The Sun has been worshipped by human beings since the dawn of civilisation. We evolved under its warmth and love. In Ancient Egypt, the sun was regarded as as the giver of life and the bringer of light. The Mayans and Aztecs lived by a solar calendar and designed observatories that aligned with the solstices. Agricultural societies depended on it for sustenance.
Today, we are bombarded with messages about the dangers of the sun and the need to protect ourselves from it at all costs. But, what if we've taken this advice too far and we're missing out on many of the profound healing effects that it offers as a result?
Previously, we discussed the crucial role that sunlight plays in setting our Circadian Rhythm so that our bodies function optimally. However, it is not just the frequencies and rhythms of the sun that affect us. This week, we're going to talk about some of the myths and misconceptions surrounding sunlight and discuss the array of health benefits that are available to us by embracing the sun in a safe and mindful way.
Prior to the advent of antibiotics, sunlight was one of the most prescribed and most effective treatments for a range of illnesses, including skin diseases, tuberculosis, and mood disorders. 'Heliotherapy' (literally, Sun Therapy) has roots in Ancient Egypt, India, Greece, China, Babylon, and Assyria. Fast forward to today and light therapy is still utilised in Western Medicine as a treatment in the fields in dermatology, immunology, neurology and psychiatry.
The scientific community has become increasingly interested in the benefits of light therapy. There are currently thousands of studies exploring the potential of infrared light to assist a range of conditions, from chronic pain and inflammation, to cardiovascular health and Parkinsons disease. More and more companies are developing personal devices that simulate the sun's light frequencies to bring this "technology" into our homes and make it more easily accessible. But what if we could get many of the same benefits for free, just by stepping outside at the right time of day?
The sun emits its energy in the form of red and infrared light, visible light (red through violet), and ultraviolet light. Each frequency has its own therapeutic properties. All of life on Earth has adapated to use every part of the light that is available to accomplish something. It is the driving force behind all processes on our planet. Plants cannot thrive without sunlight, and neither can we.
Red and Infrared Light
improves cellular function and energy generation
triggers healing, reduces inflammation, relieves pain and stimulates tissue regeneration
UV Light
produces Vitamin D in the skin
triggers the release of endorphins and endocannabinoids
Visible Light
sets the body's Circadian Rhythm
triggers the production of hormones and neurotransmitters
Benefits of sensible sun exposure:
May ease Parkinsons symptoms
Support bone health
Improve Cognitive function (so may be helpful for Alzheimers sufferers)
Assist eczema and psoriasis
Stimulate immune function and helps kill off viruses and bacteria
Help anxiety, depression and PTSD
Increase energy
Reduce insomnia
Reduce risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and autoimmune conditions
So, what is 'sensible' sun exposure?
Consistent small daily doses. Depending on your skin tone, this may be just a few minutes early in the morning to begin with. (UV Light is less intense earlier and later in the day).
Remember that intermittently exposing ourselves to the sun is when we do the most damage (eg. working indoors every day and then spending hours at the beach in the middle of the day, on your Summer holiday).
Be mindful NOT to burn - know your skin type and its limitations and protect it accordingly.
Once your skin has reached its capacity, cover up, seek shade, or use a natural zinc oxide sunscreen to protect yourself.
Morning sunlight exposure helps to pre-condition your skin for the UV light it will be exposed to later in the day. If you will be outdoors during peak UV hours, try and get out in the earlier hours to help prepare your skin.
Though it may sound counter-intutive, the light frequencies emitted during sunset actually help to soothe and heal damage to your skin from overexposure to UV light during the day. Watching the sunset isn't just good for your soul!
If you've overdone it and are feeling the effects of too much sun, try one of our Topical Treatments. Our skin is covered with cannabinoid receptors. When topicals are used, the active compounds in the cannabis plant are absorbed through the skin to enhance and support our body’s endocannabinoid system. Because CBD and THC are both anti-inflammatory, they can be extremely soothing for irritated skin. We recommend CANNANUTRIENTS Skin & Circulation Body Oil. This 100% natural body oil is infused with whole plant herbal extracts and other botanicals that assist with calming and rejuvenating dry, damaged skin.
To give your skin some extra protection on a daily basis, we recommend UBUNTU Skin Food. This general purpose cream contains organic zinc oxide which provides a natural sun barrier, along with whole plant herbal extracts, cocoa butter, and essential oils to moisturise, tone and soothe your skin.
And last but not least, any act that supports our well-being journey, is an act of self love, therefore adding the intention that you are doing the above mentioned actions to enhance your well-being will do exactly that.