Light is a living spirit, which comes from the sun and establishes a direct relationship with our own spirit. — Omraam Mikheal Aivanhov
Since the beginning there was light and light has been known since ancient times as a healer. Nothing can exist without it. Scientists such as Isaac Newton have investigated the dynamics of light because it affects what we see and how we feel.
The sun is our primary light source during the day and is necessary for the growth of plants, animals, and it is essential for our overall health and well-being. Just as we can suffer from malnutrition from not eating and drinking the right foods, we can also suffer without the proper amount of sun. Sunlight is the unspoken medicine that is a required component to a well-balanced lifestyle. It provides us with Vitamin D, which is essential for healthy bones and joints.
According to the national institute of arthritis at NIH, the body needs vitamin D to absorb calcium. Without enough vitamin D, one can’t form enough of the hormone calcitriol (known as the “active vitamin D”). This in turn leads to insufficient calcium absorption from the diet. In this situation, the body must take calcium from its stores in the skeleton, which weakens existing bone and prevents the formation of strong, new bone. You can get vitamin D in three ways: through the skin, from the diet, and from supplements.
They further suggest that the body forms Vitamin D naturally after exposure to sunlight and that fifteen minutes in the sun a few times a week without sunscreen is plenty for many people to manufacture and store all of the vitamin D they need. Experts recommend a daily intake of between 400 and 600 IU (International Units) of vitamin D, which also can be obtained from supplements or vitamin D-rich foods such as egg yolks, saltwater fish, liver, and fortified milk. The Institute of Medicine recommends no more than 2,000 IU per day. However, sometimes doctors prescribe higher doses for people who are deficient in vitamin D.
In addition to helping the bones and joints of individuals, sunlight has been known to boost immune systems, as well as, combat depression.
Seasonal affective disorder SAD or the winter blues can cause symptoms such as low sex drive and depression. Sunlight affects the hormone melatonin levels, which in turn may cause fluctuations in serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is the feel good hormone that we all crave. So when the weather warms up, take advantage of those healing rays.
Tips for taking advantage of sunny days:
- Walk outdoors
- Eat lunch outside
- Take your break outside
- Stretch outside on the deck
- Meditate outside
- Sit outdoors with your pets
- Read a book outside
*Always consult a doctor regarding supplementation and recommended SPF levels.
*For more information about the contributor: www.sandiee.com
Written by Sandiee
BIO: Sandiee has been both a scientist and a certified teacher. Her credits include both an AA and a BA degree in biology, as well as, extensive studies in both mathematics and chemistry, a masters degree in teaching, and she is currently working toward a doctorate in Holistic Health.
She also has earned two certificates in spirituality, health, and healing from the California Board of Registered Nursing and she is also a trained certified hospice family care giver through a chapter in Central New York.
Sandiee is an author. Her book Butterfly Soul is now available at www.sandiee.com.
Currently, Sandiee is pursuing a career in guiding people to embrace change and realize their purpose in life. For more information go to www.sandiee.com or send an email to: pr@sandiee.com; Many of the photographs used by Sandiee are by Mike Pulsifer can be found at this link: http://pulsifer.smugmug.com/
