeling the sun on my face. I am of the generation that spent far too much time in the sun without sun screen. Yes I know how damaging the sun can be and risks like sun cancer that can accompany sun exposure especially for a blond hair blue eye fair person (like me!). But - this time of year in Phoenix when the day is cool and the sun is warm - it feels like my bones are warmed from the outside in. It’s like a hug the way the sun warms your face.
I spend most of day inside sitting at a computer and sometimes have to remind myself to get up and take a break (ugg, this sounds pathetic!!). Medical experts have demonized sun to the point where people avoid it at all costs. Others argue that sun exposure helps with vitamin D production and that vitamin D is good. I haven’t read enough of the studies on this to weigh in on an opinion. So here’s what I recommend - unless you have a medical reason that warrants avoiding the sun - listen to your body. Here’s what I learn when I get a bit of sun exposure each day:
Deeper breaths - walking around outside gets me away from my desk, improves posture and I’m able to breathe more deeply.
Warmth to the bones - feeling the sun warms my body from the outside in.
Improved disposition - being outside on a sunny day reduces crankiness, irritability, and grouchiness (yes, I feel all of these at various times, LOL).
Better sleep - I know that when I spend a Saturday outside, I’m going to sleep like a baby that night. Partly related to physical work but also because I’ve been in the sun.
Increased optimism - I find that when I balance computer time with sun time, I’m better able to carry this optimism throughout the day. Part of this may be the sun exposure, part of this may also be related to line of sight. The further you see the greater your vision.
PS Wear sun screen and drink lots of water. Take care of yourself. I don’t wear hats because I’m not much of a hat wearer but I apply a sun screen daily and love my water - a necessity in the Phoenix desert!
Listen to your body! What list might you create for why your body likes the sun?