So today, we are going to soak up the sun!

The K.I.S.S. ~ Soak up the sun!

Now, this is the life! Lately, I have been walking every day a minimum of 3.33 miles. What I have noticed is how much my energy has changed along with my mood and sleeping patterns.

The key is that there’s nothing new here. But it’s refreshing to the mind, body, and spirit. We have to remember that taking care of our bodies is more than food and exercise.

God gave us day and night not just because it seems right with the world. But because it serves a purpose.

The Sunshine Vitamin

Vitamin D is often referred to as the sunshine vitamin. It plays a critical role in our wellbeing. Vitamin D is an essential nutrient. But what is magnificent about our body is that it can produce its own vitamin D with the help of ultraviolet B (UVB) rays from the sun.

Vitamin D can be found in fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified milk. But that’s not a lot of options. This is one reason why nearly 50% of Americans have a deficiency in Vitamin D. This should alarm you because vitamin D deficiency along with decreased sun exposure is linked to negative health outcomes.

As a reminder, Vitamin D is vital to bone health and normal immune function.

Circadian Rhythm for Mood and Sleep

Our bodies have natural rhythms that are light and dark sensitive. As light enters our eyes, a signal is sent to the brain that triggers thousands of physiological functions throughout the body including the release of hormones, as well as muscle, organ, and brain function. The sun helps to coordinate our body’s activities on a 24-hour cycle every day. This is called the circadian rhythm.

Your circadian rhythm is activated every morning when exposed to sunlight. The brain releases serotonin (a hormone that boosts your mood and creates a calm feeling). At night, Serotonin is converted to melatonin helping us to sleep more effectively.

Your mood and circadian rhythm are affected by how much or how little sun you receive.

Sunlight can also support mental wellness and happiness.

Find the Balance

Overexposure to the sun can lead to the burning of our skin. This is not good or healthy. So be wise when you are outside. Go earlier in the morning and not so late in the afternoon when the heat of the day is highest.

Be cautious not to get too wrapped up in your being perfect with your health. Simply be intentional!

Soak up the sun with a smile knowing that you are doing your mind, body, and spirit good. You will feel better. You will look better. And you will function better.

“Train for life. Love your journey!!!“